... and they agreed that the tree really belonged to everyone!
Set around an old oak tree,
two groups of children find themselves at odds with each other. As angry words halt their play, can the children find a way forward to share their special place and turn strangers into friends?
A heartwarming story about the value of teamwork, second chances and the healing power of a meaningful apology.
Written by Kathy Urban | Illustrations by Rosie Butcher
Publishing October 9, 2025 by Little Steps UK and Australia
Join Kathy Urban for the launch of her latest picture book, A Tree for Everyone — a heartwarming story about friendship, second chances, and the power of a meaningful apology. Perfect for children aged 3–8 and their families, Kathy’s sessions encourage participation and opens up conversations around empathy, sharing, and working together.
To bring Kathy’s storytime to your school, bookshop, library or event venue, please get in touch using the contact form.
Did you know that oak trees live for hundreds of years—some more than 1,000— they’re home to hundreds of species. Its strength comes from its deep roots and, moreover, from the rich web of life it supports—and is supported by.
There’s a beautiful truth we can learn from trees: they grow, they thrive through connection.
Giving. Taking. Sharing.
I felt compelled to write something new, something that’s rooted in my own childhood. It’s one that keeps resurfacing time and time again these days, as if it wanted me to share it. This story is one about friendship, old and new ones, of second chances and the healing power of a meaningful apology.
Coming this autumn, when the oak tree will be changing colours once again - A Tree for Everyone.
I can’t wait to share it with you.
PS: Photo taken from the original setting, where this story unfolded more than thirty years ago.