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Children’s Book Blog: April 2026

Earth Day!

Earth Day is April 22, 2026. 

“Environmental progress is built through everyday action—from communities protecting ecosystems to innovators advancing solutions. Clean air, safe water, and climate resilience aren’t optional—they’re essential. For Earth Day 2026, we’re mobilizing at scale. Every action counts. Every voice matters.” -from earthday.org 

Here are a few standout titles that encourage kids to appreciate—and protect—our one and only home. Titles that prove every action counts and every voice matters.

Bonus: Three of these titles are brand new to our shelves (as of April 2026). 


Black Beach by Shaunna & John Smith and Maribel Lechuga

For a blog on Earth Day, we had to start with an origin story! Black Beach tells the story of the 1969 Santa Barbara oil spill, which prompted the creation of Earth Day. 

I love when nonfiction children’s literature is presented in a storytelling format – it makes it really accessible.  Black Beach is engaging and educational for kids and adults alike.

Joanna and Connor liked the end page about how to become environmental activists – proud of what they are already doing and excited to take additional actions on the list. 

Bothered By Bugs by Emily Gravett

Introducing a new favorite in our house! I hadn’t even started reading and Connor exclaimed, “I like this book!”; that’s how amazing the illustrations are! Colorful, detailed and whimsical. 

While the art initially steals the show, the rhyming story is beautifully done, too. A group of animals, once bothered by bugs, quickly learns how important they are. 

A great reminder that all life is connected and deserves a place on Earth!

What A Waste by Jess French

This book is not a waste – it’s a gem! 

This is a nonfiction book even adults should read.  Packed with eye-opening facts and bold visuals, What A Waste breaks down the global problems of waste, pollution, and more. From plastic in our oceans to overflowing landfills, it explains what’s happening—and, more importantly, what we can do to help. 

I will note that I personally get dispirited when I read about this topic; it feels so out of control and daunting. But, this is a great pick for empowering kids (and adults!) with real-world knowledge and practical solutions.  

If This Were The World by Stephen Barr and AG Ford

With fairness and stewardship at the forefront, this thought-provoking book helps kids understand big concepts by scaling the world down into relatable comparisons. 

‘With every world they dismiss, the kids figure out more about what kind of world they want. Maybe there really is only one world that gives us everything we need – but it needs a few things from us, too.’ 

However, even if the important message goes right over your child’s head, it is a FUN book with ‘kids experimenting, clashing and chasing their imaginations.’ 

The Great Bear by Annie Booker

Since the dawn of time, the Great Bear has patrolled the oceans, protecting the Earth and her animals and overseeing the delicate balance of life. But now, one creature is changing everything.  Spoiler alert: the creature is us – humans. 

Written like a classic folklore, The Great Bear gently explores environmental responsibility and conservation themes. 

 

 

A note on this blog: Michelle Milford is the Office & Marketing Manager at Town Hall Library.  She has two young children – Joanna (8) and Connor (6).  All three have a deep love of books and voracious appetites for reading.  Here they’ll share their monthly book recommendations.