Like the Ocean We Rise; Nicola Edwards, illustrated by Sarah Wilkins

It is never too soon to be teaching children about climate change, the crisis that our planet faces and what actions can be taken to stop things getting worse. A good place to start would be with this superb non-fiction poetic narrative.

Our vast and beautiful planet is a thing of beauty with its green forests and blue oceans. But all is not well, our precious home is sick. Icecaps are melting, the air is polluted, seas are in peril, green spaces are disappearing, trees are being chopped down and extreme weather is leaving animals hungry, thirsty and homeless. The Earth needs your help and the time for action is now…

Nicola Edwards and Sarah Wilkins explore the human impact on the planet and how everyone can make a difference no matter how small they may feel in this important picture book. Told in beautiful rhyming text and with gorgeous artwork, it delivers a thought-provoking and timely message that is sure to resonate with young children, especially those keen activists and eco-warriors who care about the planet and the environment.

What starts out small - represented by a single cutout rain drop - becomes a wave of momentum by the end as children from across the globe fight for change. I love the rain drop analogy and the idea that when each one falls it makes a ripple. The children in the story passionately use the ripple effect of a single raindrop to turn the tide on climate change.

A simple and clear message is delivered through examples from around the world signalling that the battle cannot be won from one place alone; the bleached coral in Queensland, Australia to Greta Thunberg striking for climate change in Sweden, Uganda’s dry desert plains to the rainforest deforestations in the Amazon, the melting polar icecaps to Delhi’s polluted streets. Popping up in these various locations are young children who are doing their part to protect the planet.

Climate change is bigger than just one person but every small action action causes a reaction and together we can make a difference. Like the Ocean We Rise is a wonderful introduction to climate change and the many problems the world faces with plenty of practical tips and further information included at the end. Children will feel empowered to make a difference, to protest for change, to make sure their voices are heard and to advocate for a cleaner and safer world.

Recommended for 5+.