The Earth Book

Parr adds to his successful series of easy-to-understand, vibrantly illustrated stories with this ecologically themed offering for younger children. He uses a simple, repetitive structure written in first person: “I [do this worthwhile activity] / and [this one] because… // I love [this aspect of nature] / and I want [this to happen].” This structural format works well to bring complex issues such as global warming into a simple context that kids can connect with. The text reads smoothly and poetically, but children may need some additional explanation from an adult to understand the logic behind the actions and resulting benefits. The cheerful illustrations include children of all colors (real and make-believe) and recognizable animals with wildly imaginary color schemes. A concluding note from the author offers encouraging words about taking care of the environment, and the reverse of the book jacket includes a list of ten ways to save the Earth. His approach to this complex topic is simple but not simplistic, and this introduction to the subject is both useful and entertaining. (Picture book. 5-8)

In Parr's signature chunky style, smiley-faced kids share what they love about the planet and what they do to protect it. I turn off the faucet while I brush my teeth, says a purple boy in a hot pink bathroom. On another spread, two figures stand in a sunny garden with neatly planted rows of produce: I love watching things grow and I want there to be enough food for everyone. The earnest message springs off the page. Ages 48. "(Mar.)" Copyright 2010 Publishers Weekly Used with permission.

K-Gr 4The narrator states, "I take care of the earth because I know I can do little things every day to make a BIG difference." Parr then offers a practical catalog of simple activities easily managed by even quite young children, followed by clear explanations of how those simple things can have a large impact on the health of our planet. "I use both sides of the paper and bring my own bags to market because]I love the trees and I want the owls to have a place to live." The book is "printed with recycled materials and nontoxic soy inks." The vibrantly colored cartoons with heavy black outlines resemble those a child might create. Useful as an introduction to the subject, this is a bright and cheerful presentation."Grace Oliff, Ann Blanche Smith School, Hillsdale, NJ" Copyright 2010 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.