Milly and the Mulberry Tree

“Any young readers who like playing outdoors or have their own special hideaway will delight in the vibrant illustrations, the playful prose, and the memories Milly makes under her beloved mulberry tree.” * The Pregnancy Centre *
A story of growth, belonging, stretching out and sharing. A blend of humankind and nature and how one tree can shape a life of play, beauty, imagination and love, bringing loved ones together again and again, and mould a girl’s then young woman’s identity. From the soft pinks and purples from the front cover to the bright lanterns and back again, this is a gentle story to spark the imagination of possible futures whilst marveling at the wonder of nature at the same time. * What Book is Next? *
“This is a book really spoke to my childhood, and my children’s childhood because we had a Mulberry Tree. It’s an absolutely beautiful story about growing up, family and coming home.” * Your Kids Next Read Podcast *
“holds an inspirational message about the importance of exploring new worlds as we grow, while keeping home close to her hears.” * Buzz Words Magazine *
“Inspired by the 100-year-old mulberry tree that grows in the author's own childhood garden, this is a book full of heart and joy that will be a delight for educators and families to share, particularly for those with nostalgic memories of mulberry trees!.” * Kids’ Book Review *
“A truly special book that celebrates nature, family , exploring new worlds and keeping home close to our hearts.” * Picture Book Club *
“shows the importance of childhood memories, and how they can continue to be important in our grown up lives.” * Blue Wolf Reviews *
This story is all about growing and changing in the wonderful world around us. When Milly is just a toddler, she helps plant a mulberry tree in the garden. From a sapling, the mulberry tree grows limbs and leaves and berries until it’s giant. The silkworms change from caterpillars to cocoons to beautiful moths. From a little girl playing in the mulberry tree, Milly grows up and moves overseas, finding new kinds of beauty. However, she always carries the magic of the mulberry tree with her. * Space Magazine *
“Little Milly plants a mulberry tree with her dad. The tree and Milly grow together“ * The Daily Telegraph *
“Milly and the Mulberry Tree is a sweet story about the magic of home, nature, and seeing the wonder in everywhere we go. “ * NZ Booklovers *
“Vikki Conley invites us into a nostalgic and whimsical world, where young readers will connect with Milly’s nurturing love of silkworms in her childhood, and how it transforms into her love of silk fabric as an adult.” * CBCA’s Reading Time *
“Children will enjoy the story of the transformation of the silkworms and perhaps, will be encouraged to explore the mini-worlds outdoors. Parents who share the story, may be reminded of their own special “hideaways” and wish to create one with their little ones. An appealing read.” * Story Links *
“This story is about growing and changing in the wonderful world around us” * The Space Magazine *
“The book acknowledges how we connect to place through people as well as the natural environment and uses the planting of a mulberry tree as a metaphor for growth and wonder. The illustrations are equally delightful and whimsical. “ * Swings and RoundAbouts *
"Brings two cultures together“ * Australian Women’s Weekly *