Living Bridges: The Hidden World of India's Woven Trees

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Co-Authors / Illustrators
Age Range
4+
Release Date
June 03, 2025
ISBN
978-1665950299
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A boy learns how to care for and weave the roots of the living tree bridges in his village in India in this narrative nonfiction picture book that “offers young readers insight into a positive way to sustain the environment” (School Library Journal, starred review).

In the mountains of Meghalaya, India, a living bridge stands tall, connecting the land and its people with the interwoven roots of tall, wide ficus trees. The bridge is called Jingkieng Jri, and it’s alive. A little boy can’t wait to learn to weave the roots together just like the generations before him.

But when he notices litter on the bridge and scars on the roots from people stealing sap, he knows Jinkieng Jri doesn’t just need shaping, it needs love. By rallying his community and even visiting tourists, the boy protects the living bridge and shares his message of care.

Editor review

1 review
There's Bridges woven from Living Trees!
(Updated: June 04, 2026)
Overall rating
 
4.3
Writing Style
 
4.0
Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)
 
4.0
Learning Value
 
5.0
The lush forests of India hide an old art - weaving living trees into sweeping, walkable bridges. In this warm and dreamy story, a young boy goes with his father to learn how to make and care for these old structures that have been important parts of forest communities for hundreds of years.

It's a subject that's both simple and grand. People have always needed bridges, and the craft of living bridges, or Jingkieng Jri, is a beautiful demonstration of ingenuity and harmony with nature that's passed down as a piece of valued heritage. In learning to weave bridges, the little boy is also connecting to local traditions, bonding with family, and understanding the importance of conservation - the visitors who sight-see are there for a day, while the locals and caretakers of the forest will see the effects of whatever they leave behind everyday.

Brought to life with vividly colored, full-page illustrations, Living Bridges tells a warm story and opens eyes to a hidden wonder that the world would be sad to miss.
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