As the warm days of summer begin to fade and autumn quickly approaches, there’s no better time to help your little explorer dive into the wonders of nature! Our curated list of the best books for young nature lovers celebrates the great outdoors, offering enchanting stories and fascinating facts to inspire curiosity and a deeper appreciation for our environment. These titles are perfect for late summer adventures and cozy fall reading. Help your child discover the beauty and magic that surrounds them every day with these top five reads.
“The Eyes and the Impossible” by Dave Eggers is the perfect nature book because it captures the intricate relationships between animals and their environment. Readers will follow with Johannes, a free-spirited dog, who lives in an urban park. Johannes is known as the Eyes of the park as he is responsible for reporting to the elders, three ancient bison. Eggers masterfully blends vivid descriptions of natural settings with the unique perspectives of animal characters, highlighting their roles in maintaining ecological balance. The narrative explores themes of environmental change and how humans impact nature. By weaving a compelling story that emphasizes the beauty and interconnectedness of the natural world, the book encourages readers to appreciate and protect the environment around them.
Based off the coast of California, “Odder” by Katherine Applegate is inspired by the true story of the Monterey Bay Aquarium program that helps find surrogate mothers for orphaned otter pups. The main character, Odder, is fearless and enjoys practicing her water aerobics. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she stumbles across a hungry great white shark, challenging everything she believes about herself and the humans who strive to save her. A nature enthusiast will appreciate the focus on marine life throughout this read. Readers will gain insight into otters' behavior, their habitats, and the challenges they face in the wild. This book also addresses important environmental issues, such as pollution, habitat destruction, and the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems. These themes will resonate with nature-loving families who are passionate about conservation and protecting wildlife.
Your young nature lover will be obsessed with “Sal Boat: A Boat by Sal” by Thyra Heder. The imaginative book follows Sal who loves the water and dreams of being on the waves. With determination, he decides to make his dream a reality by building a boat. With vibrant illustrations and a narrative that flows as smoothly as the water Sal longs to sail on, Heder masterfully brings to life the joys of childhood exploration and the magic of making dreams come true. This title focuses on perseverance, community, and creativity. In the end, it shares a great lesson, that we all may need some help from our friends.
This Caldecott Honor Book is the perfect choice for any child who loves the outdoors. “Berry Song” by Michaela Goade is full of illustrations of landscapes that are brightly colored and the text teaches young children the importance of caring for our environment. This lyrical book follows a young girl and her grandmother as they embark on a journey through the lush wilderness to gather berries. As they wander through the forest, the grandmother shares stories and wisdom about their heritage and the deep connection between people and the land. The picture book is full of themes that focus on our connection to nature, cultural heritage, and family bonds. The author encourages readers to have a sense of gratitude and mindfulness for our environment and what it provides for us.
Erin Entrada Kelly takes us on a funny, unexpected journey throughout their novel “Hello, Universe”. This middle-grade novel intertwines the lives of four very different kids and explores themes of friendship, courage, and the power of being oneself. One of the main characters, Valencia, has an affinity for nature. She often explores the woods near her home and observes animals. Her curiosity and respect for the natural world help her cope with being lonely. The four characters converge in an unexpected way when one of the children is being bullied which results in them being trapped in a well. It’s up to the unlikely friends to confront their fears and come together to rescue their new friend. Overall, “Hello, Universe” is a heartfelt tale that celebrates diversity, friendship, and facing one’s fear.
In “Northwind” by Gary Paulsen, an orphan named Leif is forced to flee his small fishing camp when a deadly plague strikes. Setting out in a cedar canoe, he navigates a rugged, fjord-filled coastline, encountering danger at every turn. As he ventures further north, Leif connects with the primal forces of nature, discovering his true self along the way. Infused with Nordic mythology and a gripping narrative, “Northwind” showcases Paulsen's masterful storytelling at its best. Nature lovers will enjoy this middle read because it immerses readers in the raw beauty and power of the natural world. The book vividly portrays the wild landscapes of forests and the open sea, capturing the rhythm and majesty of the environment. Leif's deepening connection to nature, as he learns to survive and thrive in this untamed world, resonates with those who appreciate the wilderness.
These enchanting titles not only offer captivating stories but also inspire a profound appreciation for the natural world in young readers. As the seasons transition, let these books serve as a bridge between summer fun and autumn adventures, nurturing a love for nature and a curiosity about the environment. Encourage your young explorer to dive into these stories, fostering a lifelong passion for the beauty and magic that surrounds them every day.
