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Children's Book Assignment
15 points
Think about a book you read as a child. Do any books stand out as making an impact on your environmental ideas?
Think of the book the Lorax by Dr. Seuss.
This Dr. Seuss story addresses one's impact on the environment, complexities surrounding success and ambition, and taking responsibility. The Lorax is a cautionary tale primarily about a person's responsibilities to the environment. We all want to live in a world with truffula trees and not one where we need to buy “O’hare air.
Can a connection about taking care of the environment start with a book? For this assignment I would like you to choose a book on an environmental topic. Choose a topic that you care about and one that might make a lasting impression on a child. There are links below to help you search the Ballenger Teachers Center for a book.
Complete the following questions in a word document and submit to the dropbox
1. Give the title, author and illustrator of the book.
2. Summarize the book.
3. How did the story help to teach a lesson? And what was that lesson/message?
4. What action might a child take after reading this book. Think simple. For example: If the book is about water scarcity in parts of the world. The child might try to only use 1 cup for water per day. If you have kids this is asking a lot! They can drink multiple cups of water but they must use the same cup to cut down on water used for dishes
5. Take a selfie with the book you choose and upload it either separately or in the word document
Due April 21 at 11:59 via the dropbox
Find a children's book related to an environmental concept
The sky is truly the limit as far as your topic. Some suggestions include the following, but you can use any topic you can think of related to the class:
- Energy
- Endangered species
- Environmental Protection
- Gardening
- Natural disasters
- Pollution
- Recycling
- Sustainability
The key is that you want something that presents a story, not just a traditional non-fiction book.
Search Strategies
After you have picked a topic, start your search on the Books and Movies tab of the Ballenger Teachers Center Website. This will ensure you only search books in the juvenile section of the library.
Type your search term into the box. Include the phrase juvenile literature with your search term. This will help exclude any teaching materials and ensure you only see children's books.
As you scroll through your results, try to pay attention to more recent titles and books with attractive covers. A subtitle is usually a good sign that the book will do more than just present a string of facts about your topic. Be sure to go past the first ten results and look at more pages!
For instance, in this first page of results, only one book looks like it will tell the story of recycling in a compelling way.
Click on the title of the book and scroll down to read the description of the book.
When you find a book that looks interesting, you can use the related reading feature to find additional books. When I look up One Plastic Bag: Isatou Ceesay and the Recycling Women of the Gambia, some great suggestions are found in the Related Reading suggestions! Click the More button to see even more titles.
Finding your book on the shelf
Once you have found the book you'd like to use, you will need to find it on the shelf. You will need the call number which is a Dewey Decimal number.
The call number is in parentheses after the location information in the library catalog.
The the call number for this book is 628 B346pa.You will need to go to the shelf to find the book. The juvenile books start in the north corner of Ballenger and wrap around on the wall.
Suggested Titles
The Camping Trip That Changed America: Theodore Roosevelt, John Muir, and our National Parks by
Caldecott medalist Mordicai Gerstein captures the majestic redwoods of Yosemite in this little-known but important story from our nation's history. In 1903, President Theodore Roosevelt joined naturalist John Muir on a trip to Yosemite. Camping by themselves in the uncharted woods, the two men saw sights and held discussions that would ultimately lead to the establishment of our National Parks.
