What’s on your bookshelf? Nature books for kids
April 30 – Reading can spark and cultivate a life-long connection with the natural world. Educators from Connecticut Audubon share some of their favorite books for families with young readers … or readers of any age who are young in spirit.
The Lorax, by Dr Seuss.
A good message about taking responsibility for the stewardship of our environment. –Tricia Kevalis, Center at Fairfield
Charlotte’s Web, by E.B. White
A gateway-to-nature book that endears its animal characters to the reader and helps us to appreciate our differences and the best of us! We all have to have some kind of “hook” that makes us become stewards! –Colleen Noyes, Center at Fairfield
Beginning Birdwatcher’s Book: With 48 Stickers, by Sy Barlowe; and “Bird Count,” by Susan Edwards Richmon
Both these books engage young learners in active data collection and citizen science. – Marge Porter, Center at Pomfret
Many: The Diversity of Life on Earth, by Nicola Davies, illustrated by Emily Sutton
Ever wonder how many different kinds of living things are on Earth and how they are connected? This children’s book tries to put that in perspective. It also doesn’t shy away from addressing the impact of humans on the pattern of life on Earth. –Carol Kratzman, Coastal Center at Milford Point
Owl Moon, by Jane Yolen, illustrated by John Schoenherr
If I had to pick a favorite bird it would be owl. If I had to pick a favorite owl book it would be “Owl Moon.” This is a story of a simple yet magical adventure of walking silently in the woods at night in search of owls. The shadowy images of animals they pass along the way add a hide and seek element to the book. –Carol Kratzman, Coastal Center at Milford Point
Unbeatable Beaks, by Stephen Swinburne, illustrated by Joan Paley
Bird beaks come in many different shapes and sizes and can do the most amazing things. The rhyming, chant-like text and colorful illustrations makes for a fun yet very educational read. The glossary in the back gives more information about the birds’ beaks and food. –Carol Kratzman, Coastal Center at Milford Point
Mister Seahorse, by Eric Carle
Eric Carle may be better known for “The Hungry, Hungry Caterpillar” but don’t miss “Mister Seahorse.” Colorful illustrations highlight the story of Mr. Seahorse, and the other fish he meets in his travels, as he discovers the different ways fish care for their eggs and young. A great story for introducing a variety of fish and their adaptations. –Carol Kratzman, Coastal Center at Milford Point
Heroes of the Environment: True Stories of People Helping to Protect Our Planet, by Harriet Rohmer, illustrated by Julie McLaughlin
A great book for older children focusing on the true stories of 12 people from across North America who have done amazing things for the environment. Recommended for ages 9 and up. —Heather Kordula, Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center
If You Plant a Seed, by Kadir Nelson
For younger children. Demonstrates the process of planting and growing but also of kindness! –Heather Kordula, Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center
The Earth Book, by Todd Parr
For younger children. A beautiful eco-friendly picture book, printed with recycled material and nontoxic soy inks. —Heather Kordula, Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center
Feathers Not Just for Flying, by Melissa Stewart, illustrated by Sarah S. Brannen
A beautifully illustrated children’s book that shares many examples of how birds benefit from feathers in different ways, not just flight. Remember, birds are the only animal with feathers! A good introduction for budding birders who love to learn, paint and draw. –Cathy Hagadorn, Deer Pond Farm
Crow, not Crow, by Jane Yolen and Adam Stemple, illustrated by Elizabeth Dulemba
A great story about learning how to ID birds based on comparison of behavior, color and habitat. Good lessons for adults new to birding as well. – Cathy Hagadorn, Deer Pond Farm
Flute’s Journey, the Life of a Wood Thrush, by Lynne Cherry
For older children and adults. This quick but impactful read really connects one to the challenges and mastery of migrating song birds. Lots of conservation lessons and warnings are woven delicately into the vibrantly sketched story. This book should inspire environmental activism in everyone. –Cathy Hagadorn, Deer Pond Farm
