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Author: Ann E. Burg | Illustrator: Sean Qualls | ISBN: 978-0545535670 | Publisher: Scholastic Press

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Serafina has
a secret dream.

She wants to go to school
and become a doctor
with her best friend, Julie Marie.

But in their rural village
outside Port-au-Prince, Haiti,
many obstacles
stand in Serafina’s way--
little money,
never-ending chores,
and Manman’s worries.

More powerful even
than all of these
are the heavy rains
and the shaking earth
that test Serafina’s resolve
in ways she never dreamed.

At once heartbreaking and hopeful,
this exquisitely crafted story
will leave a lasting impression
on your heart.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17270515-serafina-s-promise

This tale of one girl’s aspirations to be a doctor is a sad and unflinching depiction of poverty in Haiti but also an uplifting story about the power of love. Serafina both gives to and receives from her parents an understanding and fervent love. It’s this nucleus of her family which supports her through all hardships. This is a thoroughly engrossing piece of imagined reality, guaranteed to whet the appetite for more such literature. It is also saturated with warmth in its tales of friendship, experiences that buoy the narrator even as she watches a baby brother fade into nothingness, blighting her faith in humanity.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/1archive/

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Author: Matt de la Pena | Illustrator: Christian Robinson | ISBN: 978-0399257742 | Publisher: G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Reader

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"Sometimes when you're surrounded by dirt, CJ, you're a better witness for what's beautiful."

CJ begins his weekly bus journey around the city with disappointment and dissatisfaction, wondering why he and his family can't drive a car like his friends. Through energy and encouragement, CJ's nana helps him see the beauty and fun in their routine.

This beautifully illustrated, emotive picture book explores urban life with honesty, interest and gratitude.

Last Stop on Market Street has won multiple awards and spent time at the number one spot in the New York Times Bestseller List.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22521973-last-stop-on-market-street

A beautifully illustrated book that looks at material poverty through the eyes of a young boy who rides on a bus with his grandmother across town. As CJ points out the things that other people have that he doesn’t, his grandmother responds with a positive and hopeful answer to show the beauty of life’s simpler things, the wonderful people who they know and meet on their ride through the city, and how rich their lives already are.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/1archive/

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Read 3,277 reviews from the world's largest community for readers. "Sometimes when you're surrounded by dirt, CJ, you're a better witness for what's beauti...

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Author: Vera B Williams | Illustrator: Vera B Williams | ISBN: 978-0688040741 | Publisher: Greenwillow Books

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After their home is destroyed by a fire, Rosa, her mother and grandmother save their coins to buy a really comfortable chair for all to enjoy.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/835202.A_Chair_for_My_Mother

This book describes the dedication in restoring and rebuilding your life after a devastating fire. The fear and uncertainty are real for so many people around the world living in poverty. This book gives hope and is the perfect example of giving to those in need. The little girl focuses on the important things in life and the importance of giving and doing something for others. This story also shows how three strong women overcome hardship and restore their lives.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/1archive/

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Read 1,102 reviews from the world's largest community for readers. After their home is destroyed by a fire, Rosa, her mother and grandmother save their coi...

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Author: Oscar Wilde | Illustrator: Maisie Paradise Shearring | ISBN: 978-0500651117 | Publisher: Thames & Hudson

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High above a city stands a gilded statue of the Happy Prince and a swallow who both witness the suffering, injustice and poverty of the people below. At the behest of the Happy Prince, the swallow begins to strip the statue of its jewels and gold leaf to give to the city’s poor. A poignant story by Oscar Wilde about compassion, charity, and selflessness.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/1archive/

Originally published by Oscar Wilde in 1888, The Happy Prince is the much- loved story of a gilded statue, a kind- hearted Swallow, and generosity of spirit. A Swallow bound for Egypt takes refuge at the feet of a golden statue of a prince erected in a European town, agreeing to bring pieces of the statue to less fortunate city dwellers at the request of the prince himself.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34445372-the-happy-prince

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Author: Katie Smith Milway | Illustrator: Sylvie Daigneault | ISBN: 978-1554534883 | Publisher: Kids Can Press

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The Good Garden: How One Family Went from Hunger to Having Enough

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The Good Garden: How One Family Went from Hunger to Having Enough

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Eleven-year-old María Luz and her family live on a small farm. This year their crop is poor, and they may not have enough to eat or to sell for other essentials, such as health care, school uniforms and books.

