Tree dreamed of being the tallest in the forest and a cozy home for woodland friends. But when she's cut down and turned into boards, her dreams seem lost. Tree embarks on new adventures and discovers a different way to become a home. This heartwarming story celebrates resilience, adaptation, and the amazing power of change. Targeted for children ages 6, 7, and 8, this book offers an inside look into the life of a hopeful tree. From writer Kelley M Likes and illustrator Alison Stephen comes a heartwarming tale for young readers about the importance of embracing change. Kids ages: 6, 7, and 8 Grade Level: 1st and 2nd Early/Transitional Reader Lexile Level 460L A Home for Merriweather is a beautifully written, metaphor-rich story with strong themes of resilience, transformation, and purpose-perfect for SEL classrooms, nature lovers, and fans of stories with heart. Perfect for parents, teachers, librarians, and caregivers, as this book is: a heartwarming tale of transformation a SEL story about growth and letting go from forest to home: a journey of purpose an environmental children's book with hope perfect for classroom read-alouds a coping with change story for early elementary a growth mindset picture book a resilience story for first and second grade Free Lesson Plans and Storytime Videos at www.LikesPublishing.com ABOUT THE AUTHOR Kelley M Likes is an award-winning children's author, publisher, and former T6 Certified educator who creates stories that inspire curiosity and kindness, build confidence, creativity, and resilience. Her books range from humorous picture books and beginning readers to social-emotional learning stories that help children navigate real-life challenges. Drawing on her background in business, education, and educational technology, Kelley creates engaging books for children of all ages, from beginning readers and humorous adventures to social-emotional learning stories and imaginative picture books. Her growing catalog includes titles such as Panic and the Happy Thought, The Pumpkin Who Stayed for Christmas, Quest for the Momma Violin, Snout, Ben Wise and the Purple Dragon, and the Mat early reader series. As founder of Likes Publishing, Kelley is dedicated to producing high-quality books that inspire a lifelong love of reading while helping children navigate friendship, emotions, creativity, and personal growth. A mini-stroke survivor, brain tumor host, and lifelong storyteller, Kelley believes books can help children see the world, and themselves, in new ways. When she's not writing, Kelley enjoys encouraging young writers, speaking to students about the publishing process, and helping aspiring authors bring their own stories to life. EDUCATION: Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) in Media and Technology Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Business Education Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Business Administration Associate of Arts (A.A.) in Marketing and Management MEMBER: SCBWI Storyteller Academy The Authors Guild IBPA Independent Book Publishers Association Book an Author Alliance of Independent Authors AUTHOR VISITS I offer a full day of age-specific presentations for grades 1st to 12th, focused on what it means to be an author & publisher and creating stories. Visits can include: Lunch with students, book signings, contest judging, classroom drop-ins, and individual classroom presentations and discussions. In addition, free lesson plans with projects to extend the visit are included.