Who Will Rule the Trees? by Eric A. Kimmel and illustrated by Alette Straathof; Kar-Ben Publishing; © 2026; ISBN 9798765-663493; 24 pages; $19.99.
By Cailin Acosta in La Mesa, California
As the world was being created, G-d asked the creatures of the earth to choose their leaders. A giant whale became the ruler of the fish and other swimming creatures, a majestic bird was chosen to lead the winged animals, and a hippopotamus was appointed ruler of the land animals.
“But what about us?” asked the trees. “That is for you to decide,” G-d replied.
Each tree presented its attributes. The oak offered strength, the pine brought a commanding presence, the maple dazzled with magnificent colors, and the fig and date trees provided nourishing, sweet fruit. But what about the olive tree?
The olive tree was neither tall nor especially strong or colorful. While olives are tasty, figs and dates are filling and sweet. Yet when olives are pressed, they produce oil—and oil creates light, something no other tree can provide.
In this charming book written for kindergarten through second graders, the olive tree is chosen as the ruler of the trees. Its quiet yet essential contribution reflects G-d’s words during creation: “Let there be light.”
My twins would have loved this book when they were younger. The playful illustrations, with trees that have faces and speak to one another, bring the story to life.
This book is a wonderful choice to read in honor of the upcoming Jewish holiday of Tu B’Shvat, on Monday, Feb. 2, 2026.
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Cailin Acosta is the assistant editor of the San Diego Jewish World.
Thanks for this book. It sounds great for the little ones.