When María's father must leave home to find work, she is left in charge of their garden. Then a new teacher comes to María's school and introduces her to sustainable farming practices that yield good crops. As María begins to use the same methods at home, she too sees improvements, which allow her family to edge their way out of the grip of the greedy ?coyotes? --- the middlemen who make profits on the backs of poor farmers. Little by little, the farms --- and the hopes --- of María and her neighbors are transformed as good gardens begin to grow.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8666745-the-good-garden

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/2archive/

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Eleven-year-old María Luz and her family live on a small farm. This year their crop is poor, and they may not have enough to eat or to se...

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Author: Oge Mora| ISBN: 978-0316431248 | Publisher: Little, Brown and Company

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Omu prepares her favourite thick red stew, the amazing smell wafts out of the window and one by one Omu receives visitors who are all enticed by the stew smell. Omu generously shares her food with all the visitors but finds herself in the evening with an empty pot. Her stew has prompted everyone in the community to bring their own dish to share with Omu and everyone sits down to a real feast.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/2archive/

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34642482-thank-you-omu

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Read 884 reviews from the world’s largest community for readers. A generous woman is rewarded by her community in this remarkable author-illustrator debut …

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Author: Lois Brandt | Illustrator: Vin Vogel | ISBN: 978-1936261291| Publisher: Flashlight Press

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Best friends Sofia and Maddi live in the same neighborhood, go to the same school, and play in the same park, but while Sofia’s fridge at home is full of nutritious food, the fridge at Maddi’s house is empty. Sofia learns that Maddi’s family doesn’t have enough money to fill their fridge and promises Maddi she’ll keep this discovery a secret. But because Sofia wants to help her friend, she’s faced with a difficult decision: to keep her promise or tell her parents about Maddi’s empty fridge.
Filled with colorful artwork, this storybook addresses issues of poverty with honesty and sensitivity while instilling important lessons in friendship, empathy, trust, and helping others.
A call to action section, with six effective ways for children to help fight hunger and information on antihunger groups, is also included.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20949046-maddi-s-fridge

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/2archive/

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Author: Jon J. Muth | Illustrator: Jon J. Muth | ISBN: 978-0439339094 | Publisher: Scholastic Press; 1st edition

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Three strangers, hungry and tired, pass through a war-torn village. Embittered and suspicious from the war, the people hide their food and close their windows tight. That is, until the clever strangers suggest making a soup from stones. Intrigued by the idea, everyone brings what they have until-- together, they have made a feast fit for a king!
In this inspiring story about the strength people possess when they work together, Muth takes a simple, beloved tale and adds his own fresh twist.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/331701.Stone_Soup

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/2archive/

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Three strangers, hungry and tired, pass through a war-torn village. Embittered and suspicious from the war, the people hide their food and close their windows tight. That is, until the clever strangers suggest making a soup from stones. Intrigued by the idea, everyone brings what they have until-- together, they have made a feast fit for a king!
In this inspiring story about the strength people possess when they work together, Muth takes a simple, beloved tale and adds his own fresh twist.

About the author

Jon J. Muth is an American comic artist. His works include J. M. DeMatteis' graphic novel Moonshadow, Neil Gaiman's The Sandman: The Wake (along with Michael Zulli, Charles Vess), Mike Cary's Lucifer: Nirvana and Swamp Thing: Roots. Muth has gone on to an award-winning career as a children's book writer and illustrator. He received a Gold Medal from the Society of Illustrators for his illustrations in Come On, Rain! by Karen Hesse.
He has also created a version of the Stone soup fable set in China.

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Three strangers, hungry and tired, pass through a war-torn village. Embittered and suspicious from the war, the people hide their food an...

