It’s Really Hard to be a Tree

My Thoughts on It’s Really Hard to be a Tree

"It's Really Hard to be a Tree" is a novel that completely charmed me. I went in expecting a light read, and I got that, but I also found myself unexpectedly invested in the characters and their unique journey. It's the kind of story that leaves you with a warm, fuzzy feeling and a lingering smile.

First Impressions

The premise alone is intriguing: a tree spirit trying to navigate the human world and, even more bewildering, human relationships. I was immediately drawn to the protagonist, Xiao Tong. His naivete and genuine desire to understand humans, particularly his childhood friend Xing Lie, made him incredibly endearing. The initial chapters set a delightful tone, blending slice-of-life moments with supernatural elements seamlessly.

What Works Well

The core of this novel's appeal lies in its cuteness. Xiao Tong's journey of self-discovery and his earnest attempts to assimilate into human society are both hilarious and heartwarming. I especially loved his interactions with Xing Lie. Their dynamic, evolving from childhood friendship to something deeper, felt natural and engaging. Xing Lie is not the typical overbearing male lead, which I appreciated. His patience, frankness, and playful teasing added another layer of enjoyment to the story. The romance is sweet and fluffy, with just a touch of angst to keep things interesting. It’s a testament to the author's skill that they managed to create such a compelling relationship in a relatively short story. I also found the ending to be incredibly satisfying and wholesome, leaving me with a sense of closure.

Areas of Concern

Honestly, my biggest complaint, and one echoed by other readers, is that the story is too short! I wanted more time to explore Xiao Tong and Xing Lie's relationship and see Xiao Tong fully embrace his human life. A few readers mentioned that Xing Lie’s confession felt a bit rushed, and I can see that point. Perhaps a bit more development of their mutual feelings before the confession would have enhanced the impact. There was also a mention of a contradiction regarding Xiao Tong's lifespan, which is a valid point.

Final Verdict

Despite its brevity and minor pacing issues, "It's Really Hard to be a Tree" is a delightful and heartwarming read that I wholeheartedly recommend. If you're looking for a sweet, fluffy story with a unique premise and endearing characters, this is definitely worth your time. Be prepared for a major dose of cuteness!