The Tree In Me by Corinna Luyken: Picture Book with Gorgeous Watercolor Illustrations

Genre: Picture Book

Author and Illustrator: Corinna Luyken

Recommended Ages: 4-8

Intended audience: pictures: grades pre-K - 3rd grade

Deeper meaning: grades 3rd - 5th

Illustrations: The Tree In Me, by Corinna Luyken is a picture book with gorgeous watercolor illustrations. Drawings done with ink, watercolor and colored pencil with layered textures. The illustrations are breathtaking. You can feel the peace of nature in these illustrations.

Summary: The Tree in Me is a poetic picture book that celebrates the strength and beauty that live inside of everyone. The language is lyrical and the message is that people, just like trees, are part of nature and are capable of growth, kindness and resilience.

My thoughts: The pictures in this book are stunning. The language might be a bit deep for younger audiences. However, the pictures can stand on their own to have a discussion about how we are all a part of nature. This book will be perfect for discussions about inner strength, self esteem and other social emotional learning topics.

Classroom Integration:

Before Reading:

• What do you think it means to have a “tree in me”?

• Look at the cover — what do you notice about the colors and the child’s expression?

During Reading:

• What do you think the author means when she compares a person to a tree?

• How do the illustrations help you imagine what’s being described?

After Reading:

• What are the “roots” that help you grow?

• What does your “tree” look like inside — strong? colorful? full of ideas?

• How are people like trees? How are we connected to the earth and to one another?

• Language Arts:

  • Explore simile, metaphor, and imagery

  • Practice descriptive writing and poetry

  • Discuss point of view and theme

• Science:

  • Connect to lessons on ecosystems, plants, and interdependence

  • Observe and label real trees around the school

• Social–Emotional Learning (SEL):

  • Explore self-awareness, empathy, and interconnectedness

  • Encourage students to identify strengths and supports

• Art & Creativity:

  • Visualize internal emotions and identity through drawing or collage

  • Discuss color, shape, and symbolism in Luyken’s illustrations

    
    

Activity Type	Description	Skills/Standards
Art: “My Tree in Me” Self-Portrait	Students draw or paint a tree that represents themselves —branches for interests, roots for family or support, leaves for dreams.	Self-awareness, creative expression, social-emotional learning
Writing: Metaphor Poem	Have students write their own short poem beginning with “There is a tree in me that…”	Language arts: figurative language, imagery, vocabulary
Science Connection: Tree Study	Compare the parts of a real tree (roots, trunk, branches) to the parts of a person’s life. Discuss how each part helps the tree (and us) grow.	Life science: plant structure, observation
Mindfulness Moment	Lead a quiet reflection: “Imagine the tree inside you growing strong and calm.” Use it as a grounding or SEL activity.	Social-emotional learning: mindfulness, emotional regulation
Collaborative Display: “Our Classroom Forest”	Each student creates a “tree” on paper; combine them into a hallway or library display symbolizing community.	Community building, visual literacy