Earth Day is a perfect time to reflect on our planet’s beauty and the pressing challenges it faces. Reading books that explore the wonders of nature, the impact of climate change, and our role in preserving Earth can inspire positive change. Whether you’re looking for a children’s book that celebrates the power of nature or a deep dive into the realities of climate change, these books provide both inspiration and insight. As we get ready to celebrate Earth Day on April 22nd, they remind us of the urgency of protecting our planet and the beauty that can be found in every corner of it. Each of these books offers an opportunity to learn, reflect, and take action in preserving our natural world for future generations. Below are a few books that are meant to get a conversation started with people of all ages and a couple of lyrical meditations on the natural world since it is National Poetry Month. Hopefully these books can provide a way into a conversation to deepen our connection to our environment. 

Children’s Books

The Magic and Mystery of Trees by Jen Green, illustrated by Claire McElfatrick

A delightful introduction to the enchanting world of trees, Jen unravels the science behind trees while exploring their cultural significance and how they sustain life on Earth. With stunning illustrations and captivating facts, this book allows readers to see trees not just as part of the landscape but as living, breathing organisms full of mystery and magic.

Jayden’s Impossible Garden by Mélina Mangal, illustrated by Ken Daley

This beautifully illustrated children’s book tells the story of Jayden, a young girl who transforms her neglected urban space into a vibrant garden. This book is a hopeful and empowering tale of how even the smallest spaces can become thriving ecosystems. It’s an inspiring read that encourages young minds to take action and care for the natural world, no matter where they live.

Middle Grades

The Last Wild by Piers Torday

A gripping adventure for young readers, the book takes place in a dystopian future where animals have mysteriously disappeared. The story follows Kester, a boy with a unique connection to the last remaining animals, as he embarks on a journey to save them. A powerful tale of survival, friendship, and the importance of protecting wildlife, this book highlights the need to preserve the biodiversity of our planet.

Turtles of the Midnight Moon by María José Fitzgerald

In this heartwarming novel, readers are transported to an enchanting world where young Nina discovers the turtles nesting along the beaches of Sri Lanka. As she learns about the life cycle of turtles and their endangered status, Nina becomes inspired to protect them. This book beautifully weaves together themes of conservation, heritage, and the importance of safeguarding the natural world.

Young Adult 

Dry by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman

Set in a near-future world where water scarcity has reached a critical level, this book explores the devastating consequences of climate change and the struggle for survival. This fast-paced, thought-provoking novel illustrates the very real challenges our world may face if we do not address the climate crisis and manage our natural resources wisely. It encourages readers to reflect on the urgency of water conservation and the global nature of environmental crises.

Orleans by Sherri L. Smith

Pairing well with Dry, this novel is set in a future where New Orleans is submerged due to rising sea levels caused by climate change. The protagonist, Hope, must navigate this challenging world and grapple with the consequences of human activity on the environment. The book delves into themes of resilience, adaptation, and the need to recognize our collective responsibility in combating climate change.

Adult

The Uninhabitable Earth by David Wallace-Wells

For readers seeking a more analytical look at the state of our planet, The Uninhabitable Earth offers a stark, compelling exploration of the effects of climate change. It examines the potential catastrophic scenarios that could unfold if global warming continues unchecked. While the book is often unsettling, it serves as an urgent call to action to address the climate crisis before it’s too late.

What If We Get It Right? Visions of Climate Futures by Ayana Elizabeth Johnson

Ayana Elizabeth Johnson brings together a collection of visionary essays from experts and activists who offer solutions to the climate crisis. Instead of focusing solely on the problems, this book imagines possible futures in which humanity successfully mitigates the effects of climate change. It’s a hopeful and optimistic read that invites readers to envision a sustainable and just future for all and a great pairing with The Uninhabitable Earth. 

Poetry

Water, Water: Poems by Billy Collins

This collection of poetry celebrates the beauty and importance of water in our lives. It is a lyrical meditation on how water connects us all, whether through oceans, rivers, or even rain. Billy’s graceful words evoke the vital role water plays in sustaining life, making this collection an ideal read for those looking to appreciate the quiet yet profound significance of this precious resource.

A Thousand Mornings: Poems by Mary Oliver

Mary’s poetry is a powerful reminder of the natural world’s beauty, and A Thousand Mornings is no exception. Through her observations of landscapes, animals, and the cycles of life, she invites readers to reflect on their own connection to the Earth. Her evocative words encourage a deep sense of wonder and reverence for the world around us, making her work perfect for Earth Day reading.

Happy Reading, and Happy Earth Day!

Featured in the April 5, 2025 issue of The Independent