Holly Spindler
We share books that will teach your kids to care for animals and the planet.
In a world where children are often taught to be competitive and ambitious, where animal suffering is widespread and the planet is under threat, it can be difficult to know how to teach the next generation to stand up for what’s right.
But there is good news! There are lots of books that can help you share that message with them. Here are just a few that we like.
Charlotte’s Web by E. B. White This one is my list of favourite kids’ books, but I could read this over and over as an adult. It’s a beautiful story of an unlikely friendship between a pig and a very clever spider called Charlotte.
When Wilbur the pig realises he’ll soon become the centrepiece of the farmer’s Christmas dinner, it takes all of Charlotte’s cleverness and his other animal friends to help him. This wonderful story can help children learn empathy for animals as well as teaching them about the value of friendship.
V is for Vegan: The ABCs of Being Kind by Ruby Roth For ages 3-7, this beautiful illustrated book presents the basics of animal rights and a vegan diet through memorable rhymes.
In her book, Roth helps kids on a vegan diet grow in confidence as well as helping adults explain their ethics in an amusing, simple way that young children will understand.
Steven the Vegan by Dan Bodenstein A lovely story about a young boy who visits a farm on a school trip. Along with the animals on the farm, Steven teaches his classmates that animals are friends not food.
The book explains why people choose to be vegan, to help children understand others leading a vegan lifestyle, and how to relate to them.
A Wild Child's Guide to Endangered Animals by Millie Marotta A guide to rare and familiar endangered animals, this book, full of beautiful illustrations, will help grow children's awareness of the amazing animals that need our help.
Peppa Pig: Recycling Fun Many kids have seen the adventures of Peppa Pig on TV so are likely to love this book. Guided by Mummy Pig, Peppa and George take a trip to the recycling centre.
This book not only teaches children the importance of recycling, but also helps them learn to read.
Charlie and Lola: Look After Your Planet by Lauren Child Another book with well-known characters. In this story Charlie helps to teach little sister Lola, and the reader, about the importance of reusing and recycling. With her new-found knowledge, Lola goes on to inspire her classmates to join in.
This is a great book to inspire young children to make green choices.
One World by Michael Foreman A beautiful book that celebrates the underwater world, it tells the story of young siblings playing on the beach.
Despite being 30 years old, this book is even more relevant today than ever and will teach kids about the underwater ecosystem.
The Boy with Big, Big Feelings by Lee Britney Winn Teaching children to value empathy and emotion, this book is perfect for those who struggle with sensitivity and anxiety.
With an increase in families choosing a more compassionate lifestyle for their children and a growing importance in learning about environmental impact, it’s wonderful for young children to start learning about these things.
There are a huge number (and growing) of books out there to help you share these lessons with your children, we’ve just picked a few. If you have more that you’d love us to feature in future, do let us know!
