Treeshape

An extraordinary, inspiring and hope-filled graphic novel from the multi-award-winning creator of Rivertime, Rockhopping, Landing with Wings and Leaf-light, Trace Balla's stunning memoir reveals her personal and life-changing experiences of place, her understanding of the natural world and her relationship to Country.

Ever since I was a kid my favourite place has always been up a tree – where everything I notice feels like a part of me. Every birdsong, every leaf's light, every butterfly's dance . . .

This beautiful book tells the story of young Trace's awakening to the preciousness of the environment, including her participation in the protests against uranium mining at Jabiluka in the 1980s. Channelling her gift for visual storytelling, Trace reveals emotional truths, shares her commitment to environmental activism, highlights trees that have been meaningful in her life, and explores her deep appreciation of place and connection with First Nations peoples.

With its delicate artwork, heartfelt storytelling and timely themes of compassion and environmental care, this graphic novel will resonate with readers of all ages.

'Treeshape is brimming with humanity and bursting with the wholesome imagery and folk wisdom that magnify the small details of life - a generous act of love from a rare Australian artist.' - Shane Howard, singer/songwriter, Goanna

PRAISE FOR TRACE BALLA'S BOOKS:

'Another lovely adventure from Trace Balla. Rich in country and family, deep in care for the future.' BRUCE PASCOE

'A beautiful book about being connected to the world at ground level. I feel like I've made a new friend through Trace's exquisitely accessible drawings and gentle prose.' ALISON LESTER

'Reminiscent of Alison Lester and Roland Harvey, this is a story about moving slowly, looking carefully and remaining curious, and it is a book that leads by example. It is spellbinding.' BOOKS+PUBLISHING

Perfect for:

- Graphic novel fans of all ages

- Fostering a love of nature and caring for Country

- Introducing readers to the power of environmental activism

- Teachers and students of English, Visual Arts, History, First Nations Cultures and Histories and Environmental Studies

About the Author

Trace Balla is a much-loved Australian children's book author, illustrator and writer of song lyrics who lives on Dja Dja Wurrung Country. She has won the CBCA Book of the Year Award, the Readings Children's Book Prize, the Wilderness Society's Environment Award for Children's Literature, a Comic Arts Awards of Australia Bronze Ledger, and an Honour Award for the inaugural SCBWI Australian Picture Book Illustrator Awards. She has also been shortlisted for the NSW Premier's Literary Awards, Speech Pathology Book of the Year Awards (twice), Adelaide Festival Awards for Children's Literature, and ALIA Graphic's Notable Australian Graphic Novel Award.

Trace's stories explore themes of connection to Country and community, nature, friendship, gratitude, grief and human rights. She also loves to inspire others, of all ages and from all walks of life, through her talks and workshops, which explore creativity and caring for the planet. Trace does freelance illustration work, from logos to murals, and has a bookshelf ever filling with her nature journals and other reflections. Find out more about her at traceballa.com