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Author: Anne C. Bromley | Illustrator: Robert Casilla | ISBN: 978-0884483113| Publisher: Tilbury House Publishers

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His mom had packed his lunch bag with two burritos, a bag of corn chips, some carrots, and an apple. Once a week she tucks in a slice of her special lemon pound cake. Rafael saw Kevin, a new kid in his class, sneak his lunch bag from underneath his desk and tuck it in his backpack. But how can he do something about the theft without picking a fight? Inspired by his mother's advice to “Use your mouth before your fists,” Rafael bides his time, but other kids' lunches are disappearing, too. On an errand with his mom, Rafael sees Kevin carrying a bundle of laundry into a motel room, and his mom tells him Kevin's family might be one of the families who lost their homes in the recent wildfires. Rafael rethinks his anger. The next day, instead of accusing Kevin, Rafael
invites him to share his lunch, letting Kevin know he's been caught, but offering friendship as well as lunch.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8517899-the-lunch-thief

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/2archive/

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Kevin is a new boy at school who has been stealing his classmates lunches. When Rafael's notices his lunch (containing 2 burritos, chips, carrots, and an apple) he doesn't know what to do. After talking to his mom about this, and seeing Kevin at a local motel Rafael decides to share his lunch with Kevin.

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Author: Thich Nhat Hahn | Illustrations: Wietske Vriezen | ISBN: 978-1937006211| Publisher: Plum Blossom

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A handful of quiet: happiness in four pebbles

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A handful of quiet: happiness in four pebbles

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Pebble meditation is a groundbreaking and completely unique technique to introduce children to the calming practice of meditation. Developed by Zen master, best selling author, and peace Nobel Prize nominee Thich Nhat Hanh A Handful of Quiet contains complete instructions for pebble meditation designed to involve children in a hands-on and creative way that touches on their interconnection with nature. Whether practiced alone or with the whole family, pebble meditation can help relieve stress, increase concentration, nourish gratitude, and can help children deal with difficult emotions.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13590614-a-handful-of-quiet

A beautifully illustrated and simply explained introduction to mindfulness for children, based on holding, drawing or focusing on everyday tangible objects such as pebbles, marbles or beans. Meditation and mindfulness are great tools for mental and physical health and well-being. Renowned Buddhist teacher Thich Nhat Hahn shares his creative, hands-on approach for children and families to help relieve stress, increase concentration and deal with difficult emotions. This book can be read by an older child alone or used as a guide for parents and educators to teach children a simple meditation technique. It includes practical projects and tools to set all members of the family on the path to a healthier life.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/3archive/

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Thích Nhất Hạnh was a Vietnamese Buddhist monk, teacher, author, poet and peace activist who now lived in southwest France where he was in exile for many years. Born Nguyễn Xuân Bảo, Thích Nhất Hạnh joined a Zen (Vietnamese: Thiền) monastery at the age of 16, and studied Buddhism as a novitiate. Upon his ordination as a monk in 1949, he assumed the Dharma name Thích Nhất Hạnh. Thích is an honorary family name used by all Vietnamese monks and nuns, meaning that they are part of the Shakya (Shakyamuni Buddha) clan. He was often considered the most influential living figure in the lineage of Lâm Tế (Vietnamese Rinzai) Thiền, and perhaps also in Zen Buddhism as a whole.

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A Handful of Quiet book. Read 60 reviews from the world's largest community for readers. Pebble meditation is a groundbreaking and completely unique tech...

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Author: Arata Tendo | Illustrator: Ryoji Arai | ISBN: 978-1592702374 | Publisher: Enchanted Lion Books

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“What’s up?” “What happened?” “What’s wrong?” Pan, the hero of this story, never stops asking questions.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34381095-what-what-what

Asking so many questions all the time can be irritating: “What’s up? What’s happened? What’s going on?”. Pan just wants to satisfy his curiosity but he often makes people annoyed. But one day his persistent questions lead him to help a child in a serious situation with the solidarity of the entire community supporting him. Pan’s efforts pay off and lead to a positive outcome in this story that deals with difficult issues in a child-friendly and thought-provoking way.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/3archive/

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Jan 29, 2018 Rebecca rated it really liked it

