Celebrate Earth Day with Books that Inspire Sustainability

By Julie K

In the summer of 1969, sparks from a train passing over the Cuyahoga River in Ohio ignited a fire, causing the heavily polluted river to go KABOOM! Definitely not something a river should do, but rivers in other big cities were catching fire too. These pivotal moments helped spark the environmental movement and the creation of Earth Day, celebrated around the world every April 22nd. The following books are perfect for deepening our understanding of Earth Day, sustainability, and our role as caretakers of the planet.

The Day the River Caught Fire by Barry Wittenstein tells the story of this historic event through engaging storytelling and illustrations. The river fire became a symbol of environmental neglect, sparking the need for change. This book, available in the Juvenile Easy Fiction section, is a great introduction to the importance of community action in protecting the environment.

My Friend Earth by Patricia MacLachlan is a beautiful book available through the Valnet Catalog. With die-cut pages that depict Earth as a friendly little girl, this book shows how she cares for animals, trees, and the sky through the seasons. It illustrates the delicate balance of life on our planet and inspires young readers to think of Earth as a friend to care for, just as she cares for us.

Bright New World: Building a Better Planet by Cindy Forde is a thought-provoking read for people of all ages. It explains the environmental challenges our planet faces, offering facts, practical advice, and a hopeful outlook. The book encourages readers to consider sustainable actions-big or small-that can help make the world a better place for future generations.

Life as We Know It (Can Be) by Bill Weir is a new book found in the Valnet Catalog, written by CNN's Chief Climate Correspondent and host of the documentary series The Wonder List. Written as a series of heartfelt letters to his son, River, these personal reflections explore the realities of climate change while highlighting both the beauty of the natural world and the challenges we face. It illustrates the responsibility we all share as stewards of the Earth and offers an intimate perspective on the urgency of climate action. This book serves as a reminder of the legacy we can leave for future generations.

Visit the library and check out these inspiring books-and so much more-today!