THE ECO-EDUCATORS
DO TREES HAVE MOTHERS? is a non-fiction book for children four to seven years old, written and illustrated by Charles Bongers, cb + co. founder. Published by Douglas & McIntyre/Vancouver, Do Trees Have Mothers? has been selected by Indigo Books as an exclusive Heather’s Kids’ Pick and is continuously ranked in the top three Nature books at indigo.ca STEM/nature. Inspired by the science of trees, the intention of this book is to connect young children to nature.
DESIGN CHALLENGE: To create an educational “community hub ”website for Do Trees Have Mothers? where parents, teachers and retailers access science references about the tree community, fun forest activities and facts for the classroom and at-home, industry and school visit teacher reviews, and more information about the book.
CONNECTING KIDS TO NATURE I THE BOOK
Narrated by “Nuts” the silly squirrel and based on the science of the tree community, Charles wrote and illustrated Do Trees Have Mothers? to connect young children to nature and inspire our future forest custodians. As research tells us, the earlier a child is connected to the natural world, the more likely they will grow to respect and live within its wonder and calm.
REVIEWS
"This beautifully designed and illustrated picture book is a first introduction to how trees support one another, based on the science detailed in books like The Hidden Life of Trees and Finding the Mother Tree."
– Canadian Teacher
“This book will help a child to build a lifelong connection to nature by learning about the secret and tender life of trees and the magical web of life that surrounds and supports us.”
–Tara Zupancic, MPH, Public Health Scientist
A LETTER FROM KENSINGTON PALACE
Do Trees Have Mothers? – A Children’s Book About Nature, Connection, and Wonder
Written and illustrated by Charles Bongers, Do Trees Have Mothers? is a heartwarming children’s book that introduces young readers to the science of tree communication and forest ecology through a story of curiosity and connection.
We developed the full book design, illustration style, and publishing-ready layout through CB&Co, crafting a visual and emotional experience that brings environmental science to life in a playful, age-appropriate way.
This whimsical and eco-conscious book was selected as a Heather’s Pick at Indigo and is beloved by families, educators, and environmental organizations across Canada.
Project Scope:
-
Authoring and full manuscript development
-
Children’s book illustration and character design
-
Cover design and page layout
-
Branding and marketing materials
-
Publishing consultation and sales support
A perfect example of how strategic design and storytelling can inspire environmental literacy from a young age.
CB&Co helps authors, educators, and publishers bring purpose-driven children’s books to life—especially those focused on nature, sustainability, and emotional intelligence.