A story of interconnectedness, I’m Afraid, Said the Leaf by Danielle Daniel and Matt James is a sweet, sweet reminder that we all need each other.

When a leaf is afraid, who will make them feel safe? When the bear is too hot, what will help them cool down? When a child is tired, who will help them drift off to sleep? Throughout the story, Danielle Daniel highlights interdependence among the animals, how we rely on others and our environment for the things that we need to thrive. 

I absolutely LOVE Danielle Daniel’s stories. She has a powerful way of showing readers how we are connected to each other and the land and reminding us of the importance of protecting the natural world in a way that does not preach or insist. She gently nudges readers through the images her words evoke and create.

I love how this story not only highlights the symbiosis in ecosystems but also provides readers with emotional language, showing how not only animals but also people have a multitude of different feelings and there can always be someone or something that can help comfort us. Social emotional learning is so important for young readers so anytime a picture book can highlight words and describe feelings it makes it that much more valuable on book shelves, especially in classrooms.

Matt James’ illustrations are incredible. More and more, illustrators are turning to digital illustration which is beautiful and offers a ton of options, however when an illustrator uses classic illustrating techniques, it really makes the story sing in a different way. Matt James’ acrylic paintings on Masonite are textural and lush, transporting readers outside into nature with the animals. I love how the paintings get down low, right to the ground giving readers different perspectives as well.