"Once upon a time, in a cozy river bend, lived a cheerful otter named Ottie. In this heartwarming children's story, Ottie discovers a shiny red apple hanging from a tree. Instead of eating it, she plants the apple in the soft, moist soil, hoping for it to grow. With patience and care, Ottie nurtures the tiny seed, singing and dancing to encourage its growth. As days pass, her dedication is rewarded with the emergence of tiny green sprouts, and eventually, a flourishing apple tree. This beautifully illustrated tale follows Ottie's journey of patience and the joy of sharing. As the tree grows bigger and stronger, paralleling Ottie's own growth, it eventually bears a bounty of bright, juicy apples. Ottie's excitement is contagious as she shares her apples with all her friends, teaching them the value of waiting and nurturing something from the very beginning. 'Ottie's Apple Orchard' is a delightful story that combines themes of patience, care for nature, and the joy of sharing. It's a tale that resonates with young readers, reminding them that sometimes, waiting for something can lead to even greater rewards. The story concludes with a whimsical play on words, leaving all the characters, and its readers, living 'apple-ly ever after.'" Age Range: 3-7 years Key Themes: Patience, Nature, Sharing, Growth, Investing Illustrations: Vibrant and engaging, complementing the story's joyful and educational spirit. Digital watercolor. Author's Note: This book is perfect for parents and educators looking to instill values of patience and the importance of caring for the environment in young children.