This Japanese translation from Enchanted Lion Books packs a punch for older readers. Third-grader Pan never stops asking questions; his family is at their wit's end. But this isn't a book about how Pan learns how to conform. He keeps noticing and keeps asking, especially about those who are escaping notice and need the attention -- a man who may be contemplating suicide; a classmate with bruises on his face. His questions finally rally the community to help.
Ryoji Arai, a famous illustrator in J
This Japanese translation from Enchanted Lion Books packs a punch for older readers. Third-grader Pan never stops asking questions; his family is at their wit's end. But this isn't a book about how Pan learns how to conform. He keeps noticing and keeps asking, especially about those who are escaping notice and need the attention -- a man who may be contemplating suicide; a classmate with bruises on his face. His questions finally rally the community to help.
Ryoji Arai, a famous illustrator in Japan and Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award Winner, has created pictures that are the closest to actual children's art that I've seen. They are very fitting in this context, as even Pan doesn't understand all that he sees, but persists in his curiosity.

There is much to discuss here. Don't miss the note at the end about the translation of the title.

Seen on Betsy Bird's blog: http://blogs.slj.com/afuse8production...
...more

I received this book for free from Goodreads.
Mature subject matter for a children's book, and a good message for any age. The illustrations appear childlike, but are very well done when examined more closely. A story about unrelenting curiosity with kind intentions. A good reminder to all of us to not turn a blind eye on those in need.
I received this book for free from Goodreads.
Mature subject matter for a children's book, and a good message for any age. The illustrations appear childlike, but are very well done when examined more closely. A story about unrelenting curiosity with kind intentions. A good reminder to all of us to not turn a blind eye on those in need.
...more

This is a book about a boy named Pan, who isn't afraid to ask a lot of questions. One day he sees a boy at the park that needs someone to notice him. Pan sees him and doesn't quite asking questions until he knows the boy is alright. I the pictures are also great. Thank you to Arata Tendo and Goodreads for this book. This is a book about a boy named Pan, who isn't afraid to ask a lot of questions. One day he sees a boy at the park that needs someone to notice him. Pan sees him and doesn't quite asking questions until he knows the boy is alright. I the pictures are also great. Thank you to Arata Tendo and Goodreads for this book. ...more

Jun 30, 2018 Jean rated it really liked it

Please don’t make my mistake...I put this down because of its length. But I went back to it. So powerful! It’s wild that the last sentence on the front end paper is”...ignorance is always a choice, and there are many things around us that demand a second look.”

Apparently a naive picture book but there is so much behind this story - the concept of intentional provocation and questioning on the part of children is something so important but still underserved in children’s books.

Interesting kid's book. Deep subject matter handled well. It was originally done by a Japanese author and illustrator. Pictures are childlike and unusual. Good message. Interesting kid's book. Deep subject matter handled well. It was originally done by a Japanese author and illustrator. Pictures are childlike and unusual. Good message. ...more

Nov 17, 2017 Keitha rated it it was amazing

This picture book takes patience but is well worth it. Older children will understand the story best.

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Mahogany L. Browne is the author of Chlorine Sky, Woke: A Young Poets Call to Justice, Woke Baby, and Black Girl Magic. She's also the...

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Read 7 reviews from the world’s largest community for readers. “What’s up?” “What happened?” “What’s wrong?” Pan, the hero of this story, never stops askin…

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Author: Susan Verde | Illustrator: Peter H. Reynolds | ISBN: 978-1419727016 | Publisher: Harry N. Abrams

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Mindfulness means being fully in the present moment. Children can learn how to manage their emotions, make good choices, and balance their busy lives by learning to be mindful, express emotions through speech, find empathy through imagination, and wonder at the beauty of the natural world.
From the bestselling team that created I Am Yoga, I Am Human, I Am Love, and I Am One comes a gentle expression of the tenets of mindfulness, encouraging children to breathe, taste, smell, and be present in the here and now.
Includes a guided meditation.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34324424-i-am-peace

A lovely narrative storybook to lead younger children towards mindfulness and inner peace, thoughtfully illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds, that captures the thread of anxious thoughts as they run away. Reading the story leads the child through a mindfulness exercise, relieving stress and increasing well-being. The simplicity of the approach and gentleness of the illustrations and words have a direct effect on the reader. It encourages a sense of peace that can also be shared with others. There is a practical exercise of guided meditation at the end of the story.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/3archive/

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Discover the power of mindfulness in this companion to New York Times bestsellers I Am Human and I Am Love! Mindfulness means being fu...

