Friends are a sure-fire remedy for loneliness. It's no different with children, adults, or animals--and, as we learn in this story, even trees! Sedona author Dusty Crisman has written A Lonely Tree, a children's book describing events that lead to a tree's getting the friends he wants and deserves. Crisman weaves kindness and helpfulness in and throughout this timeless story, showing that, to have friends, even a tree has to BE one. The story begins with the tree wishing he had friends with whom to share things. As various forest animals come by the tree, one by one, he helps and supports them-and they stay to become his friends. The tree's cooperation transfers to his new pals, and soon they're all helping each other. Even a harrowing storm doesn't deter their kindness to each other. This compelling 24-page book is appropriate for all ages, but is particularly suited for children 4-9 years old, who are in school or preschool with others their age and in the process of making-and being-friends. Illustrators of the book are three Sedona Red Rock High School students, Krushi Bhakta, Cheyenne Javey, and Tirzah Wright, who diligently spent the better part of a school semester drawing, coloring, and perfecting their artwork. The beautiful simplicity of their illustrations and the fresh, captivating images of the tree and its friends enhance the book's charm. The young illustrators successfully capture the emotions expressed through the text, and, conversely, the colorful, childlike illustrations lend themselves to further appreciation of the text by young readers.