Whether it is Earth Day or not, you are probably searching for ways to demonstrate to your little dears why taking care of the environment helps preserve a better future for the next generations and the vibrancy of planet Earth.
Kids appreciate our planet and its precious resources when they can touch, feel, and see the natural world. When they are not outside, children can still stretch their understanding of nature through books that treasure the wonders of the world around them. Whether for every day or Earth Day, here are some fantastic children’s books that facilitate love and stewardship of planet Earth.
Below are some close reads for children for a better planet Earth.
Seven Must-Read Books For Kids For A Better Earth
Easter: McEaster Valley. This children’s book by Walter Hoge celebrates the value of a brave and generous heart. He encourages readers to ponder the majesty of Mother Earth in this brief story and picture a remarkable life well lived without compensation. This fascinating parable leads him and his dog in transit through an otherworldly valley into the Sierra mountains, bringing them to a far-off place where a stranger guides them deep into a mountain cavern and another world. It is a spot of serenity, tranquility, and remarkable elegance. It is a spot that Hoge wants to abandon once he returns to the foothills at dawn and makes his way home. In this, he inspires readers to consider decisions based on the inherent order of events in their lives rather than individual ones based on desires or whims. Dedicated to his children, Hoge’s universal message is that, yes, the wealthiest life anyone should expect is to live a life of commitment without any expectation of benefits or monetary benefit.
Saving American Beach. This beautiful story written by Heidi Tyline King is about an environmentalist from being an opera singer who saved a beach. When MaVynee was a girl, most beaches were for white people. So her grandfather bought American Beach and made it into a space where African Americans could relish its sunny shores. MaVynee works to preserve this vital piece of her history when the beach falls into disrepair. Combined with Holmes’ gorgeous illustrations, this book tells us that we can all impact the world around us.
Wonder Walkers. In this stunning book, Micha Archer combines gorgeous collage illustrations and poetic language to encourage readers to explore nature’s many mysteries. After reading, children (including parents, too!) will want to get outside and launch on their wonder walk!
Don’t Let Them Disappear. Fresh from her bestselling picture book, She Persisted, Chelsea Clinton turns a thoughtful and keen eye to the plight of endangered animals across the planet — and what one can do to save and keep them from disappearing. Full of endearing facts about beloved creatures, it is an eye-opening read for animal lovers everywhere.
The Water Princess. Before being a supermodel and activist, Georgie Badiel walked miles daily with a heavy pot perched on her head to bring home drinking water for her family. Daniel grew up in Burkina Faso, one of many places that lack clean drinking water. In striking spirited prose and illustrations, this book will deepen kids’ awareness of a crucial environmental issue.
Here We Are. Written as a literary welcome to the world for Olivers Jeffers’s newborn son, Here We Are is a beautifully illustrated guide to living on Earth and being a good person. Jeffers walks little ones through the infinite wonders of our world — from the sea, land, and sky to animals and people of all sizes and shapes. He ends his tour with a gentle reminder to look after Earth, as we’re all on this planet together, and it’s all we have.
The Magic And Mystery Of Trees. Did you know trees take care of each other and the whole forest is connected? Before I read this book, I did not either. The Magic and Mystery of Trees take kids on an appealing journey of exploration, showing them just how unique these mighty organisms are. This gorgeously illustrated book will give you a new appreciation for a tree’s impressive capabilities.
Grab a copy of these books and enjoy reading to your little totes!
The Happy Hammock 