One Last Leaf

A powerful and touching picture book about love and connection, separation and letting go …

Autumn has passed and winter is here … but the little brown leaf clings on.

Through cold and snow and howling winds, a mighty oak tree stands tall, with one last leaf on its empty branches.

One last leaf.

From two of Australia's favourite picture book creators, bestselling author Patrick Guest and award-winning illustrator Jess Racklyeft, comes a story your family will treasure for a lifetime.

WHAT MAKES THIS BOOK SPECIAL:

A POWERFUL STORY, GENTLY TOLD: One Last Leaf is a powerful yet sensitively written allegory about family, love and letting go, which will hold meaning for any child or family dealing with change, separation anxiety or loss.

REASSURING MESSAGE: A truly moving and ultimately uplifting picture book for all ages, perfectly balanced by its themes of love and memory, and strength and independence.

AWARD-WINNING ILLUSTRATOR: Jess Racklyeft's signature style captures the luminous beauty of nature and perfectly complements the moving text.

ACCLAIMED AUTHOR: Patrick Guest is the bestselling author of Windows and The Second Sky.

PERFECT FOR:

Children aged 3 to 8.

Families wanting to support their children dealing with separation anxiety, fear of letting go, loss or grief.

Families who love beautiful storytelling with big emotions.

Classroom use in primary school settings – a great starting point for exploring themes of connection, belonging, love and loss.

About the Author

Patrick Guest was raised in the Melbourne beachside suburb of Seaford. He works as a physiotherapist by day and a best-selling children’s author by night. Patrick received huge acclaim for his story The Second Sky, illustrated by Jonathan Bentley, and it was shortlisted for the 2018 CBCA Picture Book of the Year Award. Likewise, Patrick’s fourth title, The Dress-Up Box, illustrated by Nathaniel Eckstrom, has established itself as a much-loved Australian classic, and was shortlisted for the 2019 CBCA Picture Book of the Year Award. His 2020 lockdown-inspired Windows was shortlisted for an ABIA, screened on the ABC, and adopted as a beacon of hope by families and schools around the world.

Jess Racklyeft is an author and illustrator based in Fitzroy, Melbourne. From her home studio, Jess creates original paintings and prints for greeting card companies and various clients. But her favourite work of all is producing children's books! Jess has authored and illustrated several picture books and board books and has won several awards. Her books include Australia: Country of Colour, Welcome Baby to this World, Before You Close Your Eyes (written by Scott Stuart) and Iceberg (written by Claire Saxby).