Call Number: 797.4 R7272ca
Can You Hear the Trees Talking?: Discovering the Hidden Life of the Forest by
WINNER OF THE AAAS/SUBARU PRIZE FOR EXCELLENCE IN SCIENCE BOOKS BASED ON THE NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER THE HIDDEN LIFE OF TREES This interactive book for kids aged 8-10 introduces the wonderful science of the forest through outdoor activities, quizzes, fun facts, photographs, and more! Discover the secret life of trees with this nature and science book for kids: Can You Hear the Trees Talking? shares the mysteries and magic of the forest with young readers, revealing what trees feel, how they communicate, and the ways trees take care of their families. The author of The Hidden Life of Trees, Peter Wohlleben, tells kids about the forest internet, aphids who keep ants as pets, nature's water filters, and more fascinating things that happen under the canopy. Featuring simple activities kids can try on their own, along with quizzes, photographs, and more, Can You Hear the Trees Talking? covers a range of amazing topics including: : How trees talk to each other (hint: through the wood wide web!) Why trees are important in the city How trees make us healthy and strong How trees get sick, and how we can help them get better This engaging and visually stunning book encourages at-home learning and fun as kids discover the wonder of the natural world outside their windows. "Lush full-color photos and pictures create an immersive experience and the layout facilitates engaged, delighted learning. ...this book may prompt frequent family visits to, and a new appreciation for, neighborhood trees and local forests."--Washington Parent
Call Number: 582.16 W825ca
Creekfinding: a true story by
Once upon a time a creek burbled up and tumbled across a prairie valley. It was filled with insects and brook trout that ate them, frogs that chirruped and birds watching for bugs and fish. This is a true story about a man named Mike who went looking for that creek long after it was buried under fields of corn. It is the story of how a creek can be brought back to life, and with it a whole world of nature. In the words of award-winning author Jacqueline Briggs Martin and the enchanting illustrations by Claudia McGehee, this heartening tale of an ecosystem restored in the Driftless Area of northeast Iowa unfolds in a way that will charm and inform young readers who are drawn to a good mystery, the wonders of nature--and, of course, big earth-moving machines.
Call Number: 577 M3642cr
Mama Miti by
NAACP Image Award Nominee "In a word, stunning." --Kirkus Reviews (starred review) Through artful prose and beautiful illustrations, Donna Jo Napoli and Kadir Nelson tell the true story of Wangari Muta Maathai, known as "Mama Miti," who in 1977 founded the Green Belt Movement, an African grassroots organization that has empowered many people to mobilize and combat deforestation, soil erosion, and environmental degradation. Today, more than 30 million trees have been planted throughout Mama Miti's native Kenya, and in 2004 she became the first African woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize. Wangari Muta Maathai has changed Kenya tree by tree--and with each page turned, children will realize their own ability to positively impact the future.
Call Number: 333.72 M112na
Wangari's Trees of Peace by
As a young girl growing up in Kenya, Wangari was surrounded by trees. But years later when she returns home, she is shocked to see whole forests being cut down, and she knows that soon all the trees will be destroyed. So Wangari decides to do something--and starts by planting nine seedlings in her own backyard. And as they grow, so do her plans. . . . This true story of Wangari Maathai, environmentalist and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, is a shining example of how one woman's passion, vision, and determination inspired great change. Includes an author's note. This book was printed on 100% recycled paper with 50% postconsumer waste.
Call Number: 333.72 M112wi
Over and under the Pond by
A secret underwater world brought to life: This gorgeous companion to the acclaimed Over and Under the Snow and Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt is an excellent addition to any emerging reader's collection. In Over and Under the Pond, readers will discover the plants and animals that make up the rich, interconnected ecosystem of a mountain pond. Over the pond, the water is a mirror, reflecting the sky. But under the water is a hidden world of creatures--minnows darting, beavers diving, and tadpoles growing. These secrets and many others are waiting to be discovered over and under the pond in this sweet children's book from Kate Messner and Christopher Silas Neal, the latest in their beloved series that offers kids a peek into hidden ecosystems. ENTERTAINING AND EDUCATIONAL: Stunning illustrations paired with an easy-to-follow storyline make this a great read for any early elementary school student, while a glossary of animals that live in, near, and around the mountain pond enriches the reading experience. INSPIRES A LOVE A NATURE: Offering a look inside a beautiful underwater ecosystem, this gorgeously illustrated book encourages children to explore the world around them and appreciate the natural wonders they discover. A FIVE-STAR FAVORITE OF READERS & REVIEWERS: "Playful and lovely to read aloud. Even older budding naturalists will find something to enjoy here."--School Library Journal; "A contemplative journey through an ecosystem."--USA Today Perfect for: A great read-aloud book for home or school Parents looking for enchanting bedtime reads or nature books for kids Fans of books like A Different Pond, An Egg Is Quiet, Because of an Acorn, and Over and Under the Rainforest and others in the Over and Under series Any kid who loves picture books about science, nature, or animals
Call Number: 577.63 M5641ov
Over and under the Snow by
Over the snow, the world is hushed and white. But under the snow exists a secret kingdom of squirrels and snow hares, bears and bullfrogs, and many other animals that live through the winter safe and warm, awake and busy, under the snow. Discover the wonder and activity that lies beneath winter's snowy landscape in this magical book.
