Forest Bath by Kirsten Leestma

A Gentle Invitation to Slow Down: New Children’s Book Encourages Young Readers to Explore Nature with All Their Senses

TRAVERSE CITY, MICHIGAN—Breathe iiiiinnnnn. Breathe ouuutttt. Discover the calming and restorative practice of shinrin-yoku in this delightful debut children’s book by author and teacher Kirsten Leestma. Forest Bath (Nightlight Stories, February 10, 2026)  invites young readers and their families to step away from the screens, breathe deeply, and discover the simple joys of taking in our environment. Inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, the book offers a playful, sensory-rich journey through forests, parks, or even your own backyard.

Forest Bath

Originating in Japan in the 1980s, forest bathing refers to the restorative act of immersing yourself in natural surroundings and mindfully engaging the senses. At once refreshing and meditative, this practice is beneficial for both children and adults. Research shows that slowing down and feeling our connection with nature can lower stress, boost moods, and support overall well-being. Forest Bath gently introduces this concept to children through lyrical text and darling illustrations, encouraging readers to breathe deeply and explore their environment with curiosity.

The Origins of the Practice

Open the pages, and immerse yourself in nature! Run, skip, splash, sniff, stomp, and rest your body in the world of Forest Bath, then take those practices to your favorite outdoor nook. Through repeated refrains and joyful actions, Kirsten’s story captures the rhythm of a stroll through the woods. Illustrator Maggie Gabel brings the hike to life with vibrant artwork that showcases the textures, colors, and whimsy of the world around us. School librarian Steph Klimmek says Forest Bath is “an ideal read-aloud for children.”

Advance Praise

Advance praise for Forest Bath is positive, with Amy Nielander, author-illustrator and Detroit Writing Room children’s book coach, saying:

“Reading Forest Bath is like taking an actual walk through a delightful forest! It’s an immersive story that engages all the senses and introduces children to the healing power of nature.”

Author, Kirsten Leestma

The Author

Kirsten Leestma is a teacher and writer living in northern Michigan. She loves to read and to be on, near, or in one of the Great Lakes. She quietly adventures close to home and abroad, visits bookstores wherever she goes, and takes a forest bath as often as possible. This is her first picture book.

Illustrator, Maggie Gabel

The Illustrator

Maggie Gabel is a Grand Rapids–based illustrator whose work defines the colorful and whimsical world of Forest Bath. A recent graduate of Kendall College of Art and Design, her digital illustrations bring all the senses of forest bathing to life. When Maggie is not drawing, she enjoys trying new things with the people she loves. Forest Bath is her debut in book illustration.

Preorder your copy of Forest Bath for its February 10, 2026, publication date. This title is a perfect gift for young readers and is sure to delight children and adults alike. For more information about author Kirsten Leestma, visit www.kirstenleestma.com. To see more of illustrator Maggie Gabel’s work, visit www.gabelgobblestudio.com/portfolio. 

The Book

Forest Bath

By Kirsten Leestma

Illustrations by Maggie Gabel

24 pages, 8.5” x 8.5”, Color

BISACS: Juvenile Fiction, Senses & Sensations, Health & Daily Living, Mindfulness & Meditation

ISBN: 978-1-965278-83-3, $24.95 (Hardcover)

ISBN: 978-1-965278-84-0, $17.95 (Softcover)

Publication Date: February 10, 2026

Nightlight Stories, an imprint of  Mission Point Press

Copies are available for preorder at Bookshop.org, Amazon, and other online retailers. On its February 10, 2026  publication date, it will be available for purchase wherever books are sold. For information or to arrange for signings and events, contact the author at kileestma@gmail.com or visit www.kirstenleestma.com.