Ode to a
Mother Tree
One tiny seed. Two cedar sisters. A thousand years of life, loss and connection in an old-growth forest.
One tree. A thousand years. A living forest.
Ode to a Mother Tree is a richly illustrated story for all ages about the making of a giant Western red cedar. Told in haiku and original paintings, it follows one tree across fire, renewal, kinship, old growth, and the changing life of the forest.
Written by Jamie Bastedo and illustrated by James Savage, the book brings the hidden relationships of the forest into view while honouring both wonder and vulnerability.
Ask for it at your favourite bookstore.
Your local bookseller can order Ode to a Mother Tree. Ask for it by title or ISBN 978-1-55455-692-2.
Explore the art and how it was made.
A closer look at the paintings and their making. The online gallery will open soon.
Take me to the art →Readings, images, and conversation in three BC communities.
Join Jamie Bastedo and James Savage for events in Nelson, Prince George, and Smithers. Posters and details for each event are gathered on the Events page.
See upcoming events →