Branch: A Resurrection Story

God's creation is celebrated in a radiant, poetic retelling of the biblical story.

At the beginning of all things, God spoke, and a family tree sprouted in the dust. Adam and Eve were the first branches, but soon this beautiful tree came to include Noah, Abraham, Jesse, King David, and eventually Jesus...

Rebecca Janni's Branch retells our journey from sin to salvation through stirring poetry and a wonderfully accessible metaphor of trees, gardens, and plants. Luminous art from Michelle Carlos overflows with striking Old and New Testament imagery, which is explained further in back matter notes from the author and illustrator. Whether readers are hearing this story for the first--or hundredth--time, they'll find something new to discover on this expansive journey from Genesis to Revelation. Branch is an unforgettable book to share during all seasons, especially around Christmas and Easter.

Rebecca Janni is the author of Spin (Grosset & Dunlap), Jammy Dance (FSG), and the Cowgirl picture book series (Dutton). Branch began as a poem she wrote for her church's Easter celebration.. As research for the story, Rebecca examined the role of trees in the Bible--from Genesis to Revelation--and read various biblical translations, looking for every mention of trees, branches, vines, and seeds. A native of Iowa, Rebecca recently moved to St. Paul, Minnesota, where she lives with her family. Visit her website at rebeccajanni.com.

Michelle Carlos is a Filipina artist based in Stuttgart, Germany. She has illustrated almost a dozen books for children and young adults, including The Roach King of Raleigh (Blink), Past Watchful Dragons (Word on Fire), A Little Bit of Everything (Sleeping Bear), and Nikki Grimes' Lullaby for the King (Beaming). Michelle's work for Branch draws from her Catholic upbringing, her interest in the universe's origins, biblical trees and birds, and other subjects. Follow Michelle on Instagram @misheru_does_art and visit her website at michellecarlos.com.