Emerald Forest

Life in the forest canopy changes drastically for Orangutan and her family when the tree-cutters move in and their home is destroyed. Where can they live? But for this little family – and hopefully, others – on the tropical island of Sumatra, there are human friends working for their survival and safety. 

"The Emerald Forest is a beautiful picture book which can be enjoyed on many levels... The jewel-like illustrations are gorgeous and help the reader immerse themselves in the glory of the emerald jungle. One for any classroom bookshelf, school library or a wonderful birthday gift for any environmentally-aware child.", "This powerful and moving picture book is set in tropical Sumatra, an island that has lost almost half its rainforest cover in recent years. The story graphically describes the reactions of an orangutan family to the destruction of their age-old home, but also shows how wildlife campaigners are bringing hope for the future.", "A beautifully illustrated and well written story... The illustrations compliment the writing and bring the story to life....a perfect book for KS1 and 2 and would be great to share as part of a rainforest topic! It could be used as a stimulus for creative writing too.", "A beautiful, lyrical and moving story of Orangutan, her growing family and the vivid forest in which they live... The tropical rainforest setting is vividly brought to life with Catherine’s carefully chosen words, which sweep us through the story with sensitivity and deft emotion. Karin’s watercolours are vibrant and full of movement, but also fragile just like the Sumatran forest they depict.", "This beautifully told and illustrated story works on many levels. It is an excellent introduction to current issues such as deforestation, wildlife extinction, climate change and conservation. The story also draws on matters that children will identify with, such as the fear of change and compassion to help those who are more vulnerable."

Catherine Ward has been working in primary schools since 2008. After joining SCBWI – the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators – she graduated from the Golden Egg Academy picture book programme in 2019. She is passionate about wildlife conservation, with a special interest in the endangered orangutans of Sumatra. The Emerald Forest is her debut picture book. She lives in Leicestershire.Karin Littlewood is one of Britain’s most distinguished illustrators, celebrated for her beautiful and atmospheric paintings and sensitive character portrayal. Born and brought up in Yorkshire, she now lives in north London. Her many published books include the classic picture book The Colour of Home (with Mary Hoffman), the international bestseller, Immi, and most recently Saving Hanno, with Miriam Halahmy.