Readers Are Talking
Best Selling Author and Hospitality EntrepreneurI am immediately taken by a 7 year-old’s willingness to take walks with his Mom throughout the year, spending time in nature and TALKING! With TV, video games, iPads, etc. it is often difficult to get children this young away from these devices but even at a young age Clay recognizes the importance of talking, listening and learning. There is inspiration in that both children and adults can look at the simple things in life, found in nature, and use them throughout the day. The fact that Clay can learn from, and share a life long lesson from a bug-bite should make anyone smile. Yes, this book made me smile and there is no better way to start the day.
Clay’s book is a delightful read. The Long Forest Trail not only has meaningful content - it reminds us that we would be well serviced to think like children and embrace our inner child to become the best versions of ourselves, long after we’ve “grown up.” While this would make a thoughtful and insightful gift for the children in your life - I think we can all use a little more of this spirit right now, regardless of our age.
In these times when our lives are increasingly fast-paced and technology-driven, it's vital to reconnect with the simple yet profound aspects of life, like the bond between a parent and child and the magic of the natural world. This book provides a much-needed reminder of the importance of nurturing these connections, for our own well-being and for the health of our planet.
I sincerely hope that people will not only read this book but also share it with their friends and family. It carries a message of love, togetherness, and the significance of cherishing our environment. In a world that sometimes feels divided, a story like this has the power to bring people closer and encourage them to protect and appreciate the world we share.
My wish is that this book touches the hearts of many and encourages a ripple effect of positivity and environmental stewardship, one family, one friend, and one reader at a time. Thank you and Best of luck to Clay.
What a beautiful tribute to the power of our mind and our connection to nature. As a health coach, I can attest to the deep connection that exists between our thoughts, our connection to nature, and our overall well being. Clay's book is a perfect guide for adults and children alike as it beautifully outlines the most powerful influences to our health and happiness. Thank you for this, Clay! You're awesome!!!
After reading The Long Forest Trail, I found myself overcome with a sense of nostalgia for a place I’ve never been physically. The illustrations are timeless and transport you to a magical childhood dream. Much like a Disney movie, every sentence has a dual meaning, appealing to both adults and children alike. This is a crucial message packaged in a beautifully illustrated book to take to heart today more than ever as we seek to connect with one another. I’ll also be buying this for my siblings to share with their kids, fostering a shared journey of adaptation to life’s ever-shifting currents.
All kids - and parents - should have this book!! Gorgeously illustrated, this will make for some ultra-cozy bedtime reading, but most importantly there are some essential life lessons woven into the story that we all need, particularly in these challenging times. Even as adults, we can use regular reminders of these, but they're especially valuable for kids, many of whom haven't yet had the chance to learn these things from life experience. I wish that when I was little, I would have had a book like this to beautifully illustrate a healthier way to deal with emotions like fear, sadness, and worry, and to show me that although difficult times and feelings may come, they won't last forever. Spring and happiness will come again.
What a beautiful way to spread more light in the world! This will make a fantastic Christmas gift, for anyone with kids.
It's awesome that Amber and Clay incorporated nature and life lessons around kindness, compassion, relationships and adversity into this beautiful book. The illustrations pair well with the message as well. Loved seeing the change of seasons as you two went on your adventure. Tell Clay he has some fans up here in Canada.
This book left me in tears - happy tears of course! And for SO many reasons. The beautiful relationship depicted between the mother in son and the lessons they shared together on their walks was extremely heart-warming. Each lesson was such a beautiful reminder about the power that nature holds (that we sometimes forget or take for granted). I love a good rhyming book and the way the words flowed on the page from one sentence to the next drew me in and each lesson told in this beautiful way left an impression on me. One I would never forget. To top it off, the fact that it was written by Clay moved me! If more children valued nature and spent time exploring the natural world, just like Clay, the world would certainly be a better place.
As a former elementary educator myself, I love the magic found in a picture book. They hold such powerful messages - and this book is no different! Although it's written for children, it has lessons for children of ALL ages (Yes, even us "big kids" too). I'd love to see this book in the hands of ALL humans!
Gorgeously illustrated and simply stated, The Long Forest Trail reminds readers that each of us has the awesome power to decide how we think and feel through every situation. The story smartly utilizes Nature's character of perseverance through all seasons and always growing towards the light despite the elements giving readers an unmistakable example of the great that comes from the power of thinking on things that are good, pure, positive, and dealing swiftly with negative thoughts and feelings, or as this adorable pint-sized author writes, "to be the light. In a world that's always trending, this book is a great reminder that thinking for yourself can make the most beautiful impact for everyone.
I was filled with immense joy and excitement when I witnessed Clay's extraordinary vision for The Long Forest Trail finally coming to life. This captivating and enchanting story takes us on an extraordinary journey through the different seasons, picturesque trails, and invaluable life lessons. I am beyond thrilled to have the opportunity to share this wonderful book with the children in my life, as it is a truly wonderful book. Heartfelt congratulations to you, Clay Vilhauer, on a job incredibly well done!
In these challenging times, Clay's message about mindset and collecting evidence of goodness is a ray of hope. This book reminds us that we are better together and encourages us to embrace love, kindness, and trust. I hope readers share this book with their friends and family, passing on its wisdom. It's a heartfelt journey through the forest of emotions, and it's a must-read for anyone looking to find their happy place amidst the chaos of life.
Simple words tied to deeper meanings that pack a punch every page. This book features lovely illustrations and shares important messages for families in today's uncertain world. The main themes are adventure, connection, gratitude and appreciation, and acceptance of change, which are part of life's journey. What's remarkable is that a six-year-old wrote it so well, making it a joy to read. I hope families can use this book to start important conversations with their loved ones.
The Long Forest Trail is a beautifully imagined journey through the seasons. It celebrates the vital role of relationships in an ever-changing world. The lovingly rendered illustrations capture the tranquil beauty to be found in the natural world. Its themes of resilience, love and mindfulness make this book a valuable resource for any classroom library.
What I love about this book is that it goes a bit deeper than any other children's book I've seen. They have taken the time to show the reader (both parents and children) that kids do have the awareness and capacity to understand how to go within themselves to find the lessons and the joy in the world around them. We don't give kids enough credit, and The Long Forest Trail really does show what's possible when you do!
