Earth Day is a wonderful opportunity to educate kids about the planet and the world around them, and to appreciate and understand how the Earth works. Earth Day holds a special place in my heart, as I was inspired as a child to follow a path to make the earth a better place. I continued on to pursue Master’s Degree in Environmental Studies.  I always strive to be eco-friendly and to spread the word and educate others.

This is a fun day to celebrate, from doing activities to learning more about how we can be more eco-friendly in our day to day activities. There are lots of great books you can share with kids of all ages on Earth Day.  There are so many books out there you can utilize, from general Earth Day books to anything that has to do with being environmentally friendly.

You can search for specific topics that would be good to read about.  This could be learning about famous environmentalists (e.g. Rachel Carson) to composting or solar energy.

Since Earth Day is in April, we usually do some planting and learning about how plants grow.  To start, there are lots of great books that are a good way to start learning about how to grow things.

Here are some wonderful Earth Day books for kids that celebrate nature, inspire environmental stewardship, and introduce important themes about protecting the planet:

“The Lorax” by Dr. Seuss (ages 6-9)

This classic story tells the tale of the Lorax, a creature who “speaks for the trees” and fights to protect his world from pollution and deforestation. Dr. Seuss’s rhyme and illustrations help young readers understand the impact of environmental harm.

“We Are Water Protectors” by Carole Lindstrom (ages 3-6)

Inspired by Indigenous-led movements to protect water, this beautiful book celebrates the importance of water conservation and the bravery it takes to stand up for nature. The illustrations are vivid and meaningful, teaching young readers to value Earth’s resources.

“10 Things I Can Do to Help My World” by Melanie Walsh (ages 3-7)

This interactive book is full of simple, practical actions kids can take to help the planet, like turning off lights, recycling, and picking up litter. It’s an empowering book that shows children that small actions can make a big difference.

“The Earth Book” by Todd Parr (ages 3-7)

With bold, colorful illustrations and simple language, this book teaches kids about taking care of the planet. It explains concepts like recycling and water conservation in a way that’s accessible and fun.

“I Can Save the Earth!: One Little Monster Learns to Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle” by Alison Inches (ages 4-8)

Max, a little green monster, learns how to be more eco-friendly in this fun story. Kids learn alongside Max about reducing, reusing, and recycling through engaging illustrations and a relatable character.

“Compost Stew: An A to Z Recipe for the Earth” by Mary McKenna Siddals (ages 4-8)

This rhyming alphabet book introduces children to composting, explaining what can and cannot go into a compost bin. It’s a creative way to teach kids how composting helps reduce waste and enrich the soil.

“The Curious Garden” by Peter Brown (ages 4-8)

In this story, a young boy named Liam discovers a small, neglected garden and helps it grow. The garden spreads throughout the city, transforming it into a green oasis. This story shows the beauty of nature and how small actions can lead to big changes.

“Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth” by Oliver Jeffers (ages 4-8)

This book introduces young readers to the beauty of the Earth and the importance of caring for it. With humor and gentle reminders, the book highlights how interconnected we all are with the planet and its inhabitants.

“Thank You, Earth: A Love Letter to Our Planet” by April Pulley Sayre (ages 4-8)

This visually stunning book combines photographs of nature with poetic text, inviting kids to reflect on the wonders of the natural world. It’s a reminder to appreciate Earth’s beauty and abundance.

“What a Waste: Trash, Recycling, and Protecting our Planet” by Jess French (ages 5-9)

This nonfiction book explains the environmental issues related to waste and pollution, with practical ideas on how kids can help reduce waste. It covers topics from recycling to food waste and is packed with helpful facts.

“One Plastic Bag: Isatou Ceesay and the Recycling Women of the Gambia” by Miranda Paul (ages 6-9)

This inspiring story is about Isatou Ceesay, who led a movement to recycle plastic bags in her Gambian village, turning waste into something useful. It’s an empowering story about community, resilience, and environmental action.

“The Great Kapok Tree: A Tale of the Amazon Rain Forest” by Lynne Cherry (ages 5-9)

This beautifully illustrated story set in the Amazon rainforest follows a man who learns about the importance of the rainforest from its creatures. It introduces kids to biodiversity and conservation in a captivating way.

“Old Enough to Save the Planet” by Loll Kirby (ages 7-10)

Featuring stories of young environmental activists from around the world, this book shows kids how they, too, can make a difference. Each story is inspiring and reinforces the idea that anyone can take action to protect the Earth.

“Wangari’s Trees of Peace: A True Story from Africa” by Jeanette Winter (ages 5-8)

This picture book tells the true story of Wangari Maathai, a Kenyan environmentalist who started a tree-planting movement to help heal the land. It’s a powerful story about environmentalism, activism, and resilience.

“The Water Princess” by Susan Verde (ages 5-8)

Based on the childhood of activist Georgie Badiel, this story follows a young girl’s journey to collect water for her family. It highlights the importance of clean water and reminds readers of the value of resources.

