Jon Klassen meets Carson Ellis in this stunning debut shortlisted for the World Illustration Awards.

When the little green thing is dropped from the mouth of a bird, it finds an unexpected home – on the back of a bear. The little green thing just needs to convince the bear to let it stay. You might not think a little green thing has a lot to say, but this one does!

It offers to provide great conversation, act as a gentle fan and protect the bear from intruders. In exchange, the little green thing receives warmth and safety. But when the seasons change, and it’s time for the little green sapling to become a big green tree, how will their friendship survive?

This is a contemplative story about what it means to share a friendship and when it's time to say goodbye (for now).