New picture book retells Rātā and the tree pūrakau
The Ever-Standing Tree Te Rākau Tū Tonu Tim Tipene Illustrated by Ani Huia Ligaliga Translated by Kanapu Rangitauira Modern retelling of a classic story comes to life in picture book about learning respect for nature A modern interpretation of the classic pūrākau of Rātā and the tree, Tim Tipene’s The Ever-Standing Tree/Te Rākau Tū Tonu highlights the importance of respecting and protecting nature. In a typical Kiwi suburb, Dad cuts down the tree in the backyard – to get a better view. Overnight, the insects and birds work their magic and put it back together, leaving the family stunned. A battle of wills between the blade and nature ensues, until Dad finally comes to realise how special the tree is.
