Earth Day Books for Kids
Looking for fun and meaningful ways to celebrate Earth Day with your kids? One of the best ways to spark curiosity and care for the planet is through the power of a good book. Whether you’re homeschooling, reading aloud at bedtime, or building an Earth Day-themed morning basket, these children’s books are perfect for teaching about nature, conservation, and caring for the Earth.
Here’s a roundup of the best kids books for Earth Day—perfect for preschool through upper elementary ages.
Picture Books That Celebrate the Earth
1. The Earth Book by Todd Parr
Bright, bold illustrations and simple, powerful messages make this a great Earth Day read for younger children. It’s a perfect starting point for talking about how small actions can help the planet.
2. Thank You, Earth: A Love Letter to Our Planet by April Pulley Sayre
With stunning photographs and poetic text, this book is a beautiful tribute to the natural world and the blessings we sometimes take for granted.
3. We Are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom
Inspired by Indigenous-led movements to protect water, this Caldecott Medal winner is a powerful and empowering read for kids learning about environmental activism.
4. Compost Stew: An A to Z Recipe for the Earth by Mary McKenna Siddals
A fun and rhythmic alphabet book that introduces kids to composting. This one makes a great companion to hands-on Earth Day activities!
Books About Nature and Environmental Science
5. The Curious Garden by Peter Brown
This whimsical story about a little boy who transforms a gray city into a blooming green space encourages kids to dream big about making a difference.
6. Over and Under the Pond by Kate Messner
Gorgeous illustrations and lyrical writing explore the world above and below the surface of a pond. A gentle introduction to ecosystems and the interconnectedness of nature.
7. I Can Save the Earth! by Alison Inches
Part of the Little Green Books series, this book introduces young readers to eco-friendly habits with a relatable character who learns how to care for the Earth.
Stories That Encourage Stewardship and Action
8. The Lorax by Dr. Seuss
This classic tale of the Lorax who “speaks for the trees” remains one of the most beloved environmental books for kids. It’s both fun to read and thought-provoking.
9. Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney
Not specifically an Earth Day book, but its message of leaving the world more beautiful than you found it fits perfectly with Earth Day themes.
10. What If Everybody Did That? by Ellen Javernick
A great discussion starter about how our individual actions—good or bad—can affect the world around us.
11. I am Earth: an Earth Day Book for Kids by James and Rebecca McDonald
With colorful illustrations and simple science-based language, this book explains the Earth’s place in space, its natural systems, and why we need to protect it. It’s a great blend of storytelling and early science learning.
Try these companion activities in the Heart and Soul Homeschooling shop:
Make Earth Day Reading Extra Special
Here are a few fun ideas to go along with your Earth Day reading:
- Create a mini Earth Day reading nook with nature-themed pillows and a globe (this is like the one we have — it comes in 3 colors to choose from).
- Pair books with hands-on activities like planting seeds, making recycled crafts, or going on a nature scavenger hunt.
- Start a book-inspired journal for kids to write or draw what they love about the Earth and how they can help protect it.
Reading opens the door to awareness, empathy, and action—and Earth Day is the perfect time to start. These books can inspire your child to become a kind, curious, and responsible caretaker of our planet.
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