As I write this, in mid-March, it’s cloudy, grey, and windy. The cold has hung on for a long time, and the promise of spring feels very far away—which is partly why this little book is so helpful to read. I’m pretty tired of winter, but Pippa, our main character, delights in it.

Kristyn Getty’s charming rhymes describe Pippa’s “Wellington boots and woolies so snug,” the whistling breeze, and the crunch of leaves underfoot. Complemented by P.J. Lynch’s gorgeous artwork, winter starts to feel like a hug: something cozy and inviting rather than frigid. As Pippa swings from her tree and marvels in God’s creation, it’s easy to join in with her, and as her scenery unfolds before us—rolling blue-green hills and a pink sunrise—we experience how all of creation glorifies its Creator, even during a season when everything seems dead.

Pippa delights in the winter, yes, but it’s the spring that really gives this beautiful book its meaning. As the snow melts and pink flowers begin to bloom from Pippa’s “singing tree,” Pippa feels the warmth of the spring sun as though it’s God’s love, and lifts up her voice to sing God’s praises with the rest of creation.

The messages of Pippa and the Singing Tree are simply rendered for young readers, but timeless and important for older readers as well: just like the tree glorifies God with its beautiful blossoming year after year, we, too, should lift up our voices and worship our Lord with all of creation! Thanks to Getty’s lyrical writing and Lynch’s vivid illustrations, Pippa’s joy with the coming of spring is palpable, and gives us the clear reminder that “For joy and for life / to Pippa, to me, / God calls us to sing / with his singing tree”!

About Pippa and the Singing Tree:

In this illustrated book, singer and hymn writer Kristyn Getty teaches children how they can answer Scripture's call to worship.

Playing outside one chilly autumn day, Pippa is surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. The great trees, robins, and icy winds—depicted in charming lyrical prose—all witness to God's majesty. Moved by the beauty around her, Pippa lifts her voice, adding her own song to the chorus.

Combining beauty and rhythm with artwork by P. J. Lynch, this story makes a great gift or church resource for children ages 5-8.