Commissioned illustrations and paintings. From family fun at the cottage and chalet, to portraits, to books, to web brand design, to political satires for publications. From paints to pen and ink to digital, every assignment is unique.
( Represented by GALLERY 104 - New York and Laguna Art Gallery - California )
( Literary Agent: Cassandra Rodgers - The Rights Factory )
CHARLES BONGERS I CREATIVE DIRECTOR I BRAND DESIGNER | CONCEPT ILLUSTRATOR
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CHARLES BONGERS I CREATIVE DIRECTOR I BRAND DESIGNER | CONCEPT ILLUSTRATOR
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CHARLES BONGERS I CREATIVE DIRECTOR I BRAND DESIGNER | CONCEPT ILLUSTRATOR
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CHARLES BONGERS I CREATIVE DIRECTOR I BRAND DESIGNER | CONCEPT ILLUSTRATOR
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WRITTEN AND ILLUSTRATED BY CHARLES BONGERS
Narrated by “Nuts” the playful squirrel and inspired by the wondrous science of trees, Do Trees Have Mothers? aims to spark a connection to nature in children ages 4 to 8 years old. As research tells us, the earlier a child is introduced to the natural world, the more likely they will choose to live within its wonder and calm, as well as feel a responsibility as its future custodian.
With whimsical illustrations and age-appropriate text, Do Trees Have Mothers? is a non-fiction book that translates scientific knowledge about the kinship structures of the forest into an affirming story about how trees nurture their young. Discover all the ways in which a mother tree protects and nourishes the baby trees of the forest understory.
Meet "Nuts", the original tree planter and playful narrator of Do Trees Have Mothers?
Eighty percent of the time he forgets where his nuts are stashed!
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Reviews
"We were so excited to welcome Charles to our school for not one, not two, but three engaging presentations for our kindergarten, grade 1, 2, and 3 students! His visit was the perfect grand finale to our Earth Week festivities, which took place throughout the month. Charles' calm and friendly demeanor immediately captivated the students during the interactive readings of his book and had them bursting with questions and stories to share. He seamlessly weaves scientific knowledge into the narrative, making complex concepts accessible and fun for even the youngest learners. Do Trees Have Mothers? is a perfect addition to any classroom or school library and a perfect tool to link to the scientific curriculum in a fun way."
- Kelsey Begg / Elementary School Outdoor Education Specialist, Selwyn House School - Montreal
"This beautifully designed and illustrated picture book is a first introduction to how trees support one another, based on the science detailed in books like The Hidden Life of Trees and Finding the Mother Tree."
– Canadian Teacher
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“We were delighted to welcome Charles Bongers, author of Do Trees Have Mothers?, to speak with our students. Charles was engaging, informative, and wonderfully patient with our curious learners. He asked thoughtful, open-ended questions that encouraged meaningful discussion and sparked a genuine excitement about nature and the interconnectedness of the natural world. His visit left a lasting impression on both students and teachers, inspiring us all to look more closely at the life around us. We are grateful for his time and passion, and we highly recommend him as a speaker for any school or educational setting."
Kate Wilder, Wren Directress, OMS Montessori - Ottawa
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"I am pleased to share my positive experience following a recent author visit with Charles Bongers. The focus on trees was so beneficial to our primary students and their learning. Charles engaged our students through interactive storytelling and informative discussions. His visit deepened our students' understanding of nature and sparked their curiosity. His ability to make complex topics accessible and interesting was particularly noteworthy. I would recommend Charles to any school seeking enriching author visits that align with curriculum goals."
– Laura Mustard / Librarian, St Clement's School - Toronto
"We were thrilled to welcome Charles to share his story with our Grade 3 classes and we were amazed at how many cross-curricular links our students made with reading, science, and art. The storybook will become a reference point for so many topics throughout our school year. Above all, it was encouraging to see young students view nature in a different way, and hopefully, their developing understanding of the interconnectedness that trees bring to our world will guide their actions as they grow older."
– Darren Donahue - BFA, BA, BEd, OCT/ Grade 3 Teacher, Crescent School - Toronto
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"An engaging, effectively illustrated introduction to a rarely covered nature subject for young readers."
– Kirkus
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“This book will help a child to build a lifelong connection to nature by learning about the secret and tender life of trees and the magical web of life that surrounds and supports us.”
―Tara Zupancic, MPH, Public Health Scientist
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