BY GREEN BOOKS BLOG, 17 FEBRUARY, 2021
Let’s unearth some Canadian children’s books that encourage kids to discover the wonders of nature. These books get kids thinking about the power we each have to initiate positive changes in the world. Wherever possible, I have suggested #IReadCanadian Kindle books over paperback to save more trees and so they are easy to download at the last minute for busy parents and teachers.
Happy #IReadCanadianDay!
One Well: The Story of Water on Earth
By Rochelle Strauss (Author), Rosemary Woods (Illustrator)
Water has the power to change everything — a single splash can sprout a seed, quench a thirst, provide a habitat, generate energy and sustain life. How we treat the water in the well will affect every species on the planet, now and for years to come. One Well shows how every one of us has the power to conserve and protect our global well.
Every raindrop, lake, underground river and glacier is part of a single global well. Discover the many ways water is used around the world, and what kids can do to protect it.
Themes explored:
- water conservation
- the sources of water, and importance to all living things
In the Red Canoe
by Leslie A. Davidson (Author), Laura Bifano (Illustrator)
“The watery world goes sliding by. Out paddles dip and swing.”
Ducks and frogs, swallows and dragonflies, beaver lodges and lily pads—a multitude of wonders enchant the child narrator in this tender, beautifully illustrated picture book. A tribute to those fragile, wild places that still exist, In the Red Canoe celebrates the bond between grandparent and grandchild and invites nature lovers of all ages along for the ride.
Environmental themes explored:
- exploring together
- the wonder of nature
The Wish Trees
By Andrea Koehle Jones (Author), Alicia Padrón (Illustrator)
“I’m planting a tree to teach me to gather strength from my deepest roots.”
Inspiring and uplifting, The Wish Trees is rooted in the idea that every child can help make the world a better place. Pre-readers and early readers will love turning the pages to reveal children planting Wish Trees and making wishes. Kids will discover the wonder of trees and enjoy searching for different animals and signs with each new page. Thoughtful, empowering and beautifully written by Canadian writer Andrea Koehle Jones, The Wish Trees features adorable and engaging illustrations by talented Venezuelan children’s book illustrator Alicia Padrón.
Environmental themes explored:
- tree planting
- activism (children and animals around the world working together to make the world a better place)
On Our Nature Walk: Our First Talk About Our Impact on the Environment
by Jillian Roberts (Author), Jane Heinrichs (Illustrator), Bob McDonald (Foreword)
This illustrated nonfiction picture book by child psychologist Dr. Jillian Roberts introduces children to the important topic of the environment. This inquiry-focused book using age-appropriate language and tone will help children shape their understanding of the natural world and how they participate in protecting it.
Environmental themes explored:
- the importance of spending time outdoors
- collaboration and innovation
All book picks and/or reviews by Andrea Koehle Jones Green Books Blog
Andrea receives review copies from publishers and authors from time to time, with no implied promise that the books will be reviewed favourably or at all.