With spring in full swing and Earth Day on April 22, we’re reflecting on how to take care for our home– our planet and our minds, bodies and souls. We’ve rounded up some books to inspire meaningful change, whether we are inspired to step into leadership, better manage your emotions or protect the environment.
The Octopus
By Author and illustrator Guojing
Award-winning author and illustrator Guojing is back with another touching, wordless story. Just in time for Earth Day, “The Octopus,” about a little girl who befriends a tiny octopus, teaches readers of all ages how even the smallest creature can create meaningful change in the world. Recommended for ages 3-7. Out April 22.
When the Sun Goes Down
By Greg Pizzoli
Award–winning creator Greg Pizzoli’s new bedtime picture book, “When the Sun Goes Down,” is a sweet meditation on the ritual of sleep. A little girl repeats the question, “where do you go when the sun goes down?” to each critter and animal she sees before eventually making it to bed herself. Recommended for ages 2-5.
Change Your Game: Empowering Young Leaders to Ditch Doubt, Find Their Voice, and Impact the World
By J. Chad Mitchell
In this practical guide for students and young adults, father, coach, teacher, mentor and author J. Chad Mitchell inspires teens to discover their potential and build the confidence they need to step into leadership positions in their communities. Whether on sports teams, in the classroom, at summer camp or beyond, “Change Your Game” helps young people realize they have the power to make a positive impact on their peers.
Get the Wiggles Out: Playful Ways to Embrace Every Feeling
By Anna Anderhagen; illustrated by Hisashi Maeda
Mayo Clinic Press Kids and Sesame Street present “Get the Wiggles Out,” the first in a three part series about everyday feelings. Author Anna Anderhaen weaves fun narratives about familiar characters with expert guidance from May Clinic pediatric psychologist Dr. Emily McTate. Children learn how to recognize, understand and manage their feelings one movement at a time. On Sale April 14.
Kitty Caterpillar
By Annabeth Bondor-Stone & Connor White; illustrated by Brigette Barrager
“Kitty Caterpillar” is a vibrant picture book about a part cat, part caterpillar who loves her cozy indoor life, especially hugs from her favorite human, Hazel. But when Kitty Caterpillar catches glimpse of a beautiful butterfly through the window, she is determined to make her way outside where she discovers more delights of the great outdoors. You can catch authors Annabeth and Connor at LA Times Festival of Books April 18-19 at USC.
Sage Sails the World: A Little Girl’s Journey Across the Great Barrier Reef
By Diamond Spratling; illustrated by Amna Zaki
In her children’s book series “Sage Sails the World,” environmental activist and award-winning storyteller Diamond Spratling brings climate education to life through the tales of seven-year-old Sage and her dog Benji. In the first book, inspired by stories of her Grandma Jean’s grand adventures, Sage and Benji travel to the South Pole where they learn the realities of climate change. They are inspired to save the polar bears and learn how small actions can still make a big impact. In the second book, “Sage Sails the World: A Little Girl’s Journey Across the Great Barrier Reef,” Sage and Benji travel to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef where they are once again confronted by the consequences of global warming. Sage sets out to restore the reef’s delicate ecosystem, encouraging everyone to use less energy, plant trees and pick up trash to protect the ocean.
For more book recommendations, check out our March Book Corner.
