If I Were the World; Mark Sperring, illustrated by Natelle Quek

It’s impossible to ignore, our planet needs looking after. In our short time here and as custodians, we have a duty of care to this most special of places and we must embrace our responsibility to look after it for future generations.

Our world…beautiful, magical and no where else like it. But we are in grave danger of spoiling it. Plastic clogs the oceans, forests are being cut down, temperatures and seas are rising, habitats are disappearing, the livelihoods of animals are threatened and the air is becoming dangerously toxic. Once happy, the world is becoming increasingly sad. But it doesn’t have to be this way, there is hope. All the world asks for is a little tender, loving, care to help it heal…

The world is given thoughts and a voice in a beautifully illustrated, poetic rallying cry for help that is thought-provoking, challenging, upsetting and ultimately hopeful in its delivery of a planet in crisis. There is no room for doubt as to the extent of the problems faced as plastic-filled oceans, suffocating air pollution, loss of species, destruction of habitats, global warming and rising sea levels stare back at the reader in the first half of the book. Whilst this is sad and and confronting there is hope and young children will be implored to take action by the empowering pages that make up the second half. Following in the kind and caring actions of the young protagonists, oceans can be cleaned, recycling can be done, deforestation can be challenged, kindness to animals can be offered, greenery can thrive in urban places and air quality can be improved.

A superb way to introduce young children to the challenges that the planet faces and with plenty of ideas to make a positive impact. The only crime is inaction so do the world a favour and help it please. It is, after all, the only one that we have.

Recommended for 4+.

With huge thanks to Bloomsbury for the copy I received in exchange for an honest review.