Celebrate World Book Day with environmental themed titles for children

By Anders Lorenzen

To mark World Book Day, which the UK and Ireland celebrated on March 6th, we bring you a selection of environmentally focused books to introduce to children.

Aged 3-6 years

We Are Water Protectors

Author Carole Lindstrom and illustrator Michaela Goade’s We Are Water Protectors is a New York Times bestselling picture book that pays tribute to Indigenous-led movements worldwide. It issues an urgent rallying cry to safeguard the Earth‘s water from harm and corruption, inviting young readers everywhere to join the fight.

It can be purchased via this link.

The Girl Who Planted Trees

This award-winning and empowering picture book, The Girl Who Planted Trees by author Caryl Hart and illustrator Anastasia Suvorova, is about a small girl who inspires her village to plant a beautiful forest on a mountain. It highlights the impact of collective action in environmental conservation. ​

It can be purchased via this link.

The Emerald Forest

Set on Indonesia’s tropical island Sumatra, where deforestation has challenged the animals dependent on the tropical rainforest, the Emerald Forest is a picture book by author Catherine Ward and Illustrator Karen Littlewood. This lyrical story follows an Orangutan and her family as they navigate the challenges posed by deforestation in their vibrant rainforest home.

It can be purchased via this link.

Aged 6-11

Anya’s Quest

Author Jasbinder Bilan and illustrator Jane Ray have created an environmental fable, Anya’s Quest, that intertwines Hindu mythology and presents children with a compelling message about protecting nature. We follow Anya on a transformative adventure through threatened forests and rivers, guided by spirit animals. Jane Ray’s stunning illustrations, which depict scenes from Indian mythology, only strengthen this tale. 

It can be purchased via this link.

Aged 9-12

Earth Heroes

In Earth Heroes, author Lily Dyu and Illustrator Jackie Lay introduce young readers to inspiring environmental activists worldwide, showcasing how individual actions can make a significant difference in protecting our planet. ​

It can be purchased via this link.

We recommend our readers to at first seek these books out in local physical bookstores, at first try independent bookstores to give them valuable support in such a competitive space, in this article The Guardian looks at the most iconic independent bookstores in the UK. Quality bookstore chains such as Waterstones, Foyles, Blackwells and Hatchards. If buying online we recommend our advertising partner Bookshop.org.

Anders Lorenzen is the founding Editor of A greener life, a greener world.

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