Make your teacher wish list eco-friendly by adding these books that focus on ways students of all ages can help take care of our environment. Books are categorized by grade level and each set of books provides easy habits students can start doing to protect our natural resources. Check out the list below and make sure to browse the Take Care of Texas Resources page for more activities and lesson plans that can be used in conjunction with these epic reads!
These four books are colorfully illustrated and easy for students in lower grades to read, understand, and apply in the real world. A summary of each book is included to give you a more in-depth look at what students will be learning.
10 things I can do to help my world- This is a great book for younger students to review 10 ways they can help the Earth, including turning off the tap water while you brush your teeth and writing on both sides of the paper. Perfect for introducing the concept of conservation and protecting the environment.
Compost Stew: An A to Z Recipe for the Earth- Compost Stew is a great way to peak students’ interest and possibly create a year-round activity that shows the decomposing process of materials. This inviting book provides all the answers for kids to learn how to start and maintain a compost pile at school or at home.
The Whale Who Ate Plastic- This gentle tale about a whale who eats plastic shares the importance of recycling and the effects of ocean pollution on ocean creatures. It provides easy-to-follow tips for children to start their recycling journey to empower them to make a difference.
Kids Can Save the World- Turn your students into environmental superheroes with this fun and interactive read. Packed with 50 fun and informative superhero missions, Kids Can Save the World is a great way to tackle the environmental issues we face today.
Focusing on older students and their growing curiosity during their time in middle school, these books are perfect for exploring ways to help the environment while learning about similar aged peers already making a difference.
Lonely Planet Kids: 101 Small Ways to Change the World- This book is perfect for kids looking for real world applications in real time! 101 Small Ways to Change the World provides a variety of ways students can start making a difference in the world. From energy-saving ideas to random acts of kindness, this practical and creative book will inspire them to go beyond even their own aspirations.
Old Enough to Make a Difference- Speaking of being inspired, this next book, Old Enough to Make a Difference, introduces students to 12 enterprising kids from around the world who have started businesses to help not only their community but the planet. Learn about their work and discover how the future of the world starts with you!
You Are Mighty!- What does it mean to be a good citizen? This book focuses on just that, learning about ways to be a good citizen. This guide features different ways to instigate change, DIY activities, and stories about real change makers such as Claudette Colvin. There are lots of action steps that students can choose from, so get started by adding this book to your list!
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind- William Kamkwamba’s tiny village in Malawi is facing a terrible drought that is leaving them without crops or anything to eat. William begins exploring science books and learns about an idea that will end up changing his and his family’s life forever!
Moving on to high school, the following books focus on more ways that students can make an impact even into adulthood. From small projects that reuse items in the house to growing their own food, these books provide practical tips to maintaining an eco-friendly lifestyle.
This Book Is Not Garbage- Become an eco-warrior with this book of tips and tricks to living an eco-friendly life. From ditching straws to banning glitter, this read is great for small projects that can make a big difference.
Generation Green- Laying out the inside scoop on some big issues affecting the planet, this book offers dozens of tips on how to live a life that is environmentally conscious. It also includes interviews with teens who are involved with green causes to inspire readers.
The Green Teen- Are your students ready to take their environmentalism up a notch? Then this book will be perfect on your bookshelves. The Green Teen is packed with tips that teens can easily do and includes some challenge action steps such as starting their own recycling program.
The Urban Homestead- The perfect essential handbook for future homesteaders and those interested in being more independent in all aspects of their lives. This read offers step-by-step projects, tips, and anecdotes that will help them get started immediately!
There are so many more books that are focused on eco-friendly habits that will make a true difference in the world. Learning these habits and understanding how to incorporate them into our daily lives will be extra fun this year with these interactive and creative books. Don't miss an opportunity to expand the world of conservation within your classroom.
