2026
Bridges to Belonging
Together, A Forest
Roz MacLean
Audience:
Elementary

In this visually stunning picture book, Joy and her diverse class explore a forest where every student, including those who are neurodivergent or use mobility aids, discovers their unique connection to nature. Joy is initially anxious about finding her "one thing" for a project, but she soon sees how her classmates' different ways of experiencing the world reflect the complex beauty of the ecosystem. The book compares the essential diversity of trees, fungi, and rushing water to the diversity of the class. It reminds readers of all ages that there is no "one right way" for a mind, body, or person to be, and that our unique differences are what create a truly vibrant, flourishing community.
About the Author
Roz MacLean is a Canadian children's book author and illustrator who lives on Vancouver Island. She is interested in reflecting the rich and diverse world we live in and using imagination to wonder, explore and create. Her stories often reflect on themes of neurodiversity and disability, the natural world, community and relationships. Her books include More Than Words: So Many Ways to Say What We Mean and Together, a Forest, with the upcoming title Do You Know The Dark? set for release in May 2026.

Roz MacLean



