The Reading Tree

"The author captures the essence of reading as a relationship-building activity in such a profound way that clearly shows her deep connection with children and an understanding of how children develop through stories. "
—Dr. Rebecca Chan, Lecturer, Psychology and Child & Human Development (PCHD) Academic Group, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University

"The book focuses on young readers and stimulates their imagination of the possibilities of life long reading.  The narrative is simple, straightforward, and believable to children whose creative realities fall within the bounds of their fantasy.  The formula ending of “living happily ever after” that completes the traditional tales is substituted by a child-oriented desire for closure with a “to be continued” cliff hanger for a sequel."
—Lily H. Wong Ed.D; LHD., President, OMEP-Singapore, Founder - Executive Director, Advent Links-SAUC Teacher Education Centre

This story speaks of two of my great loves, trees and books and combines them in an unexpected way. Unlike in Shel Silverstein's The Giving Tree, in this book the relationship between tree and man is a positive one, which is carried down through the generations. Its gentle, hopeful storyline and pleasing illustrations make it a perfect book for bedtime reading.
—Sheila Wee, Founder, Storywise

Dr Khoo Kim Choo is a pioneer in the field of early childhood development and education in Singapore. For over 35 years, she has been involved in various educational roles, helping governments, voluntary welfare groups and international non-government organisations, both locally and abroad. She has also taught at a number of universities. Dr Khoo is the Founder of Preschool for Multiple Intelligences. She is the author of three children’s poetry books: House by the Woods, Going Downtown and Whose Cat is That?

Tran Dac Trung is a Vietnamese national who has illustrated for various children's books in Asia and Europe, including Lions Can Fly for the Republic of Singapore Air Force and a picture book for the Ministry of Health's campaign to promote awareness for life care issues. He is also an artist and administrator for the Band of Doodlers (a social art group with more than 500 voluntary members specialising in visual art) where he has conducted drawing workshops for underprivileged children.  You can view his portfolio at www.dactrungart.com.