New Environmental Justice Titles Resonate with Kids and Teens

Our disconnect with nature contributes to growing environmental problems for all of us. Moreover, while everyone faces mounting ocean plastic and climate change emergencies, Black, Indigenous, children of color, and children from marginalized families are disproportionately exposed to these negative effects. Yet a growing body of research tells us making connections to nature improves our health and defines our cultural identities.

Join three award-winning children's authors with a passion for reconnecting readers to nature. Using the power of story - both real and fiction - Carole Lindstrom (author of We Are Water Protectors, illustrated by Caldecott Medalist Michaela Goade), Mélina Mangal (noted Black author and Minnesota librarian), and Sibert Honor author Patricia Newman (whose work features the Inupiat of Alaska, native Indonesians, and Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest) demonstrate why the environment is also a social justice topic.

Discussion will center around how to recognize environmental injustice and how select children's books can help students develop stronger connections to nature and become more aware of equitable solutions. Participants will also reaffirm their connections to nature.