Celebrate National CleanUp Day:
Six Must-Read Books for Outdoor Stewardship
National CleanUp Day and World CleanUp Day are held on the third Saturday in September every year. They are powerful reminders of the importance of taking action to protect our environment. Whether through organized events or individual efforts, this day encourages everyone to take responsibility for keeping our outdoor spaces clean and free of litter, preventing harmful plastics and other waste from polluting our natural habitats.
To inspire and educate young readers about the significance of environmental stewardship, here are six must-read books highlighting nature’s beauty and the impact of our actions on the planet.
Drawn to Change the World by Emma Reynolds
Drawn to Change the World is an inspiring collection featuring the work of 16 artists, each using their talent to advocate for environmental and social justice. This anthology showcases a diverse array of voices and artistic styles, all united by a common goal: to inspire change and encourage young readers to take action. Through vivid illustrations and powerful stories, this book emphasizes the importance of creativity in the fight for a better world and the role that art can play in environmental activism.
Hatch Saves the Reef by Judith Stutchbury, Illustrated by Archie Gatley and Mark Mulgrew
In Hatch Saves the Reef, young readers are introduced to the vibrant underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef through the eyes of Hatch, a brave little loggerhead turtle. The story follows Hatch as he embarks on a daring adventure to save his home from the dangers of pollution and climate change. This beautifully illustrated book highlights the importance of coral reefs and teaches children about human activities’ impact on marine ecosystems. It’s a captivating story that encourages a sense of responsibility for protecting our oceans and the creatures that inhabit them..
Black Beach tells the powerful story of a community’s response to a devastating oil spill, an event that played a crucial role in the creation of Earth Day. This book offers a poignant reminder of the environmental disasters that have sparked movements for change. Through the lens of a young girl witnessing the spill’s impact on her hometown, readers learn about the origins of environmental activism and the importance of coming together to protect our planet. Maribel Lechuga’s evocative illustrations bring this historical event to life, making it a compelling read for young environmentalists.
Old Enough to Save the Planet by Loll Kirby, Illustrated by Adelina Lirius
Old Enough to Save the Planet is a powerful collection of mini-reports that highlights the actions of young activists worldwide who are making a difference in their communities. Each report shows how children, regardless of age, can take meaningful steps to address environmental issues, from reducing plastic waste to protecting wildlife. The book is beautifully illustrated by Adelina Lirius, whose artwork captures the spirit and determination of these young changemakers. This book is a great way to inspire children to believe in their ability to effect change and encourage them to act in their own lives.
Coral Reefs: A Journey Through an Aquatic World Full of Wonder by Jason Chin
Jason Chin’s Coral Reefs is an exquisite exploration of the vibrant ecosystems beneath the ocean’s surface. Through stunning illustrations and engaging text, the book takes readers on a journey through the intricate world of coral reefs, showcasing the diversity of life that depends on these fragile habitats. Chin’s detailed artwork highlights the beauty of coral reefs and emphasizes their importance to the overall health of our planet’s oceans. This book is an excellent resource for teaching children about marine conservation and the need to protect these vital ecosystems from threats like pollution and climate change.
The Extraordinary Book That Eats Itself by Susan Hayes and Penelope Arlon, Illustrated by Pintachan
The Extraordinary Book That Eats Itself is a unique and interactive book that teaches children about sustainability in a fun and engaging way. As the title suggests, the book can be “eaten”—each page can be used to create something new, from seed packets to bird feeders, leaving nothing to waste. This book is a brilliant introduction to recycling and reusing materials, encouraging children to think creatively about reducing waste. Pintachan’s colorful illustrations and the book’s innovative design make it a perfect tool for teaching kids about the importance of sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Using These Books in the Classroom
These six books provide a rich resource for celebrating National CleanUp Day in classrooms, libraries, and homes. They offer young readers not only an understanding of the environmental challenges we face but also stories of hope and empowerment. Teachers and parents can use these books to spark discussions about the importance of keeping our planet clean, the impact of pollution on ecosystems, and how individuals—no matter how young—can make a difference. By integrating these stories into lessons and activities, educators can inspire a new generation of environmental stewards committed to protecting our natural world for years to come.
If you’d like to write your own entry on a book like the ones above, please visit Climate Lit to learn how to get involved!
Keywords: Biodiversity, Clean-up Operations, Climate Action, Collective Action, Conservation, Earth Care, Earth Day, Earth Stewardship, Environmental Awareness, Habitat Preservation, Individual Action, Marine Conservation, Nature, Recycling, Reuse, Sustainability, Upcycling, Waste Management, Youth Climate Activism