Call Number: 591.4 M5641o
Energy Island by
Hold onto your hats! It's windy on the Danish island of Samsø, where you will meet the environmentally friendly people who now proudly call their home Energy Island. At a time when most countries are producing ever-increasing amounts of greenhouse gasses, the rather ordinary citizens of Samsø have accomplished something extraordinary--in just ten years they have reduced their carbon emissions by 140% and become almost completely energy independent. A narrative tale and a science book in one, this inspiring true story proves that with a little hard work and a big idea, anyone can make a huge step toward energy conservation. The inspiring first book in the author's acclaimed series about real-world communities going green.
Call Number: 333.9 D8442en
Green City by
The amazing story of one town's real-world effort to build back better! In 2007, a tornado destroyed Greensburg, Kansas, and the residents were at a loss as to what to do next--they didn't want to rebuild if their small town would just be destroyed in another storm. So they decided they wouldn't just rebuild the same old thing; this time, they would build a town that could not only survive another storm, but one that was built in an environmentally sustainable way. Told from the point of view of a child whose family needed to rebuilt after the storm, this is the inspiring addition to the author's acclaimed series about actual everyday communities going green includes plenty of rebuilding scenes and details for construction lovers, too!
Call Number: 640.28 D8443grISBN: 9780374379995
Green Green by
Green grass is wide and fresh and clean for a family to play in, and brown dirt is perfect for digging a garden. But when gray buildings start to rise up and a whole city builds, can there be any room for green space? The neighborhood children think so, and they inspire the community to join together and build a garden for everyone to share in the middle of the city.
Call Number: 800 L17grISBN: 9780374327972
The Tree Lady: : the true story of how one tree-loving woman changed a city forever by
Unearth the true story of green-thumbed pioneer and activist Kate Sessions, who helped San Diego grow from a dry desert town into a lush, leafy city known for its gorgeous parks and gardens. Katherine Olivia Sessions never thought she'd live in a place without trees. After all, Kate grew up among the towering pines and redwoods of Northern California. But after becoming the first woman to graduate from the University of California with a degree in science, she took a job as a teacher far south in the dry desert town of San Diego. Where there were almost no trees. Kate decided that San Diego needed trees more than anything else. So this trailblazing young woman singlehandedly started a massive movement that transformed the town into the green, garden-filled oasis it is today. Now, more than 100 years after Kate first arrived in San Diego, her gorgeous gardens and parks can be found all over the city. Part fascinating biography, part inspirational story, this moving picture book about following your dreams, using your talents, and staying strong in the face of adversity is sure to resonate with readers young and old.
Call Number: 635 Se72ho
The Curious Garden by
This New York Times bestselling modern classic explores the perennial topic of environmentalism in an urban world, from the creator of The Wild Robot and Mr. Tiger Goes Wild One boy's quest for a greener world... one garden at a time. While out exploring one day, a little boy named Liam discovers a struggling garden and decides to take care of it. As time passes, the garden spreads throughout the dark, gray city, transforming it into a lush, green world. This is an enchanting tale with environmental themes and breathtaking illustrations that become more vibrant as the garden blooms. Red-headed Liam can also be spotted on every page, adding a clever seek-and-find element to this captivating picture book.
