The Paper Forest

I noticed a thick pop-up picture book resting shut near the base of the bookshelf. Gripping the heavy cover with both hands, I eased the front board open slow and steady. With a crisp paper rustle, an intricate folded tree suddenly rose upright, unfurling its layered green canopy right into the air! I gently patted the sturdy paper trunk to test its balance, and it held completely firm without wobbling. Every paper branch cast a delicate shadow across the open page. I sat right beside the paper roots, marveling at how flat creases could turn into such a tall, quiet shelter.