There's no denying that the world is increasingly shaped by environmental challenges. This makes instilling a sense of responsibility for our planet in the hearts of the younger generation crucial. Fortunately, a growing number of children's books are tackling the topic of climate change, making it accessible and engaging for young readers. In this blog post, we'll explore 10 outstanding books that not only educate children about the realities of climate change but also inspire them to become environmental stewards.

1. How Do We Stop Climate Change?

"How Do We Stop Climate Change?" is a thoughtfully crafted book that introduces young readers to the complexities of climate change in an accessible and engaging manner. Tom Jackson's narrative is complemented by Laurent Richard's vibrant illustrations, creating a dynamic learning experience. The book covers a range of topics, from the greenhouse effect to renewable energy solutions, making it an excellent starting point for discussions about environmental responsibility. Perfect for children of all ages.

2. Climate Action: What Happened and What We Can Do (Hardcover)

Seymour Simon takes young readers on a journey through the history of climate action in "Climate Action." This hardcover book not only provides a historical perspective on environmental movements but also offers practical tips on what children can do to make a positive impact. The accessible language and engaging illustrations make it a valuable resource for parents and educators alike.

Reading Climate Action: What Happened and What We Can Do is the perfect introduction not only to the dramatic effects of climate change, but to the solutions. Learn how our behavior and actions have led us to this point, hear from kids around the world dealing with extreme storms, wildfires, and sea level rise, and discover what scientists, youth activists, and ordinary citizens are doing to protect their communities. Divided into eight sections for easy browsing and with over fifty photographs, captions, charts, and graphs, this nonfiction book is an excellent choice to share in the classroom and for homeschooling for kids ages 6 and up.

3. Activists Assemble Save Your Planet

In "Activists Assemble Save Your Planet," Ben Hoare  introduces young readers to the concept of activism and the power of collective action. The book explores various environmental issues and highlights the achievements of young activists around the world. Hoare's narrative empowers children to recognize their potential in creating positive change, making it an inspiring read for budding environmentalists.

Activists Assemble ― Save Your Planet details the major current environmental issues, why they occur, and how they can be resolved. Written by the former Feature Editor of BBC Wildlife Magazine Ben Hoare and beautifully illustrated by Jade Orlando, discover how and why the world is getting hotter, the consequences of deforestation, and the impact of too many vehicles.

4. Greta's Story: The Schoolgirl Who Went on Strike to Save the Planet (Hardcover)

Valentina Camerini's "Greta's Story" chronicles the journey of Greta Thunberg, the teenage environmental activist who sparked a global movement. The hardcover edition provides an in-depth look at Greta's dedication to climate action and her journey from a lone protester to a symbol of youth-led environmental advocacy.

The inspiring true story of Greta Thunberg, a young eco-activist whose persistence sparked a global movement. You are never too young to make a difference. Ever since she learned about climate change, Greta Thunberg couldn't understand why politicians weren't treating it as an emergency. In August 2018, temperatures in Sweden reached record highs, fires raged across the country, and fifteen-year-old Greta decided to stop waiting for political leaders to take action.

This book serves as an inspiration for young readers, demonstrating the impact one person can have on the world.

5. Kids Fight Plastic

if you are after a hands-on guide that empowers children to take action against plastic pollution, then "Kids Fight Plastic" by Martin Dorey is perfect. Filled with practical tips, experiments, and challenges, this book turns young readers into environmental warriors. Dorey's interactive approach makes learning about the impact of plastic on the environment both educational and enjoyable.

Read this essential book and find out how you can become a #2minutesuperhero by completing 50 missions to fight plastic at home, school and on your days out.

Informative, practical and positive, this guide for children is written by Martin Dorey, anti-plastic campaigner and author of the bestselling No. More. Plastic. Martin is the founder of the Beach Clean Network and the #2minutebeachclean movement and believes that small actions add up to make a big difference.

6. Stand Up Speak Up

Andrew Joyner's "Stand Up Speak Up" is a visually captivating picture book that tells the story of a young girl who stands up for the environment. The book not only addresses climate change but also emphasizes the importance of courage and resilience in the face of challenges. Joyner's illustrations complement the narrative, making it a compelling read for younger children.

7. Elliot's Arctic Surprise

In "Elliot's Arctic Surprise," Catherine Barr introduces young readers to the Arctic ecosystem and the impact of climate change on polar bears. The book follows Elliot, a polar bear, on a journey to raise awareness about the melting Arctic ice. Barr skillfully combines storytelling with factual information, creating an engaging narrative that educates children about the fragility of the Arctic environment.

A great picture story book with an environmental message, developed in conversation with Greenpeace UK. When one little boy discovers a message from Father Christmas asking for help to save his home from the oil drillers, he hitches a lift from a kind old sailor and together with children from around the world, they set sail to confront the oil men. Elliot desperately wants to save the Arctic and stop Christmas being cancelled, but will the oil drillers back down and what is the old sailors big surprise? 

9. Flotsam

David Wiesner writes a wordless picture book that invites children to explore the wonders of the ocean. Through captivating illustrations, Wiesner tells the story of a young boy who discovers a mysterious camera washed ashore. "Flotsam"  sparks curiosity about marine life and encourages children to appreciate the beauty of the natural world, fostering a sense of responsibility for its preservation.

10. This Pretty Planet

Tom Chapin and John Forster's "This Pretty Planet" is a songbook that celebrates the beauty of our planet and emphasizes the importance of environmental stewardship. The book includes sheet music and lyrics, making it a delightful resource for parents and educators who want to integrate music into their discussions about climate change. The accompanying CD adds an interactive element, allowing children to sing along to the uplifting tunes.

Based on the touching song “This Pretty Planet” by Tom Chapin and John Forster, this hopeful and whimsically illustrated picture book celebrates the pretty planet we call home.

Winds blow. Tides flow.
Shooting stars descend.
Our lives begin, middle, and end on
This pretty planet.

From icy tundras to sandy beaches, lush forests to tall mountains, this exuberant picture book journeys around the globe and presents the natural wonders of the planet with a contagious sense of awe and whimsy. Young readers will get lost in the detailed illustrations as the narration serves as a gentle reminder of why we must care for and protect our pretty planet.

We hope you have enjoyed this selection. There's plenty more in out bookshop collection for books on Nature & the Natural World but  these 10 books stand out as powerful tools for educating and inspiring young minds about climate change.

The engaging narratives, interactive guides and inspiring stories of real-life activists, each book offers a unique approach to nurturing environmental awareness. By incorporating these titles into a child's home library, parents and educators can plant the seeds for a generation of environmentally conscious individuals ready to tackle the challenges of our changing world.