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Author: Elizabeth Suneby | Illustrator: Suana Verelst | ISBN: 978-1554538164 | Publisher: Kids Can Press

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Razia dreams of getting an education, but in her small village in Afghanistan, girls haven't been allowed to attend school for many years. When a new girls' school opens in the village, a determined Razia must convince her father and oldest brother that educating her would be best for her, their family and their community. It is based on the true stories of the students of the Zabuli Education Center for Girls just outside of Kabul, founded by a generous and resourceful woman named Razia Jan, a CNN hero, who also appears in the story.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17780848-razia-s-ray-of-hope

Razia and her family live in a small village in Afghanistan where a new school for girl’s is being built. Razia is very excited about the chance to learn but it will take all her courage and confidence to convince her family they will gain much from her education as well. A hopeful story about one girl’s persistent fight for her right to education and a story that clearly shows how much contribution an educated person can bring to their communities.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/3archive/

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·  194 ratings  ·  69 reviews

Start your review of Razia's Ray of Hope: One Girl's Dream of an Education

This inspirational story unfolds as a young girl’s dream of attending school in her small village becomes a possibility. Razia learns of a school being built just for girls from her grandfather, Baba gi. He recalls when woman were allowed to be educated in his country and served the community in professional capacities. Baba gi understands Razia’s desire to learn to read and write and is faced with the difficult task of convincing Razia’s father and older brother that it is possible for her to a
This inspirational story unfolds as a young girl’s dream of attending school in her small village becomes a possibility. Razia learns of a school being built just for girls from her grandfather, Baba gi. He recalls when woman were allowed to be educated in his country and served the community in professional capacities. Baba gi understands Razia’s desire to learn to read and write and is faced with the difficult task of convincing Razia’s father and older brother that it is possible for her to attend school and maintain her chores before and after school. Based on the experiences of students attending the Zabuli Education Center for Girls near Kabul, Afghanistan this story provides a glimpse into the Afghan culture highlighting struggles involving education within families. The background information located at the back of the book features Razia Jan, who is the founder and he driving force behind of the school. Raszia Jan is also featured in the storyline and depicted within the moving illustrations. Bleak statistics concerning the status of education for children world-wide are also presented as a source of information intended to evoke discussions. Razia’s Ray of Hope: One Girl’s Dream of Education by Elizabeth Suneby and illustrated by Suana Verelst won the MEOC: Middle East Picture Book Award in 2014.
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Razia lives in a village in Afghanistan, and she is excited when she learns that a school for girls is being built there. But will the males in her family let her go? The only flaw in the story is that it's not entirely clear why her older brother Aziz, who has never been to school himself, is so against her going.

The woman who comes to the school to teach is a real person, Razia Jan, who was born in Afghanistan and raised in the United States. Information about her is provided at the end of th

Razia lives in a village in Afghanistan, and she is excited when she learns that a school for girls is being built there. But will the males in her family let her go? The only flaw in the story is that it's not entirely clear why her older brother Aziz, who has never been to school himself, is so against her going.

The woman who comes to the school to teach is a real person, Razia Jan, who was born in Afghanistan and raised in the United States. Information about her is provided at the end of the book, as well as discussion questions and classroom activities. I didn't realize until the end of the book that the title has a double meaning. Razia's Ray of Hope refers not only to the child Razia's hope of going to school but also to the name of Razia Jan's organization to educate girls in Afghanistan.

