10 Things I Can Do to Help My World

There are many books on the market about environmental issues – recycling and conserving energy – but some put us off with finger wagging instructions that tell us the ‘right’ thing to do. This book shines out because its tone is friendly and inviting; it is a child’s ‘voice’ that draws in young readers and listeners. The size, strength and orientation of the print varies to add meaning to the text. And, of course, the bold and bright illustrations appeal enormously. The creator of the book uses page-flaps to reveal the ‘before’ and the ‘after’: the sink with the taps running and the taps shut; the litter on the ground and in the bin. I particularly like the child-like drawings showing that we can use ‘both sides of the paper’. Finally, a flap can be lifted to show a map of the world, the world whose welfare makes all the recycling effort worthwhile.

The book is large enough to share with the class or a group and should awaken worthwhile and focused discussion. Just small things – switching off lights and TVs and walking to school – if done by many of us can make all the difference. And the suggestions are realistic. They would be a good starting point for making a class book on further ideas.