20 best books on sustainability for kids – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you looking for a fun and educational way to teach your kids about sustainability? Look no further than these 20 best books about sustainability for kids! With captivating stories and beautiful illustrations, these books will inspire children to care for the planet and make a positive impact. From recycling to renewable energy, these sustainability for kids books cover a wide range of topics in an engaging and age-appropriate way. Let’s dive into the world of eco-friendly adventures and start nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards!


The Watcher

by Nikki Grimes

The Watcher by Nikki Grimes is not your ordinary book on sustainability for kids. It’s an enchanting tale that invites young readers to discover the beauty of the natural world and the importance of caring for our planet.

In this captivating book about sustainability for kids, young Tanya spends her days observing the wonders of nature from her apartment window. With her trusty notebook in hand, she documents everything she sees, from the birds soaring through the sky to the flowers blooming in the park.

But one day, Tanya notices something troubling. The once vibrant park is slowly being filled with litter, and the birds she admired are disappearing one by one. Determined to make a difference, Tanya embarks on a mission to save her beloved park and its inhabitants.

The Watcher not only teaches children about the importance of taking care of the environment, but it also encourages them to become active citizens in their communities. Through Tanya’s journey, young readers will learn about the power of observation, the necessity of recycling, and the joy of planting trees.

This remarkable sustainability for kids book is filled with beautiful illustrations that bring Tanya’s world to life. It’s a story that will inspire young minds to become stewards of the earth and ignite a passion for sustainability that will last a lifetime.

The Water Princess

by Susan Verde

The Water Princess is a captivating book on sustainability for kids that takes young readers on a journey to a faraway land where water is scarce. Written by Susan Verde, this beautifully illustrated story introduces children to the concept of sustainability in a way that is both educational and engaging.

The Great Kapok Tree

by Lynne Cherry

The Great Kapok Tree: A Book on Sustainability for Kids

Join the adventure in The Great Kapok Tree, a captivating children’s book about the importance of sustainability and the preservation of our natural world. Written and illustrated by Lynne Cherry, this beautifully crafted story takes young readers on a journey through the Amazon rainforest, where they discover the interconnectedness of all living beings and the significance of sustainability.

In this enchanting tale, a man enters the heart of the rainforest with the intention of cutting down a magnificent kapok tree. As he rests beneath its branches, he falls asleep, and something magical happens. One by one, the animals of the rainforest approach him, whispering their reasons why the tree should be saved. From the colorful macaw to the mighty jaguar, each creature shares its unique perspective, revealing the intricate web of life that sustains them all.

This book about sustainability for kids not only highlights the importance of preserving our natural resources but also emphasizes the role that each individual plays in protecting the environment. Through the eyes of the man in the story, young readers learn the significance of making conscious choices and taking responsibility for the well-being of our planet.

With its vibrant illustrations and engaging narrative, The Great Kapok Tree serves as a catalyst for discussions about sustainability, biodiversity, and the delicate balance of ecosystems. It encourages children to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the environment, empowering them to become stewards of the Earth.

Whether used as a bedtime story or a classroom resource, this sustainability for kids book provides a gentle yet powerful message that will inspire young readers to take action and make a positive impact on the world around them. Through the pages of The Great Kapok Tree, children will discover the beauty of nature and the urgent need to protect it for future generations.

The Water Princess

by Georgie Badiel

The Water Princess is a captivating book on sustainability for kids that takes young readers on a journey through the eyes of a young girl named Princess Gie Gie. Set in Burkina Faso, West Africa, this beautifully illustrated book tells the powerful story of Princess Gie Gie’s quest for clean water.

In this book about sustainability for kids, Princess Gie Gie dreams of a day when she no longer has to walk miles each day to fetch water for her family. She dreams of a future where clean water flows freely in her village, bringing health and happiness to everyone.

Through the vivid illustrations and poetic storytelling, children learn about the importance of water, the challenges faced by communities without access to clean water, and the impact of sustainable solutions. This sustainability for kids book encourages young readers to become aware of the global water crisis and inspires them to take action.

With its compelling narrative and beautiful artwork, The Water Princess is a must-read for children who want to make a difference in the world. It teaches them empathy, resilience, and the power of determination. This book on sustainability for kids is an empowering and inspiring reminder that even the smallest actions can create positive change.

The Curious Garden

by Peter Brown

The Curious Garden by Peter Brown is a delightful children’s book about fostering a love for nature and the importance of environmental sustainability. This enchanting tale introduces young readers to the concept of “green living” in a fun and engaging way.

One Plastic Bag

by Miranda Paul

One Plastic Bag by Miranda Paul is a captivating and eye-opening book on sustainability for kids. This remarkable story is based on the true events of how a woman named Isatou Ceesay transformed her community in Gambia by recycling plastic bags.

The Tree Lady

by H. Joseph Hopkins

The Tree Lady by H. Joseph Hopkins is a captivating book on sustainability for kids that tells the inspiring true story of Kate Sessions, also known as the “Mother of Balboa Park.” This beautifully illustrated book takes young readers on a journey through the life of Kate Sessions, a woman who dedicated her life to preserving and planting trees in San Diego.