I loved this book in the CitizenKid series, most likely because it was told in the first person and therefore had more of an emotional impact. I also enjoyed the illustrations, which were part cut outs from photographs combined with artwork. Highly recommended!
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Aug 10, 2013 Julie Williams rated it really liked it

This book is based on real life experiences at the Zabuli Education Center for Girls near Kabul, Afghanistan. In this book Razia really wants to go to school. Her younger brothers go but her father and older brother are concerned that going to school will keep her from helping her family. Razia is very persistent and with the help of her grandfather, mother, and the teacher convince her father and older brother that she should be allowed to attend.
This book would be very good for students who do
This book is based on real life experiences at the Zabuli Education Center for Girls near Kabul, Afghanistan. In this book Razia really wants to go to school. Her younger brothers go but her father and older brother are concerned that going to school will keep her from helping her family. Razia is very persistent and with the help of her grandfather, mother, and the teacher convince her father and older brother that she should be allowed to attend.
This book would be very good for students who don't always appreciate the value of education. In addition, it allows them to see and understand another culture.

On the flyleaf it says that "around the world, about 69 million school-age children are not in school". I have been to Guatemala many times and although school is free many children do not attend. This book and others like it can draw attention to the problem and hopefully inspire others, like Razia Jan, to go and teach or help out in some way.
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1. Text to Self Connection: As an educator, this hits close to home. Much like our students sometimes do, I definitely take it for granted that I have an opportunity to educate all different types of children each day. While we may complain about the bureaucracy, we are extremely lucky to have or public education system. This book helped remind me how truly curious each child is, and how they will find ways to learn against all odds. Razia eaves drops on her brothers homework sessions and begs i 1. Text to Self Connection: As an educator, this hits close to home. Much like our students sometimes do, I definitely take it for granted that I have an opportunity to educate all different types of children each day. While we may complain about the bureaucracy, we are extremely lucky to have or public education system. This book helped remind me how truly curious each child is, and how they will find ways to learn against all odds. Razia eaves drops on her brothers homework sessions and begs incessantly to go to the new girls school that’s being built in her village. She sees education as the door to opportunity and won’t stop until she gets there. This was truly an inspiration (and exactly what I needed the night before I begin another week in middle school!) :)
2. This book does a nice job of helping students to understand life under the Taliban in Afghanistan without getting into complex history or details that would be meant for more mature audiences. It helps show that school is not a freedom granted to all children around the world. Information about Afghan history is weaved in when her grandpa explains that before the Taliban women had many important jobs. The mixed media art along the way also does a great job of helping students to understand what day-to-day life would look like by showing traditional rugs, clothing, food, etc.

3. Remembering – Who does Razia rely on to ask her father and brother about going to school?
Understanding – Why is going to school so important to Razia?
Applying – What examples support that Razia’s family cares for her?
Analyzing – What ideas justify the final decision to allow Razia to go to school?
Evaluating – How has Razia’s story made you think differently about your own life and schooling? Explain.
Creating – Write a letter from Razia Jan’s point of view convincing Razia’s father and brother to let her attend the girl’s school.
...more

Aug 07, 2013 MartyAnne rated it it was amazing

TITLE: Razia's Ray of Hope: One Girl's Dream of an Education
SERIES: Citizen Kid Series
AUTHOR: by Elizabeth Suneby
ILLUSTRATOR: Suana Verelst
GENRE/AUDIENCE: Kids 8-12
REVIEW: This is an awesome book. Razia lives in Afghanistan, where many girls never get to go to school. She is surprised when a school just for girls opens near her home. She has dearly wished to learn to read and write. She asks adults she trusts to talk to her family. Razia's passion for school and learning is strong. However, it
TITLE: Razia's Ray of Hope: One Girl's Dream of an Education
SERIES: Citizen Kid Series
AUTHOR: by Elizabeth Suneby
ILLUSTRATOR: Suana Verelst
GENRE/AUDIENCE: Kids 8-12
REVIEW: This is an awesome book. Razia lives in Afghanistan, where many girls never get to go to school. She is surprised when a school just for girls opens near her home. She has dearly wished to learn to read and write. She asks adults she trusts to talk to her family. Razia's passion for school and learning is strong. However, it has been a long time since girls were educated in Afghanistan. Will Razia get to go?

ILLUSTRATIONS: These are fabulous mixes of collage, drawing, fabric rendering, so much of the layers of pattern of traditional clothing and other objects in this region. It makes the story even more realistic.

