The Lumberjack's Beard

Reach for this book when your child is beginning to notice how their personal choices or 'busy-ness' might inadvertently hurt others. It is a gentle tool for children who are learning to juggle their own responsibilities with the needs of their community. Big Jim Hickory is a hardworking lumberjack who loves his job, but he soon realizes that every tree he fells leaves a forest friend homeless. To fix his mistake, he offers his own massive beard as a temporary sanctuary for a bird, a porcupine, and even a beaver. This humorous, absurdist tale moves from well-intentioned but impractical solutions toward a more sustainable, creative harmony. It is perfect for ages 3 to 7, offering a lighthearted way to discuss empathy, accountability, and the importance of finding long-term solutions to the problems we create.