The theme of earth day this year is, Invest In Our Planet. I picked this picture book because, a) I am an avid hiker, and b) I think hiking with kids is one of the best ways to introduce our kids to our beautiful planet and get them invested in its conservation.
Title: The Hike
Author and Illustrator: Alison Farrell
Publisher: Chronicle Books, 2019
Ages: 2-5
Format/Genre: fiction
Themes: hiking, nature, friendship, journaling, challenges, earth day
Opening:
Synopsis:
This book tells the story of three girls’ friendship—and their tribulations and triumphs in the great outdoors. Here is the best and worst of any hike: from picnics to puffing and panting, deer-sighting to detours.
Why I like this book:
This delightful book is epic yet tender, poetic yet scientific, magical yet placed in the solid beauty of the real natural world. A wonderful picture book for all. I fell in love with these characters, the way they move through the story, the internal compasses they follow, the choices they make, the friendship and nature they enjoy.
There are so many amazing details through the pages. Little facts that do not in any way interrupt the story.
Simple yet mighty!
Resources/Activities:
Go for a hike!!
This book features a glossary, a sketchbook by one of the characters, abundant labels throughout, and scientific back matter.
Each week a group of bloggers reviews picture books we feel would make great educational reads. To help teachers, caregivers and parents, we have included resources and/or activities with each of our reviews. A complete list of the thousands of books we have reviewed can be found sorted alphabetically and by topics, here on Susanna Leonard Hill’s website.
In my 20's, with only my guitar and a rucksack, I wandered the continents, immersing myself in the lives of some wonderful people, projects and stories, which changed the way I view my responsibility to others and this earth. Right now I'm a European transplant in the US who writes books for children and young adults. Stories can help us not only navigate our world but can connect us to others, and allow us to inspire and help each other. I believe that equity and empathy should be at the core of our all actions, words, and stories.
I am also a school librarian and I get a kick out of book-matchmaking! And I use the pronouns she/her.
Being outdoors, amongst trees and flowers, listening to sounds of birds, bees, wind – these are SO important for children and the adults who love them.
This looks so fun. Can’t wait for my library hold to come in. Thank you for a great review. I love all the extra plant information on the spread. Nature, hiking, and friendship – what’s not to love.
Ideal pick for Earth Day! Getting involved with nature is so important for children. Sounds like a great read aloud at school! Thanks for sharing!
Your description of this book leads me to my SFPL website. Just put a hold on one of the 57 copies (wow!) they have! I love how the illustrator added so many fun details.