Bonus Books: August

Add these to your library list or bookstore haul this month to get the conversation started.

This month’s roundup also includes the tender story of the passing of a grandparent.

“Our Blue Planet” by Leisa Stewart-Sharpe, illustrated by Emily Dove (Paula Wiseman Books/Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, ages 4 – 8)

This gorgeous, richly detailed book is a wonderful companion to the BBC’s “Our Blue Planet” series. This is a terrific way to begin teaching young conservationists about the ocean world.

“Autumn Peltier, Water Warrior” by Carole Lindstrom, illustrated by Bridget George (Roaring Brook Press, ages 4 – 8)

Indigenous voices speak in this triumphant story that teaches early readers about the power people of all ages have to speak up for the planet, particularly the water that is “the lifeblood of Mother Earth.” For older elementary, this is a wonderful introduction to the Mother Earth Water Walkers and an invitation to dig deeper and learn more about justice for Indigenous people.

“Animal Factopia!” by Julie Beer, illustrated by Andy Smith (Britannica Books, ages 8 and older)

Bright, engaging and absolutely loaded with facts (400!), this book will have elementary ages beaming with everything that they learn here. Did you know that a frog uses its eyes to help push food down its throat? Now you do. This one is a lot of fun.

“Grandpa and the Kingfisher” by Anna Wilson, illustrated by Sarah Massini (Nosy Crow, ages 4 – 7)

Whew, parents, please preview this one first, but know that it is a lovely, gentle way to talk with littles about the passing of a grandparent. The illustrations are as peaceful as this story, which eases children into the idea that nature continues its cycle, just as one generation passes the torch to another. This book also includes a QR code for a free audio version of the story.

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Bonus Books: August