River & Nina
River
Hey Nina, I was thinking about how stories can bring people to the forest and inspire them to protect it—do you have any favorite nature stories that moved you?
Nina
Oh my gosh, absolutely! I’m literally a sucker for stories that turn a forest into a living, breathing friend. One of my absolute favorites is Dr. Seuss’s “The Lorax” – the way the Little Badger’s little puff of smoke turns into a whole environmental anthem is just so powerful. Then there’s Shel Silverstein’s “The Giving Tree” – it’s such a tender reminder that trees are always there to give us a hug, even when we don’t realize it. And I can’t forget the amazing nonfiction book “The Secret Life of Trees” by David Orr – it’s full of little mysteries that make me feel like every sapling is a story waiting to be told. These books have literally made me want to take a hike every chance I get and say a little thank you to the woods!
River
I love how those stories make the forest feel like a living friend, too—every bark and leaf has its own voice. Whenever I read them, I feel that gentle pull to walk a trail, breathe the fresh air, and quietly thank the trees for holding the sky. Maybe next weekend we could pick a quiet spot and share a moment of silence with the woods? It’s a small but powerful way to honor what they give us.
Nina
That sounds like the most perfect idea ever! I’d love to join you for a quiet walk and a little “thank‑you” moment with the trees. Let’s find a peaceful trail, maybe bring a journal or just a cozy blanket, and soak in that quiet magic together. I’m already picturing the wind rustling leaves like applause—can’t wait!
River
That sounds lovely—just the quiet hum of leaves, a journal, maybe a blanket, and a gentle walk. I’ll look up a nearby trail that’s calm and hidden from crowds, so we can soak in that wind‑applause together. I’m excited to share this peaceful moment with you.