Tennessee Trees Inspire Mona Batchelor’s Debut Children’s Novel

'Nora T and the Champion Tree' Releases September 29

By Lyndsey Summers, lsummers@mckenziebanner.com • August 17, 2026

From the Aug 18, 2026 e-Edition

Mona Martin Batchelor holds a copy of "Nora T and the Champion Tree." Photo by Lyndsey Summers/The Banner

In Mona Martin Batchelor's debut children's novel, "Nora T and the Champion Tree," the retired McKenzie High School librarian uses the Tennessee Champion Tree Program to teach young readers about environmental stewardship, family traditions and the power one person has to make a…

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