Must-Read Children's Books about the Environment
In a world where the rhythms of nature increasingly beckon our attention and care, children's literature emerges as a powerful ally in instilling environmental consciousness from an early age. These stories not only captivate young imaginations but also nurture an understanding of the delicate balance we must maintain with our planet.
Let’s embark on a journey through these pages to inspire, educate, and empower the young minds of today to be the environmental champions of tomorrow!
Children’s books about the environment for toddlers
Busy Recycle
Push, pull and slide the tabs to help clean up the Earth in Busy Recycle! Watch the recycling truck do its work, reuse materials to make a rocket and recycle your waste in this fun book about helping the planet.
Eco Warriors: Discover Amazing People
Discover the environmental heroes who are changing our world in My First Heroes: Eco Warriors! Push, pull and slide the scenes to find out about Greta Thunberg, David Attenborough, Isatou Ceesay and John Muir, and be inspired by their incredible work.
Look After Us
by Rod Campbell
Look After Us is the perfect first book to start talking to very young children about wildlife conservation and how important it is for us all to look after the natural world, from tigers and orangutans to elephants and camels.
'Though toddlers might not understand the concept of endangered animals and conservation, they absolutely do understand the concept of looking after the things they love, and most toddlers love animals.' - BookTrust
Children’s books about the environment for ages 3-6
Too Much Stuff
Shortlisted for the Yoto Kate Greenaway Medal 2022
From the creator of modern classic Meerkat Mail, this warm, funny story about the dangers of having too much stuff, features a host of gorgeous animal characters including Pete the badger, star of Emily Gravett's award-winning book Tidy and Bothered By Bugs, set in the same forest.
The Girl Who LOVES Bugs
A beautiful, bug-filled story about following your dreams, and the unconditional love of family. With ideas and tips at the back for looking after some of your own bugs (outside!).
I am Oliver the Otter
The perfect gift for nature lovers of all ages, I am Oliver the Otter is a heart-warming, rhyming story with an urgent message.
'The book issues an important plea to children to help look after waterways and free them from pollution. It is sure to delight children aged two to 10.' - The Herald
Children’s books about the environment for ages 7-9
Saving Sorya – Chang and the Sun Bear
Winner of the 2023 Yoto Carnegie Medal for Illustration
Written by wildlife activist and scientist Trang Nguyen, Saving Sorya: Chang and the Sun Bear is an inspirational graphic-novel adventure, based on a true story about a young conservationist who overcomes the odds to save a sun bear.
My Heart Was a Tree
Discover the beauty and wonder of trees in this stunningly illustrated collection of poetry and stories celebrating trees and what they mean to the world around us . . .
Song of the Dolphin Boy
From award-winning and beloved children's author Elizabeth Laird, Song of the Dolphin Boy is a moving adventure about the impact of plastic pollution on our seas.
'Song of the Dolphin Boy is such a beautiful, important, heartfelt book. I loved every page.' - Lauren St John
Children’s books about the environment for ages 9-11
Greenwild: The World Behind The Door
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the Greenwild, in this enchanting fantasy with an environmental twist. Open the door to a spellbinding world where the wilderness is alive and a deep magic rises from the earth itself . . .
'An eco-thriller novel every child should read' - The Telegraph
'Greenwild is a thrilling adventure that takes seed in your imagination and runs wild!' - M. G. Leonard, author of Beetle Boy
Wilding: An illustrated guide to letting nature back in- an Illustrated Guide
Wilding: How to Bring Wildlife Back - An Illustrated Guide is a stunningly beautiful gift book written by Isabella Tree, which tells the story of the Knepp Estate in West Sussex. The book encourages you to slow down and observe the natural world around you, understand the connections between species and habitats, and the huge potential for life right on your doorstep.
'Perfect for anyone looking to make the life of even a hedgehog a little easier' – Daily Mail
Journey to the River Sea
A joyous Amazon adventure set in the lush nature of Brazil, Journey to the River Sea is filled with mystery and extraordinary characters.
'The most perfect children's book . . . captivatingly told, funny and moving' – Sunday Times
Out There in the Wild
A stunning poetry gift book celebrating the natural world, illustrated by Diana Catchpole.
'Sometimes a book comes along that stops you in your tracks. It is beautiful, intelligent, accessible, deeply moving. Fantastic writing, fantastic art. A book for everyone.' - David Almond