In honor of Earth Month, we have compiled a selection of our favorite children’s books about reducing waste and caring for the Earth. These books offer practical suggestions for things that kids of all ages can do to protect the earth.
Written by: Patricia MacLachlan
Illustrated by: Francesca Sanna
Recommended Age: 3-5 years
This beautiful book makes Earth come to life through the form of the main character, a young girl named Earth. Through each page, the reader learns all the amazing ways that the Earth provides for us.
It is a lovely read that evokes a sense of Earthly compassion for the reader. There are interactive pop ups and creative shaped pages throughout the book, making this a fun read for story time. With its circular narrative, your young reader will want to read it again and again.
Written by: Todd Parr
Recommended Age: 3-5 years
This story engages the readers in practical instructions on how they can take steps to better care for the Earth, such as recycling, saving leftover food, and conserving water when brushing your teeth. It inspires the reader and gives examples that are easy for children to understand.
Some copies even include a “Go Green” poster, which can be hung on a wall to remind your children every day how they can take practical steps towards protecting our planet.
Written by: Charles Ghigna
Illustrated by: Agnieszka Jatkowska
Recommended Age: 2-4 years
Recycling Is Fun follows a group of friends as they have a fun time recycling different materials together. They also learn how to reuse and donate clothes they no longer need.
With comforting illustrations and a poetic storyline, this charming book encourages and teaches young readers about the importance of reusing and responsibly recycling our waste.
4. What a Waste: Trash, Recycling, and Protecting our Planet
Written by: Jess French
Recommended Age: 4-8 years
This book provides readers with important information on the climate crisis, including statistics presented in easy-to-understand ways. It presents readers with critical facts and serves as a call to action that engages readers to make a change in their communities. Illustrations carry the story throughout, softening the message while also bringing it to light.
Written by: Zoe Tucker
Illustrated by: Zoe Persico
Recommended Age: 6-9 years
This heart-tugging read is inspired by the well-known environmental advocate, Greta Thunberg. The story follows Greta as she advocates for the local wildlife who come to her in desperation as they encounter the repressions of urban sprawl and climate change.
Greta inspires everyone, young and old, with her strength and leadership. This book reminds readers that together, we have the power to make a difference. Collaboratively, we can face the giants and save our planet.
6. 10 Things I Can Do to Help My World
Written and illustrated by: Melanie Walsh
Recommended Age: 3-7 years
This informative book gives clear steps on how we can help take care of our world. From turning off the faucet to unplugging the television, the ten steps in this book will help young readers become more mindful of their habits and encourage them to establish more earth-friendly ones.
Here at Merry Go Rounds, we love our planet Earth, and work every day to do our part to protect it. We hope that the books listed above encourage conversations with your child about the Earth and help to inspire sustainable habits in your home or classroom.
Happy reading, and happy Earth Month!