Call Number: 800 B81452cu
All That Trash: the story of the 1987 Garbage Barge and our problem with stuff by Call Number: 386.244 M1276al
The Great Stink by
A Robert F. Sibert Honor Book! Discover the true story about the determined engineer who fixed London's pollution problem in this funny, accessible nonfiction picture book featuring engaging art from the illustrator of Queen Victoria's Bathing Machine. It's the summer of 1858, and London's River Thames STINKS. What is creating this revolting smell? The answer is gross: the river is full of poop. But the smell isn't the worst problem. Every few years, cholera breaks out, and thousands of people die. Could there be a connection between the foul water and the deadly disease? One engineer dreams of making London a cleaner, healthier place. His name is Joseph Bazalgette. His grand plan to create a new sewer system to clean the river is an engineering marvel. And his sewers will save lives. Nothing stinky about that. With tips for how to prevent pollution today, this fascinating look at science, history, and what one person can do to create change will impress and astound readers who want to help make their planet a cleaner, happier place to live.
Call Number: 628 B346pa
Ada's Violin: the story of the Recycled Orchestra of Paraguay by
From award-winning author Susan Hood and illustrator Sally Wern Comport comes the extraordinary true tale of the Recycled Orchestra of Paraguay, an orchestra made up of children playing instruments built from recycled trash. Ada Ríos grew up in Cateura, a small town in Paraguay built on a landfill. She dreamed of playing the violin, but with little money for anything but the bare essentials, it was never an option...until a music teacher named Favio Chávez arrived. He wanted to give the children of Cateura something special, so he made them instruments out of materials found in the trash. It was a crazy idea, but one that would leave Ada--and her town--forever changed. Now, the Recycled Orchestra plays venues around the world, spreading their message of hope and innovation.
Call Number: 784.206 H7617ad
The Last Straw: Kids vs. Plastics by
"Thoughtful and thought-provoking, this book will plant the seeds of environmental activism in young readers." --Kirkus (starred review) "I encourage everyone to read this book." --Dr. Jane Goodall There's no doubt about it--plastic is in almost everything. From our phones and computers to our toys and utensils, plastic is everywhere. But the amount of plastic we throw away is hurting the health of our planet. With The Last Straw: Kids vs. Plastics, readers will be fascinated as they learn about the growing plastic problem and meet just a few of the young activists who are standing up and speaking out for change. You'll hear about the "Be Straw Free" campaign, started by nine-year-old Milo Cress. You'll discover how scientists are using jellyfish snot and munching, crunching caterpillars to break down plastic pollution faster. You'll meet Xóchitl Guadalupe Cruz López, the eight-year-old girl turning old plastic bottles into solar heaters. And there are many more incredible kids here, not much older than our readers, who will inspire us all to change the way we think about plastic! With an introduction from Milo Cress and bright, colorful illustrations from Christiane Engel, this collection of brilliant, lyrical nonfiction poems by award-winning author Susan Hood highlights the threat of plastic and the kids who are fighting for change to save our planet. Includes extensive backmatter with a timeline, author's note, further resources, and more.
Call Number: 628.4 H7611La
One Plastic Bag by
The inspiring true story of how one African woman began a movement to recycle the plastic bags that were polluting her community. Plastic bags are cheap and easy to use. But what happens when a bag breaks or is no longer needed? In Njau, Gambia, people simply dropped the bags and went on their way. One plastic bag became two. Then ten. Then a hundred. The bags accumulated in ugly heaps alongside roads. Water pooled in them, bringing mosquitoes and disease. Some bags were burned, leaving behind a terrible smell. Some were buried, but they strangled gardens. They killed livestock that tried to eat them. Something had to change. Isatou Ceesay was that change. She found a way to recycle the bags and transform her community. This inspirational true story shows how one person's actions really can make a difference in our world.
Call Number: 363.72 P2816on