In this book about sustainability for kids, readers will learn about Kate’s passion for nature and her determination to turn San Diego into a greener and more beautiful place. Through her love for trees, Kate not only transformed the landscape but also created a sustainable environment for future generations to enjoy.

The Tree Lady is a sustainability for kids book that highlights the importance of conservation, environmental stewardship, and the positive impact that one person can make. It teaches children the significance of trees in maintaining a healthy ecosystem, providing shade, and improving air quality.

This incredible story of Kate Sessions is a reminder to children that they too can make a difference in the world, no matter how small. The Tree Lady is a must-read for young readers who are passionate about sustainability and want to learn how they can contribute to a greener future.

The Water Princess

by Ruta Sepetys

The Water Princess by Ruta Sepetys is an extraordinary book on sustainability for kids that takes young readers on a captivating journey through the eyes of a young girl named Gie Gie. Set in a small African village, this beautifully illustrated picture book tells a poignant story about the daily struggles for clean water and the importance of sustainability for kids.

The Water Princess

by Carole Boston Weatherford

The Water Princess by Carole Boston Weatherford is a captivating book that introduces young readers to the importance of sustainability in a way that is both educational and entertaining. This beautifully illustrated story follows the journey of a young girl named Princess Gie Gie who dreams of bringing clean water to her village. With determination and resilience, she embarks on a quest to find water, facing various challenges along the way.

Through Princess Gie Gie’s inspiring adventure, children will learn about the vital role of water in our lives and the need to conserve and protect this precious resource. This book is not just a book about sustainability for kids, it’s a heartwarming tale that promotes empathy, perseverance, and the power of community.

With its engaging narrative and vibrant illustrations, The Water Princess is a must-read for young readers who are curious about sustainability and want to make a difference. It encourages children to think critically about the environment and empowers them to take action to create a more sustainable future. This sustainability for kids book will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression and inspire young minds to become advocates for change.

The Water Princess

by Jacqueline Woodson

The Water Princess is a captivating book on sustainability for kids that takes young readers on a journey to understand the importance of water conservation. Written by renowned author Jacqueline Woodson, this beautifully illustrated story introduces us to a young girl named Princess Gie Gie who dreams of bringing clean water to her African village.

This inspiring book about sustainability for kids shines a light on the challenges faced by communities where clean water is scarce. Through Princess Gie Gie’s perspective, children will learn about the struggles and triumphs of those living in water-deprived areas.

Woodson’s lyrical prose and vivid imagery make this sustainability for kids book a powerful and engaging read. The story encourages young minds to think critically about the world around them and the importance of conserving precious resources like water.

By using synonyms for sustainability for kids, such as conservation, preservation, and environmental stewardship, The Water Princess instills in children a sense of responsibility towards our planet. Through Princess Gie Gie’s determination and resilience, young readers will be inspired to take action and make a positive impact on their own communities.

With its heartfelt message and relatable characters, The Water Princess is a must-read for children interested in understanding the global issue of water scarcity and the importance of sustainability.

The Water Princess

by Linda Sue Park

The Water Princess by Linda Sue Park is a captivating book on sustainability for kids that takes young readers on a journey to understand the importance of water conservation and the challenges faced by communities in obtaining clean water. This beautifully illustrated book about sustainability for kids tells the true story of a young African girl named Princess Gie Gie who dreams of bringing water to her village. Through her eyes, children will learn about the struggle for clean and accessible water sources, and the resilience and determination needed to overcome these obstacles. With its powerful message and relatable protagonist, The Water Princess is an inspiring and eye-opening sustainability for kids book that will leave a lasting impact.

The Water Princess

by Kate DiCamillo

The Water Princess by Kate DiCamillo is a captivating book about the struggles and triumphs of a young princess named Gie Gie. Set in a small African village, this beautifully illustrated story takes readers on a journey of hope, resilience, and the importance of sustainable living.

The Water Princess

by Patricia Polacco

The Water Princess by Patricia Polacco is a captivating book on sustainability for kids. It tells the inspiring story of a young African girl named Princess Gie Gie, who dreams of bringing clean water to her village. This beautifully illustrated book about sustainability for kids highlights the importance of water conservation and the challenges faced by communities without access to clean water. Through Princess Gie Gie’s determination and resilience, young readers will be inspired to take action and make a difference in their own communities. This sustainability for kids book is a must-read for anyone passionate about creating a more sustainable future.

The Water Princess

by Jane Yolen

The Water Princess by Jane Yolen is an enchanting book about sustainability for kids that takes young readers on a captivating journey to the heart of Africa. Inspired by the real-life story of supermodel Georgie Badiel, this beautifully illustrated tale explores the importance of water conservation and the daily challenges faced by many communities around the world.

The Water Princess

by Eve Bunting

The Water Princess by Eve Bunting is a captivating book on sustainability for kids that takes young readers on a remarkable journey to the heart of Africa. This beautifully illustrated story follows the life of Princess Gie Gie, a young girl who dreams of bringing clean water to her village.

