green reads

Next week sees the start of Children's Book Week on 6th October. I thought I'd post about some of my favourite green reads for children.

1. The Lorax by Dr. Seuss

This was first published in 1971 and as well as being a great example of Seuss' intermiable rhyming style and fantastical illustrations, it is a book with a serious ecological message.

2. One World by Michael Foreman

This beautifully illustrated picture book addresses the problem of ocean pollution using the tiny ecosystem of a rockpool to illustrate its point.

3. Brother Eagle, Sister Sky by Chief Seattle

This book contains the powerful message from Chief Seattle of the Northwest Indian Nations speaking to the American government, 150 years ago. He believed that all life was sacred. Reading it makes me cry.

4. Spirit of the Forest - Tree Tales from Around the World by Eric Maddern

A beautiful cultural book about tree folklore from Wales to Nepal. A magical spellbinging collection.

5. Willie's Garden by Myra McGee

An inspiring tale of how one boy grows all his own fruit and vegetables, and keeps finding room for more!

6. Dear Greenpeace by Simon James

A whimsical collection of letters, which presents an introduction to this environmental charity in a humorous and enlightening manner.

7. The Flower by John Light

A mesmerising and yet slightly eerie picture book about the importance and vitality of plantlife on our planet.

8. Herb, The Vegetarian Dragon by Jules Bass

I really like the character Herb - he's a great gentle advocate for vegetarianism - he even practices NVC!

9. Big Mama Makes the World by Phllis Root

The creation story with a difference. I love this warm, joyful book with a central character that is both larger than life and down-to-earth.

10. The Song of the Trees by Kenneth Steven and Lily Moon

A beautiful story of redemption about a young girl who refuses to leave her beloved trees. A picture book with a deeper message.

There are many more of course - this is just an off-the-top-of my head list, which doesn't include the fantastic non-fiction books about environmental issues for children. Maybe I'll write about those another day...