The I Love My Forest picture book inspiring wonder, care, and love for Australia’s native forests.

I Love My Forest invites readers into a tender story of childhood, country, and the wild heart of the Australian bush.

Ned’s forest is his favourite place. Alive with cicadas, possums, goannas, and the rustle of eucalyptus leaves. It’s where he builds, explores, dreams, and plays.

When unexpected visitor Tom arrives, Ned begins to see the bush with new eyes. Through Tom, Ned discovers the quiet wonders of the forest, the trees that shelter animals, the wood that builds our homes, and the way people can help forests stay strong and full of life.

With wonder and care, Ned discovers how forests breathe and grow. This story inspires kids to explore the bush, care for country, and love the trees that give us so much.

I Love My Forest is a celebration of Australia’s native forests and the children that will grow up to protect them.

About the Book

A Story of Wonder, Curiosity, and Care

I Love My Forest was created from a deep love of Australia’s native forests and the ecosystems within them. Commissioned by Sustainable Forest Management, the book inspires children to explore the bush, care for country, and grow a lifelong connection with nature.

Through Ned’s adventures, children discover forests as places full of life, wildlife, learning, and story. From towering gum trees and cicadas to treehouse adventures and the people who care for forests for generations to come.

Each spread includes fun forest facts and learning moments, helping children connect storytelling with real-world understanding of forest ecosystems, wildlife habitat, and forest stewardship. With 28 full-page colour illustrations and forest facts throughout every spread, I Love My Forest encourages curiosity, connection, and care for the natural world through a child’s eyes. Perfect for children aged 2–10 years.

"Beautifully capturing the spirit of the bush, this story inspires children to treasure Australia’s native forests."

“A story that reminds us forests are more than trees - they are homes, memories, and places to wonder.”

Forest Wildlife

A Forest Full of Life

Australia’s native forests are home to an incredible variety of wildlife, from sleepy possums and colourful rosellas to curious goannas, wallabies, and the chorus of cicadas in the trees.

These forests provide food, shelter, and safe habitats for countless animals, all living together in a rich and connected ecosystem. Through Ned’s adventures, children discover the important role forests play in protecting the wildlife that calls the bush home.

I care for my forest, and my forest cares for me.

A simple promise to help children build a lifelong connection with the forests around them.

Sustainable Forest Management

Caring for Forests for  Generations to Come

Sustainable Forest Management works alongside landowners to care for native forests with a focus on long-term forest health for generations to come.

Grounded in stewardship, knowledge, and respect for country, SFM believes healthy forests can support wildlife, communities, livelihoods, and future generations when cared for responsibly.

To learn more about Sustainable Forest Management and Australia’s native forests, please visit sustainableforestmanagement.com.au

About the Author & Illustrator

Laura Hui is a writer, dedicated tree lover and mum of two adventurous boys. Living in regional New South Wales, she draws inspiration from the forests around her and the little hands that explore them. I Love My Forest is her debut picture book; a heartfelt celebration of the magic of nature, curiosity, and caring for the land.

Penelope Pratley is an Australian illustrator and educator who brings stories to life with warmth and whimsy. Working from her home studio, Penelope creates gentle, nature-inspired art for children’s books. Her work reflects a love of storytelling, imagination, and the world around us. Learn more at penelopesnest.com.