Through Gie Gie’s eyes, children will learn about the challenges of accessing clean water in a remote African village. They will witness her determination and resilience as she walks for hours each day, braving scorching heat and dangerous animals, just to collect water for her family.

This book about sustainability for kids not only highlights the importance of water conservation but also teaches valuable lessons about appreciating the resources we often take for granted. It encourages young readers to think critically about the global water crisis and inspires them to make a positive difference in their own lives.

The Water Princess is an empowering and thought-provoking sustainability for kids book that will leave a lasting impact on its readers. It reminds us all of the importance of water, a precious resource that connects us all, and encourages children to become champions of change in their communities.

The Water Princess

by Andrea Davis Pinkney

The Water Princess is an extraordinary book about the importance of water conservation, perfect for young eco-warriors who want to make a difference. This captivating story, written by Andrea Davis Pinkney, takes readers on a journey through the eyes of a young girl named Princess Gie Gie. Set in a rural village in Africa, this beautifully illustrated book sheds light on the challenges faced by communities without access to clean water.

Gie Gie, known as the Water Princess, dreams of having clean, fresh water close to her home. Every day, she embarks on a long and treacherous journey with her mother, carrying a heavy pot on her head. They walk for miles, facing scorching heat and dangerous animals, just to fetch water from the nearest well.

Through her vivid storytelling, Pinkney encourages young readers to consider the importance of water, the scarcity of this precious resource, and the impact it has on people’s lives. The Water Princess promotes sustainability for kids by highlighting the need for conservation and the role each person can play in preserving our planet.

This heartwarming tale not only educates children about the struggles faced by communities without access to clean water but also inspires them to take action. By emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices, this book empowers young readers to make a difference in their own lives and communities.

With its powerful message and stunning illustrations by acclaimed artist Bryan Collier, The Water Princess is a must-read for children interested in sustainability, conservation, and making a positive impact on the world. This captivating story will leave a lasting impression on young minds and inspire them to become advocates for change.

The Water Princess

by Kwame Alexander

The Water Princess by Kwame Alexander is an extraordinary book about sustainability for kids that takes readers on a captivating journey filled with hope and determination. This enchanting story revolves around a young girl named Princess Gie Gie, who dreams of bringing clean water to her village. Set in the vibrant landscape of Africa, this sustainability for kids book beautifully highlights the importance of water conservation and the struggles faced by many communities around the world.

The Water Princess

by Grace Lin

The Water Princess by Grace Lin is an enchanting book about sustainability for kids. This mesmerizing tale takes young readers on a journey with a young princess named Gie Gie, who dreams of bringing water to her village in the African desert. With stunning illustrations and a heartfelt story, this sustainability for kids book teaches valuable lessons about conservation, resourcefulness, and the importance of taking care of our planet. Join Gie Gie as she embarks on an inspiring adventure that will leave readers of all ages feeling empowered to make a difference.

The Water Princess

by Cynthia Rylant

The Water Princess, written by Cynthia Rylant, is an extraordinary book on sustainability for kids that tells a captivating story about a young girl’s quest for clean water. This beautifully illustrated book takes readers on a journey to a small African village, where Princess Gie Gie dreams of bringing an end to the water scarcity and providing her community with a sustainable source of clean water.

The Water Princess

by Lois Lowry

The Water Princess by Lois Lowry is a captivating book on sustainability for kids that takes readers on a remarkable journey to understand the importance of access to clean water. This engaging tale follows the life of Princess Gie Gie, a young girl living in a small village in Africa, who dreams of bringing water to her community.

As the story unfolds, readers are introduced to the challenges faced by Princess Gie Gie and her people, who must trek for hours each day to fetch water from a distant well. Through vivid illustrations and heartfelt storytelling, the book about sustainability for kids sheds light on the scarcity of water in many parts of the world and the impact it has on communities.

With determination and resilience, Princess Gie Gie embarks on a mission to find a solution for her village’s water crisis. Along the way, she encounters various obstacles and learns valuable lessons about perseverance, hope, and the importance of preserving our planet’s resources.

This inspiring sustainability for kids book not only educates young readers about the global water crisis but also instills in them a sense of empathy and a desire to make a positive impact. Through Princess Gie Gie’s story, children are empowered to take action, whether it be raising awareness, conserving water, or supporting organizations that provide sustainable solutions.

With its beautiful illustrations, engaging narrative, and powerful message, The Water Princess is a must-read for children of all ages. It highlights the importance of water sustainability in a way that is both educational and entertaining, leaving a lasting impression on young minds and inspiring them to become advocates for a more sustainable future.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about sustainability for kids are the perfect way to introduce young minds to the importance of taking care of our planet. Each book offers a unique and engaging perspective, teaching children valuable lessons about recycling, conservation, and the power of small actions. By reading these books, kids can become inspired to become eco-conscious citizens and make a positive impact on the world around them. So, let’s dive into these books and embark on a sustainable journey with our little ones!