These Earth Day books provide engaging stories and lessons that inspire young readers to care for the planet and recognize their role in protecting it. They’re perfect for reading any time of year to encourage eco-awareness in kids.

Here are some thought-provoking Earth Day book recommendations for middle and high school readers. These books tackle environmental themes and inspire readers to consider their role in protecting the planet.

“Hoot” by Carl Hiaasen (ages 10-14)

    This novel follows Roy, a boy who tries to protect endangered burrowing owls threatened by a construction project in Florida. It’s a fun mystery with a strong environmental message about standing up for wildlife.

    “The Wild Robot” by Peter Brown (ages 8-12)

      • Age Range: 8–12 years (but great for middle school readers too)
      • Description: A robot named Roz wakes up on an island and learns to live harmoniously with nature and its creatures. This story combines science fiction with themes of coexistence and environmental respect.

      “My Side of the Mountain” by Jean Craighead George (ages 10-14)

        • Age Range: 10–14 years
        • Description: Sam, a young boy, decides to live alone in the Catskill Mountains, surviving with nature’s resources. This classic novel emphasizes self-sufficiency, respect for the environment, and the beauty of nature.

        “The Green Bicycle” by Haifaa Al Mansour (ages 10-14)

          Wadjda, a young Saudi girl, wants a green bicycle but faces societal limitations. Alongside her journey, she learns about environmental responsibility and how individual actions contribute to bigger changes.

          “Flush” by Carl Hiaasen (ages 10-14)

            Another environmental mystery, “Flush” follows Noah as he tries to prove that a local casino is dumping waste into the water. This action-packed story offers insights into the impact of pollution and the importance of standing up for the environment.

            “A Long Walk to Water” by Linda Sue Park (ages 10-14)

              This dual narrative tells the story of Salva, a Sudanese boy, and Nya, a young girl who spends hours daily collecting water. This story raises awareness of water scarcity and environmental challenges in other parts of the world.

              “Not Your Typical Book about the Environment” by Elin Kelsey (ages 10-14)

                This nonfiction book approaches environmentalism with a positive outlook, offering stories of successful conservation efforts and hopeful perspectives on the future. It’s an uplifting read for young environmentalists.

                “Silent Spring” by Rachel Carson (ages 14+)

                  This groundbreaking work on the dangers of pesticides launched the modern environmental movement. High school readers interested in environmental science and activism will appreciate its powerful call to action.

                  “The Omnivore’s Dilemma: Young Readers Edition” by Michael Pollan (ages 12+)

                    Pollan’s exploration of where our food comes from is thought-provoking and encourages young readers to think critically about their food choices and the environmental impact of agriculture.

                    “The Marrow Thieves” by Cherie Dimaline (ages 14+)

                      Set in a dystopian future where climate change has devastated the Earth, this novel follows Indigenous teens fighting for survival. It weaves environmental and cultural themes, exploring the impact of ecological destruction.

                      “Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants” by Robin Wall Kimmerer (ages 14+)

                        This acclaimed book combines Indigenous knowledge and scientific perspective to discuss our relationship with nature. Kimmerer’s essays inspire readers to view the environment as a shared responsibility and celebrate the interconnectedness of all life.

                        “Parable of the Sower” by Octavia Butler (ages 14+)

                          In a climate-ravaged future, Lauren, a young woman with a vision, must survive in a world collapsing under environmental and societal pressures. This novel explores themes of survival, resilience, and ecological disaster.

                          “Eyes Wide Open: Going Behind the Environmental Headlines” by Paul Fleischman

                            This nonfiction book breaks down complex environmental issues for teens, from climate change to deforestation. It encourages readers to think critically about media, science, and their roles in global sustainability.

                            “The Story of Stuff: The Impact of Overconsumption on the Planet, Our Communities, and Our Health—and How We Can Make It Better” by Annie Leonard (ages 14+)

                              This book examines consumer culture and its environmental impact, offering practical solutions for reducing waste and promoting sustainability. It’s a great read for teens interested in eco-conscious living.

                              “How to Change Everything: The Young Human’s Guide to Protecting the Planet and Each Other” by Naomi Klein and Rebecca Stefoff (ages 12+)

                              This guide empowers teens with knowledge about climate change and environmental justice, offering ways to get involved in activism. It’s an inspiring read for young readers eager to make a difference.

                                “Life As We Knew It” by Susan Beth Pfeffer (ages 14+)

                                  This fictional story of a world where climate disaster disrupts life follows Miranda as she and her family navigate food scarcity and extreme weather. It’s a powerful narrative on survival and environmental challenges.

                                  “No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference” by Greta Thunberg (ages 12+)

                                  This collection of speeches by activist Greta Thunberg shares her passion for the environment and the urgency of climate action. It’s an inspiring read for teens interested in activism and environmental justice.