We’ve talked before about the power of storytelling for evoking emotions and forging connections to the natural world. The right books are not only enjoyable to read but leave a lasting impression – whether it’s educating children on ways they can help the environment or helping them to understand that they are a part of nature. 

Below, we’ve recommended a good mix of books - short and long, picture books and novels - that will do just that. A few of them are available on our shop and, for those that aren’t, we have linked to their respective Goodreads pages so you can find out more. 

1. Please Help Planet Earth  

A Ladybird eco book 

Recommended reading age: 2-5 years 

Please Help Planet Earth is the perfect toddler-friendly introduction to climate change and environmental issues. It’s written from the perspective of our planet and is packed with simple ways children can make a difference, from putting food out for birds to growing plants for bees and butterflies. 

Better yet, you can rest assured that the book itself is eco-friendly – it's made entirely from recycled board, using plant-based inks and glues with minimal plastic content! 

Buy on our shop 

2. The Bison & the Butterfly  

By Alice Hemming & Nancy Leschnikoff (Illustrator) 

Recommended reading age: 3-7 years 

We might be biased but our own story makes the cut in our books... This touching ecosystem story, written by award-winning author Alice Hemming and illustrated fantastically by Nancy Leschnikoff, is all about friendship and the parts we play in our environments and communities. 

Inspired by Kent Wildlife Trust’s Wilder Blean wilding project, the book is educational as well as relational, exploring some of the science behind rewilding. 

The bonus? All profits from the sale of this book go towards nature conservation in Kent! 

Buy on our shop 

3. You Belong Here  

By M.H. Clark & Isabelle Arsenault (Illustrator) 

Recommended reading age: 4-8 

A little different from some of the others on this list, You Belong Here is a lyrical, poetic picture book all about your place in the world.  

Through Arsenault’s beautiful illustrations and Clark’s comforting words, it reinforces the idea that everything in nature - ourselves included - has a purpose and belongs. This is a message that we think is all-too important in an increasingly disconnected world. 

Learn more on Goodreads 

4. Yucky Worms  

By Viv French & Jessica Ahlberg (Illustrator) 

Recommended reading age: 4-8 years 

It’s so ingrained in us that worms are ‘yucky’ that even us adults can have a hard time appreciating their impact! While they might be slimy and wriggly, the humble earthworm plays a crucial role in soil health and the ecosystem. 

With its engaging illustrations and simple, humorous storytelling, Yucky Worms teaches kids not to judge a creature by its looks. 

Learn more on Goodreads 

5. The Tiny Seed  

By Eric Carle 

Recommended reading age: 5-7 years 

Most adults out there will remember The Very Hungry Caterpillar (1969) as a childhood reading staple of their own. The Tiny Seed, published just a year later by the same author, is just as compelling for little ones. 

Through story and collage, Eric Carle transforms the simple life of a plant into an inspiring lesson. Not only does this book relay the natural life cycle of plants and the seasons of the year, it also teaches kids about the importance of persevering even when things don’t go the way you had hoped! 

Learn more on Goodreads 

6. What to Look for in Spring  

By Elizabeth Jenner  

Recommended reading age: 7-9 years 

Part of Ladybird’s year-round What to Look for series, this is a great starter book for budding naturalists. Beautifully illustrated and easy to read, it encourages children to notice the changes of the season and helps them to start identifying seasonal wildlife. 

The perfect family walk companion! 

Learn more on Goodreads 

7. The Wonder Garden  

By Jenny Broom & Kristjana S Williams (Artist) 

Recommended reading age: 7-10 years+ 

This gorgeous non-fiction book will have you questioning whether it’s really just for children – we’re sure you’ll find yourself enjoying it just as much as your little ones. It explores a handful of diverse habitats around the world, from the Great Barrier Reef to the Amazon rainforest.  

Each page is a work of art, with captivating details and facts that will ignite the imagination of young readers and foster a real sense of appreciation for our planet’s biodiversity. 

Learn more on Goodreads 

8. Sky Dancer 

By Gill Lewis 

Recommended reading age: 6-10 years+ 

Sky Dancer tells the story of a boy whose family has a tradition of grouse shooting. When he starts to question the harm it brings to the endangered hen harriers, he’s faced with the challenges that sometimes come with standing up for wildlife. 

An inspiring tale for young conservationists, this moving story is an homage to wildness and a call-to-action to restore British wildlife. 

Learn more on Goodreads 

9. By Rowan and Yew  

By Melissa Harrison 

Recommended reading age: 9+ 

The second book in Harrison’s By Ash, Oak, and Thorn series, this one follows three small ancient beings known as ‘Hidden Folk’ as they navigate a world where natural places are vanishing day by day. 

This magical story highlights the importance of protecting wild spaces for future generations and encourages children to notice the wildlife around them. 

Buy on our shop 

10. Beetle Boy  

By M.G. Leonard 

Recommended reading age: 10+ 

The first book in a trilogy by M.G. Leonard, this almost-300-page novel is made for slightly older readers. It follows the story of a boy whose father (Director of Science at the Natural History Museum, no less!) goes missing without a trace. The boy, Darkus, has to move in with his uncle Max, nextdoor to two cousins with a beetle infestation. He soon finds out they are a super intelligent species at risk of being exterminated... Can they help each other? 

An excellent read for late primary / early secondary school readers with an interest in mystery, adventure, and so-called “creepy crawlies”! 

Buy on our shop 

Happy reading! For more nature-related reads for all ages, check out our online shop.