Lena knew that she didn't have one minute to waste.

She ran straight back to the big oak tree and scrambled up the rope ladder to the top.

Oh, hey, you're back early, Johnny said.

Johnny, we have to do something.

The people at my camp, I just heard them saying they're going to start cutting down all the trees this Friday.

And they're starting with the big oak tree.

Johnny's smiling face changed to a stern one. Friday! And they're starting with the big oak tree!

Johnny's smiling face changed to a stern one.

But this oak tree is the only way to get in and out of the treehouse city!

If they cut this down, come with me, he said.

Johnny started walking and climbing higher into the trees as Lena followed closely behind.

The air was getting cooler as they climbed. The leaves were whispering around them like a secret

choir. Finally, they reached the tallest platform she had ever seen, so high that the moon itself seemed to rest just above the treetops.

Johnny pulled out a horn and he blew it.

And moments later, dozens of kids appeared from around the city

as they began gathering there with lanterns glowing in their hands.

And from this height, Lena could see the entire treehouse city stretched below.

Bridges criss-crossing like spider webs, hammocks swinging gently,

in little fires glowing like stars caught in the branches.

It was the most breathtaking thing she had ever seen.

The boy stepped forward, his patched shirt flapping in the night breeze,

and his voice carried easily over the crowd.

...