NNFN2023: The Story of Conservation

Long ago, our planet was blanketed with dark forests, dripping rainforests, frozen deserts, mighty mountains, sun-baked grasslands and rich blue seas.

Called ‘The Story of Conservation’ for good reason, this lovely book explains the changes in the human relationship with the planet and how we have come to better understand our relationship with, and responsibility for, our planet. Clearly written in accessible language, the text does indeed tell a story, which, although not shying away from the damage being done, ends on a note of hope for the future.

Laid out chronologically with the date clearly shown on each spread, the story moves from prehistory to the present day. Throughout the book, respect is shown for Indigenous peoples, living in traditional ways and keeping in harmony with nature, who were often moved from their lands to make way for ‘development’ and even for conservation when Yellowstone became the world’s first national park. The book also celebrates actions being taken by local communities- those in Japan which blocked coal-fired power stations which polluted the environment, those in Ghana which keep snails, rabbits and bees instead of hunting, those in Oslo who have created bee-friendly gardens- offering inspiration for those reading the book.

The glossary at the end of the book is perfect for supporting children’s understanding of the terms used in the book. This attractive and informative book is perfect for reading multiple times, allowing children to take something more from it with each read.

The Story of Conservation: A First Book About Protecting Nature

Catherine Barr and Steve Williams, illustrated by Amy Husband

Frances Lincoln ISBN: 978-0711278035

‘The Secret Life of Oceans’ written by Moira Butterfield is a perfect book for this year’s Wonderful Water theme and a guest post by Moira is being shared on the FCBG blog today. As well as celebrating life in ocean, it also shares some watery traditional tales from around the world.

The Secret Life of Oceans

Moira Butterfield, illustrated by Vivian Mineker

Happy Yak ISBN: 978-0711278691

You can read my review of ‘A Turtle’s View of the Ocean Blue’ by Catherine here and ‘The Secret Life of Bees by Moira here.