Codi and the Maple Tree

Codi is on a mission to find a new den for his wolf pack when a seed pod from a maple tree falls onto his back, making him very uncomfortable. Codi's pack helps him remove it and mother nature carries it to a location where the maple seed takes root. Generations later, Codi's pack has grown in numbers and the seed pod has developed into a majestic maple tree that is an heirloom for all to share. Codi and the Maple Tree is a beautiful story about purpose, growth and connectivity.

About the Author :
Joseph comes from a lineage of hard working Italian immigrants who settled in a suburb just outside of Syracuse in central New York. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Native American Studies and is an author, Registered Yoga Teacher, Licensed Massage Therapist and a Certified Personal Trainer. Nearly twenty years ago, he acquired a wolf named Codi from an animal shelter. That led him to a wolf refuge in Colorado where he lived with forty-two other wolves without electricity or running water for a year. He then began offering educational seminars to the public with ambassador wolves to educated people about the dangers of owning a wolf as a pet. He outlined the social similarities with wolves and humans, as well as the difference between wolves in the wild verses captivity. His life hasn't been the same since. He currently lives in Chicago with two dogs. In 2018, Joseph released his first children's book, Codi and the Maple Tree, at The BookExpo, BookCon in NYC.

Review :
"Codi and The Maple Tree is the exact book I was looking for when my son started school- a book about the importance and sacredness of nature, what it means to be a true leader and how even heroes need to ask for help. The prose and illustrations work in a dance not found in most modern children's literature. This is a beautiful, soulful book that will uplift and inspire children and parents alike- a modern classic." - Sara Connell, author and writing coach. Sara has been featured on Oprah, Good Morning America, The View and many programs. She's been published in The New York Times, Parenting, Good Housekeeping, Forbes, Tri-Quarterly and The Bangelore Review. Sara's first book, Bringing In Finn was nominated for Elle magazine book of the year. "Codi and the Maple Tree is just what we need more of in children's literature... nature, wildlife and morals. The story of Codi stems from author Joseph Lauricella's involvement with a wolf refuge program. His authenticity shines through in his words and in the beautiful illustrations by Olga Pietraszek. A truly wonderful story for children... and adults." - Kathryn Bertine, author, activist, athlete & filmmaker.