Inspiring Books on Climate Change
Inspiring books on climate change and environmentalism have become increasingly important in shaping the perspectives of young readers. Children are not only influenced by their caregivers but also by the books they read.
Children quickly move beyond caregivers being their primary role models and influencers. Much of their expanded view of the world is seen through the eyes of a new set of influencers, friends, artists, entertainers, sports icons, and of course authors.
Many children are vociferous readers and the books they read shape the adults they become. Books have a unique ability to connect with children on a deeper level compared to other forms of media. Books allow children to immerse themselves in new perspectives and exciting experiences, dramatically expanding their world view.
In this third blog in the series, I want to share inspiring books on climate change and the environment and our responsibility as custodians of our planet. Children, even as young as three or four seek out purpose and start to think about their own place in the universe.
As parents and caregivers, it is important to encourage children to explore their thoughts and feelings about purpose and meaning. This is most frequently done through conversations, and by reading books together, or discussing books children are reading.
By providing children with opportunities to think about their purpose and place in the world, they can strengthen their sense of self-awareness and build confidence. This can lead to greater success in school and other areas of life, as well as help them make positive contributions to their communities.
Ultimately, helping children find meaning and purpose in their lives is one of the most important things we do as adults.
- Peter Wohlleben’s book, Can You Hear the Trees Talking, Discovering the Hidden Life of the Forest, is a basic introduction for children in grades 3 – 6 to the science behind how trees work.
- The Great Kapok Tree by Lynne Cherry tells the story of a man who visits the rainforest to cut down the trees but falls asleep under the shade of a kapok tree. While he sleeps, the animals living in the forest teach him about the many benefits of the trees, highlighting the importance of protecting them.
- The Magic School Bus Gets Eaten is a book that takes the reader on an exciting adventure into the ocean to explore the food chain and how everything is interconnected. This book teaches kids about the importance of taking care of all living things and the impact humans have on the environment.
- The Water Princess by Susan Verde tells the story of a young girl who must travel a long distance to collect clean water for her village. It teaches kids about the importance of access to clean water and how lack of access affects communities around the world.
- The Earth Book by Todd Parr teaches kids easy ways to help take care of the planet, with fun and colorful illustrations that inspire them to take action.
- Sky Watch, The Legend of the Summer Snowflake by Professor Stork is a best seller I wrote three years ago tells the story of a team of cloud heroes that save a baby dolphin and help clean up a plastic patch in the ocean.
The Tantrum That Saved the World by Megan Herbert and Michael E. Mann is a story about a group of kids who, after seeing the effects of climate change on their world, take action to save the planet.
Climate Change: Discover How It Impacts Spaceship Earth by Joshua Sneideman and Erin Twamley is an educational book that explains the science of climate change and offers practical solutions for reducing our impact on the environment.
These books and many others like them are great resources for introducing children to the concept of a healthy world. They show that anyone, regardless of age or background, can make a positive impact on the world around them.
In short, the impact of literature on children cannot be overstated. Books shape who children become by exposing them to new ideas, perspectives and experiences, and by helping them develop important cognitive and social skills. Parents, teachers and caregivers should encourage children to read widely and help them choose books that challenge and inspire them to think outside the box.
In addition to his book, SkyWatch, The Legend of the Summer Snowflake, Professor Stork has also started a community and a movement dedicated to teaching children about purpose, empathy, and leadership through children’s books. By joining Professor Stork’s community, you’ll have access to a wealth of resources, including tips on how to inspire your child’s creativity, how to cultivate empathy and compassion, and how to foster leadership skills in children. You’ll also have access to a vibrant community of like-minded parents, educators, and caregivers who are passionate about using children’s books to shape young minds and make a positive impact on the world. So why not join the movement today and help inspire the next generation of young leaders?
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