A poignant and beautifully illustrated look at how dangerous deforestation methods can be detrimental to local wildlife.

It is not only a lovely panda story - who doesn't love pandas - but it also rises awareness about the environment, by turning the furry character into a modern time environmental hero. Although the story is a bit too long, it has great illustrations that can keep the reader entertained and eventually used as a way to keep a little active kid focused. The general message may also be a bit too much for small kids, but the story is told in a way that makes them aware of the issues part of the sympathy for the brave panda. It is a great read, recommended for schools and first-time readers too.

First let me thank Netgalley for this advanced digital copy. What a sweet panda book. I really loved both the story line and the illustrations. Who doesn't love a cuddly panda? This short story follows a panda named Giant who lives in the forest. He likes spending time alone and talking to his favorite tree. I won't go into more as to not spoil it and I highly recommend it for all ages especially ones who love pandas like me.

In this modern day children's story, Giant is a young panda alone in the woods except for the tall bamboo that surrounds him. A large trunk of bamboo awakens Giant one day to alert him of a forest fire threatening their forest. With suggestions from Big Trunk, Giant attempts to put out the fire but it rages on. Eventually Giant claws holes into Big Trunk to create a loud whistle that signals the village to come and fight the fire. Thanks to Big Trunk's quick thinking and Giant's actions, the forest is saved and there is a sweet surprise ending to the story too!
Children will love the illustrations and young readers will not only be entertained by the story but also educated about the giant panda, a species classified as vulnerable to the risk of extinction due to habitat destruction, widespread bamboo harvesting, and tourist related industries.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

I am an elementary school art teacher and I read to my students all the time. The pictures in this book are beautiful. The story is a bit sad at parts and left a bit to be desired. A cute book overall.