By Ash, Oak and Thorn

Synopsis

 

A breathtaking tale of the rich, wild world and all its wonder from acclaimed nature writer and Costa Award-shortlisted novelist, Melissa Harrison - the perfect read for cosy nights!

SHORTLISTED FOR THE BOOKS ARE MY BAG READERS AWARDS 2021

CHOSEN AS ONE OF COUNTRYFILE'S BEST NATURE BOOKS OF 2021

'Timely and magical, it will open the young reader's eyes to the wonders of the natural world.' NATASHA FARRANT

'Each page brims with the wonder of our natural world, so much to learn but all a sheer delight.' PIERS TORDAY

Three tiny, ancient beings - Moss, Burnet and Cumulus, once revered as Guardians of the Wild World - wake from winter hibernation in their beloved ash tree home.

When it is destroyed, they set off on an adventure to find more of their kind, a journey which takes them first into the deep countryside and then the heart of a city.

Helped along the way by birds and animals, the trio search for a way to survive and thrive in a precious yet disappearing world ...

• The breathtaking children's debut from acclaimed nature writer and literary fiction novelist, Melissa Harrison: shortlisted for the Costa Book Award and longlisted for the Baileys Prize
• Inspired by 1942 classic The Little Grey Men by BB, with shades of The Borrowers
• A tale of disappearing wilderness that couldn't be more relevant in today's environmental crisis, brought to life for children by three tiny, funny, eternal beings
• Continue the adventure in book 2, By Rowan and Yew!

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Summary

Chapter 1: By the Roots of the Tree

* Introduction to the magical world of Tir na nOg, where the Great Tree reigns supreme.
* Meet Elenna, a young woman who discovers her true nature as a Druidess.
* Elenna's mentor, the ancient Oak Tree, guides her in her journey of self-discovery and connection to the land.

Example: Elenna's first encounter with the Oak Tree is a transformative experience. The tree whispers secrets to her, filling her with a sense of purpose and belonging. She realizes that her destiny lies in fostering the balance between nature and people.

Chapter 2: The Path of the Ash

* Elenna embarks on a quest to find the fabled Ash Tree, which holds the knowledge of healing and prophecy.
* Along the way, she encounters challenges and gains wisdom from the creatures and spirits of the forest.
* Elenna harnesses the power of the Ash Tree to heal the sick and guide her people.

Example: While searching for the Ash Tree, Elenna stumbles upon a group of villagers suffering from a plague. Using the tree's healing properties, she creates a potion that cures the villagers, earning their gratitude and respect.

Chapter 3: The Guardians of the Thorn

* Elenna's journey leads her to the Thorn Bush, a symbol of protection and the guardian of otherworldly secrets.
* She confronts her fears and discovers a hidden portal that transports her to the realm of Faerie.
* Elenna learns the importance of boundaries and maintaining the balance between the human and faerie worlds.

Example: As Elenna approaches the Thorn Bush, she feels a surge of energy and the whisper of the Thorn Guardians. They challenge her, but recognizing her respect for nature, they allow her safe passage.

Chapter 4: The Crossroads of Destiny

* Elenna's path culminates at the Crossroads of Destiny, where she must make a life-changing choice.
* Surrounded by the spirits of her ancestors, she must choose between her human life and her destiny as a Druidess.
* Elenna chooses to embrace her true purpose, knowing that it will lead her to a greater connection with the land and her people.

Example: At the Crossroads of Destiny, Elenna faces a vision of her family and her role as a healer. She chooses to follow the path of the Druidess, sacrificing her human connections but gaining a profound connection to the world around her.

Chapter 5: The Return of Light

* Elenna uses her newfound powers to heal the land of Tir na nOg, which has been ravaged by darkness.
* She leads her people in a battle against the forces of evil, restoring balance and harmony.
* The Great Tree flourishes under Elenna's care, symbolizing the triumph of nature and the power of connection.

Example: As Elenna harnesses the combined powers of the Ash, Oak, and Thorn, she summons a surge of light that banishes the darkness from Tir na nOg. The land is rejuvenated, and her people celebrate her as a true hero.