4.5 ⭐️

This children’s audiobook was great. It educates on ecosystems in nature and relates that information back to diversity in humans - specifically neurodiversity and intellectual differences. It’s a really good comparative relationship that kids can easily grasp.

The narrator delivers the storyline flawlessly. It is a little fact dense for new, younger learners. A combo read of audio with the physical book for reference, to help the reader follow along for the first read or two would likely be very helpful.

Thank you NetGalley, Roz MacLean, and Macmillian audio for this audiobook ARC.

This is a high-quality audiobook production with a full soundtrack attached that is narrated by Melinda Sewak. The music plays underneath the narrators voice. The music is primarily spa music, nature sounds with light instrumental music added. It creates an atmosphere of wonder for the story.

This focuses on Ms. Khan's art class as they explore a forest ecosystem. The uniqueness of the inhabitants of the forest is highlighted by each student finding something that reinforced the beauty of human diversity. I asked to review this for the diversity angle, which is important now more than ever. However, I found myself charmed by the exploration of forest ecosystems. What a delightful description of underground fungi networks!

This also features a diverse group of kids as students tackling ethnic, racial, and disabilities which are part of what makes each individual unique. This is beautifully handled and a delightful story.

Thank you to Roz MacLean, Macmillan Audio, and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to and review this audiobook. All opinions and viewpoints expressed in this review are my own.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio | Macmillan Young Listeners for the advanced audiobook!
Narrated by Melinda Sewak

Together, a Forest is short, sweet, and educational. Judging by the cover, Im assuming the illustrations are beautiful and compliment the beauty of individuality and cohesiveness thant a Forest has. MacLean does a fantastic job comparing the different yet important rolls of animals and plants found throughout the forest to the differences of children/people and how we function, think, and feel.
Sewak has such a pleasant and soothing voice. Her narration made it an easy listen. The continual background music and forest sounds made it an even more delightful experience.

I received a copy of this audiobook from netGalley for a honest review.

I loved this look at our different learning styles and how we can use them to work better instead of against each other! I want to see the pictures in this book because I'm sure they would add another level to this story. A wonderful children's book.

Excellent lessons about diversity. The book compared diversity in people to diversity in ecosystems. It really hit home. I enjoyed it a lot.

5 stars

The audiobook was a little confusing of a listen but I got the overall gist of the story! A group of kids find an element that relates to them and shows them the strength they have within themselves! Showing diversity and strength and being stronger together as a group! A cute read!

A wonderful message that was well-narrated. Although a bit heavy handed on the messaging, it’ll fit in well when reaching the value and necessity of diversity in our environment and amongst humanity.

This was a lovely audiobook that illustrates that idea that diversity in nature, as well as in ways of thinking, creates a beautiful and functional ecosystem. I think it's a great book for helping kids see the beauty if different ways of experiencing the world around them.

I liked the audio extras, which made the book feel more substantial as an audiobook.

I listened to this book with my four kids in the car ranging from ages 4-11. All of them really enjoyed listening to it. The older kids really liked the detailed information about fungi, trees and how unique all the different characters were. It encouraged the kids to ask questions and I appreciate that it got the kids thinking. My 4 year old even put his tablet down to listen to it so I think that’s definitely a win!
We also really liked the sounds of nature in the background. It made the story come to life.
The audio narration was relaxing but kept us engaged. I think this would be a great book for an elementary class to listen to together.

This was an enjoyable book and a great add to anyones displays or reads for Earth Day. Different perspectives viewing the world is beautiful.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this early audio copy.

This was an adorable audiobook to listen to with my young son. The narration is wonderful. The narrator’s voice is fun and engaging. The background sounds are also a great addition. My son especially loved the birds.

The class field trip to the forest was a lot of fun. My son enjoyed learning about the ecosystem. He had strong desire to go outside and do some exploring after listening to the story, I loved the diversity and inclusion in this book. This book provides a great message for children about accepting other people’s differences.

Together in a Forest is a charming children’s book about a class exploring the wonders of the forest. Each child finds something unique in nature, showing how important diversity is in both the natural world and our communities. This delightful narrative also offers a glimpse into fascinating forest ecosystems, introducing concepts like underground fungi networks that enable trees to communicate and share nutrients, highlighting the interconnectedness of life.

Melinda Sewaz’s audio narration is fantastic, with her warm and engaging voice drawing listeners in. The background sounds add to the atmosphere without being overwhelming. Overall, Together in a Forest is an excellent choice for parents and educators looking to inspire a love for nature and an appreciation for diversity and individuality.

Thank you to NetGalley, Macmillian Audio, and Roz Maclean for an audio ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Class field trips into nature were one my favorite parts of school. This is such a beautiful little story of a class field trip. Joy is the perfect person to follow as we get to experience her thoughts and observations. While she was anxious, she learned to appreciate the differences she saw and heard. Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this adorable picture book. The narrator had the perfect tone for relating mood

**Book Review: Together in a Forest by Roz MacLean**

"Together in a Forest" by Roz MacLean is a beautifully crafted children’s book that follows a young class on a field trip to explore the wonders of the forest. Each child selects an element from the forest that resonates with them, illustrating the importance of personal connection and reflection.

The central theme emphasizes the value of diversity—not just in nature, but in human communities as well. This powerful message encourages young readers to appreciate differences and find strength in variety.

While the audio format can be a bit confusing, MacLean's insightful add-on at the end clarifies and enhances the overall message. The book is definitely worth a read, offering both educational value and a heartwarming narrative. Perfect for teaching kids about the beauty of diversity in a relatable way!

Together, a Forest follows a clase as they to on an adventure in the forest. They all have different ways to interact with the environment that work for them. I loved that the cast of characters was diverse and inclusive. The audio quality was good and could be sped up without issue. This would be a great read along for an early elementary classroom.

Thanks to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for an ALC of this audiobook for an honest review.