Myra here.
We are delighted to join the Nonfiction Picture Book meme 2016 hosted by Alyson Beecher @ Kid Lit Frenzy. We would also be linking our nonfiction choices with our reading themes throughout the year.
With climate change now being perceived as a fact and a lived reality, I feel that we need more environmentally-themed books such as these that show the beauty of our shared home, the Earth.
This Is The Earth
Written by: Diane Z. Shore and Jessica Alexander Paintings by: Wendell Minor
Published by: Harper, 2016 ISBN: 0060555262 (ISBN13: 9780060555269)
Borrowed a copy from the Jurong West Public Library. Book photos taken by me.
This book – told in rhyming text that also has a cumulative feel to it (ala This is the house that Jack built) – showcases the evolving landscapes of the earth through the centuries up to the present time.
More than the text told in rhyme which I do not pretty much care for, Wendell Minor’s paintings seem to stand alone as one flips through the book and become awestruck by the full-spread beauty page after page after page.
Minor also shifts gears towards the end as he depicts the devastation wrought by waste, landfills, and the debris spewed into the sea harming the creatures that live there.
The book ends with a few pointed suggestions on what young readers can do to make a difference. The Author and the Illustrator’s notes at the end are also worth reading; however, do note that the link they provided isn’t working any longer (earthday.com). But here is one that’s working from Scholastic that contains a great deal of teacher resources and activities that can be done in the classroom.
Here is a short video clip on Earth Hour 2016:
And here is Michael Jackson’s Earth Song. Enjoy!
Gathering Books 
Wendell Minor’s work here is wonderful, I agree. It is a lovely book.
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Such beautiful books Wendell Minor paints! It was wonderful to see the spreads from this one in your post.
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Beautiful! I always appreciate environmental stories that carry a spirit of hope – it’s important to show kids the true state of the world, but always to leave them feeling inspired, rather than hopeless.
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Yes, gorgeous book! The artwork was a standout. I thought there were some good pages to talk about with the kids.
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Beautiful book! Thanks for highlighting an environmental book.
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I love that you included Michael Jackson’s song. I wish there was a movement like Earth Day for every season.
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