The 6 Best Children's Environment Books
Book RaiderIf there's one thing kiddos are notorious for, it's asking questions. And if your tiny humans are anything like mine, they're coming up to you, wild-eyed and curious, asking things like 'Mom, why is the sky blue?' or 'Dad, where do trees come from?' Sometimes, you might stumble on an answer, but other times, you might blink blankly and wish for the 400th time you'd paid more attention in science class.
So, what's Plan B when Google fails you or when you're tired of making up scientific-ish mumbo jumbo? Simple - children's environment books. Packed full of kooky illustrations and bite-sized nuggets of planet wisdom, these literary gems make teaching our littles about Mother Earth a breeze. From the driest deserts to the stormiest seas, our carefully compiled list of children's environment books aims to answer all your kids' mind-boggling questions. And hey, you might even learn a thing or two yourself.
Water is Water: A Book About the Water Cycle
by Miranda Paul
Why Water is Water: A Book About the Water Cycle is on this list: If the idea of teaching your little ones about the water cycle without putting them to sleep sounds impossible, this book is here to prove you wrong. It fits our list perfectly because it’s all about appreciating the environment, starting with something as simple yet essential as water.
This addictive read is all about the magic of water and its journey. The book uses simple rhymes and engaging illustrations to show how water transforms from rain to steam to snow, and eventually ends back where it started. Alongside brilliant illustrations, this book takes children on an enlightening journey through the transformation of water, making them realize just how magical and precious our environment is.
What readers like: Young readers - and let’s be honest, their parents too - really love the simple, playful language and stunning illustrations. They find it appeals to the imagination and tickles the brain, sparking lots of questions about nature and the world around us. It’s a great conversation starter and a charming bedtime story. Oh, and apart from the whole environment education thing, it's also quite useful for explaining why they need to take their raincoats and umbrellas when it's cloudy.
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The Bear's Garden
by Marcie Colleen
Why The Bear's Garden is on this list: The Bear's Garden introduces children to the importance of creating and nurturing green spaces, even in an urban setting, which ties in perfectly with our list of best children's environment books.
Our book is about a girl's imaginative projection of a bear who cultivates a stunning city garden from an abandoned lot, when she herself moves away. It's all about the thrill of seeing a concrete jungle transform into a blooming paradise
What readers like: Kids and parents alike cherish this book for its beautiful illustrations, heartwarming storyline and the creative way it emphasizes on the nurturing side of nature. A recurring favorite seems to be the ongoing theme of turning something overlooked into something beautiful and the chance to learn about the life cycle of plants - straight from a bear's paw.
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Sofia Valdez, Future Prez
by Andrea Beaty
Why Sofia Valdez, Future Prez is on this list: This brilliant book is not just about a young girl's ambition to become President, but also emphasizes the importance of stepping up, taking responsibility and improving the environment for our future generation.
This gem from Andrea Beaty tells the story of second grader Sofia Valdez, who fights against all odds to turn a junk-filled land into a park. It's a heartening tale about environment, community, activism, and persistence, ultimately making a point about how even the smallest steps can make a big difference in our world.
What readers like: Readers love Sofia's energy and optimism, and the book's message of environmental care resonates with kids and adults alike. The beautiful illustrations make the story come alive, and the engaging plot makes it a page turner. Overall, it's a perfect blend of fun, educative, and inspirational for children.
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Goodbye Autumn, Hello Winter
by Kenard Pak
Why Goodbye Autumn, Hello Winter is on this list: Well, this book is a beautiful tale of the transition between seasons, effortlessly weaving in important environmental lessons about the cycle of nature. It's like attending a fun, animated lecture on ecosystems, minus the long PowerPoint presentation.
This book follows two siblings on their walk through changing landscapes and shifting weather. They say their farewells to all the living things making way for winter and greet the new ones coming into view. It's an enchanting depiction of Mother Nature's shift from autumn to winter, teaching kids not just about the changing environment but also the value of observing and appreciating its varied nuances.
What readers like: Readers adore this book! They love the vibrant artwork and the personification of the elements. Bonus points for its soft, soothing storytelling that lulls kids to sleep faster than you can say 'ecosystem'. Plus, it's a great way for kids to learn about patience, transitions, and the art of saying goodbye and hello.
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The Boy Who Grew a Forest: The True Story of Jadav Payeng
by Sophia Gholz
Why The Boy Who Grew a Forest: The True Story of Jadav Payeng is on this list: If your kiddo has a thing for saving the planet, they'll love this true story about a young man who single-handedly reforested a barren island. It's equal parts educational and engaging, making it a no-brainer for our list of best children's environment books.
Just imagine being 8-years-old and deciding to start your very own forest. That's exactly what Jadav Payeng did in his homeland of Assam, India. This captivating true tale chronicles Jadav's journey, from his first bamboo planting to his creation of a 1,300 acre forest teeming with life. It's an inspiring message about the power each of us holds to make significant environmental changes.
What readers like: Parents and kids alike are raving about how this book manages to be both an adventure story and a practical lesson in environmental responsibility. The vivid illustrations bring Jadav’s journey to life, and Sophia Gholz balances facts with heart, keeping young readers hooked till the end. It’s the sort of book that makes kids want to go plant a tree (or a thousand) on their own.
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The Daring Dozen: The Twelve Who Walked on the Moon
by Suzanne Slade
Why The Daring Dozen: The Twelve Who Walked on the Moon is on this list: While 'moon' might not be 'earth', learning about those who left our planet provides young minds with the curiosity and perspective needed when thinking about our own environment. The voyages to the moon serve as examples of the scientific adventures that are possible, with a vision to protect and love our planet, starting at an early age.
This book tells tales of 12 brave individuals who took a stroll where no one else had done before, on the moon. These astronauts share their experiences in an engaging and relatable way, demystifying space travel and fostering a love for exploration and discovery. Beyond just the moon, they also look back at the Earth, providing a bird's eye view of our beautiful green planet, serving as a subtle reminder of the importance of preserving and cherishing it.
What readers like: Kids love this book because it's like being on an adventure with some cool, helmet-wearing friends. Parents are fans too, as it provides a gateway for them to talk about the importance of caring for the environment. Plus, the realistic illustrations certainly don't hurt either. It's perfect for bedtime reading, or anytime when you and your little one want to fantasize about walking on the moon.
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