How it All Began

“If there was a category higher than 10 then this book belongs in it…Outstanding story, design, and illustrations!”

Benjamin Franklin Awards

“Never in my wildest dreams did I ever imagine I’d be impressed by a SHAPE. But, this triangular picture book took me to a new, THREE SIDED place. That impressed me most about The Lonesome Pine. And…I LOVE that he wound up being a book, THIS book!”

Readers Digest

“This book is sure to be a favorite holiday story to be shared year after year.”

Barnes & Noble Bookstore

“I like how every tree was different, just like people. The Lonesome Pine had a good personality. This story is very true. We are all special in one way or another.”

6th grader

“It has a good message to it. It’s people like you that make the world a better place. Thank you for coming and sharing it.”

6th grader

“It was like it was a real person. I think it’s very important for kids to know that they are special.”

6th grader

“Thanks for bringing your wonderful story to our thoughts and hearts.”

5th grader

“That book make made me realize lots of good stuff I never thought before.”

5th grader

“It was sad, funny and nice. You are a very good writer.”

4th grader

“This book is a must have for all parents, children, teachers and classrooms.”

Teacher

“A book for all seasons…Not just for Christmas.”

Teacher

“Sometimes things don’t work out as we may have wished, but everything happens for a reason.”

Parent

“A beautiful tale that touches hearts and warms the soul.”

Reader

“This story will become part of our Christmas tradition along side the classics we have known and love.”

Reader

Magical – “We bought this book 7 years ago on a trip to the States. Our daughter was only 8 weeks old but we as new parents loved the story and now I am happy to say that another child later it is one of our kid’s favorite books and ours (the parents)

Reader

Inspirational – “This is such a lovely book. First of all the triangular shape is just brilliant, and the story has had my two boys enchanted from when they were tiny, to now, at school age. They took it in to school to show and tell, as the topic was about how paper was made, and the whole class loved it. This is an all round heart warming and special story!

Reader

My favorite Christmas Story – “A very powerful message: we each are unique and special. We each have our own qualities and traits and have something valuable to offer this world. This book should be on every school library shelf and everyone’s personal collection.”

Reader

“Everything about this book is perfect. The story is wonderful with such a happy ending. The rectangle shape of the book makes it even more interesting. I read it immediately and can’t wait to give it to my granddaughter.”

Reader

“As I walked down the aisle, the unusual shape of the book caught my eye. I stopped and picked it up. After reading just the first few pages, I knew it was a book I wanted to have for my son…for myself…for my classroom. I purchased the book without even finishing it. I read it from cover to cover when I got home and I knew I had made the right decision. It was a book to cherish. Everyone feels inadequate at some point. This shows that there may be a different plan for each of us. Every one of us has something unique to offer the world. Some are caught up in trying to measure up to someone else’s standard. The Lonesome Pine makes an important discovery as will the reader. Be prepared to be moved. This is a MUST HAVE book. Give yourself and others you love an incredible treat…this book.”

Reader

“This book is a must have for all parents, children, teachers and classrooms. Not only a great story, but also a lesson learned for all. “Sometimes things don’t work out as we may have wished, but everything happens for a reason. In the end our true gifts will be shared with all.” Enjoy this book, with your children, or by yourself, for many years to come. This book has made it to my Top 10 Favorite Children’s Books list.”

Reader

The moment I met Jane, at a holiday book signing in California, I knew how very special this author and her story were. We became friends instantly and I have loved watching her on her journey; hand in hand with Piney!
As a Community Relations Manager for a Barnes & Noble store I had the unique opportunity to meet hundreds of children’s authors and be introduced to so many wonderful books. The Lonesome Pine wrapped itself around my heart and gave joy to so many children that it was evident this book and this story, and this author, are an example of love with every turn of the page.
Piney’s story is Jane’s story. Like Jane, Piney is adorable, positive, exuberant, and filled with joy at the simple and beautiful things in life. And like Jane, Piney was put in circumstances that made him feel alone. But he gathered up his strength, relied on his friends and made the very best out of a sad situation. Anyone that is lucky enough to know Jane knows that her strength and love for family and friends has made her harder moments in life turn into something brilliant.
Her story tells children everywhere that we will all be met with difficult days where we may feel unloved or even unwanted. But the truth can be found within the lines of this charming and important story. That, with love, anything is possible.
Today, as I work for a large children’s literacy nonprofit and know, even more now, how vital books and stories are to all children, and especially to children struggling for basic needs – I am grateful for authors like Jane who weave a sweet story around a powerful message.
Thank you, to my sweet and talented friend for sharing her big heart through the words of The Lonesome Pine and for showing children that everyone has a place to shine!

Pam Lang