TAGS: citizenkid-series, social-awareness, cultural-diversity, family-stories,
PERMALINK: http://martysreads.blogspot.com/2013/...
READALIKES: See List at http://www.citizenkidcentral.com/Read...
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ABOUT THIS REVIEWER: I am a book lover and aspiring librarian. My passion is in reader's advisory-- finding a reader the right book to be read next! This means I read very widely. My Blog on Blogger had over 700 hits in July.
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Oct 23, 2013 Suzanne rated it really liked it

Elizabeth Suneby's story of the Zabuli Education Center for Girls is a great example of children's literature sharing cultural diversity. Razia's dream to attend school and the various obstacles she must overcome are very realistic for girls living in Afghanistan. There are customs and traditions, pressure by groups like the Taliban, financial issues, and other problems that girls in the U.S. don't have to face. The reactions of Razia's family to her request to attend school are very normal for Elizabeth Suneby's story of the Zabuli Education Center for Girls is a great example of children's literature sharing cultural diversity. Razia's dream to attend school and the various obstacles she must overcome are very realistic for girls living in Afghanistan. There are customs and traditions, pressure by groups like the Taliban, financial issues, and other problems that girls in the U.S. don't have to face. The reactions of Razia's family to her request to attend school are very normal for families living in her village - they are not extreme or fanatical. The school's founder understands the objections and answers them truthfully and respectfully in a way that the family can accept.
I especially like the activities at the end of the story that can help a class of American students see what the odds are for a girl like Razia to receive an education. The "Typical School Day" sheets provided at www.citizenkidcentral.com help students compare their school day here in the U.S. to a day for students in Razia's school. These comparisons make it much easier to grasp what a different lifestyle children in Afghanistan have from American children. This would be a good book to combine with research projects on education activists like Mulala Yousafzai and Razia Jan.

I read an e-book provided by the publisher through NetGalley.
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Jan 16, 2014 Rachel rated it it was amazing

Noble in intention and beautiful in its illustrations, this tale is both a reminder of a dark reality, and a sliver of hope to its future.
Razia is a determined girl who wants to go to school. However, living where she does, does not guarantee that she will be allowed to. So it is up to her to convince her family. The book is very careful not to criticize those who oppose her going, instead it focuses on the benefits she could provide the family by having an education. Still, this is a sensitive
Noble in intention and beautiful in its illustrations, this tale is both a reminder of a dark reality, and a sliver of hope to its future.
Razia is a determined girl who wants to go to school. However, living where she does, does not guarantee that she will be allowed to. So it is up to her to convince her family. The book is very careful not to criticize those who oppose her going, instead it focuses on the benefits she could provide the family by having an education. Still, this is a sensitive topic, which the the author does her best to explain, even including classroom activities in the back to get children involved in the discussion.

Each image is made from mixed media; photos, drawings, and bright textures that pop right off the page, give an optimistic look to a hopeful story.

Razia is one of the lucky ones, and we delight in her victory, however there are many others who are not as fortunate, and a book like this is an excellent tool to help children here learn about their plight.
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Aug 18, 2013 Chechoui rated it it was amazing

This is a wonderful children's book that all children should read! Boys, girls - everyone! It tells the story of a girl in Afghanistan who wants to go to the new girls school built in her village. She faces resistant from her family who feel a girl's place is in the hone, but eventually they are persuaded.
This book is filled with rich collage illustrations. At the end there is a glossary of Dari terms used, as well as curriculum for teachers using this book in class. It also includes statistics
This is a wonderful children's book that all children should read! Boys, girls - everyone! It tells the story of a girl in Afghanistan who wants to go to the new girls school built in her village. She faces resistant from her family who feel a girl's place is in the hone, but eventually they are persuaded.
This book is filled with rich collage illustrations. At the end there is a glossary of Dari terms used, as well as curriculum for teachers using this book in class. It also includes statistics about the lack of girls' education worldwide. It further shares the real life story this book is based on, which makes it all the more powerful.

This book teaches students about Afghan culture, as well as the resistance girls face to learn to read, write and seek an education. It can lead to a discussion about the importance of education as well as gender role expectations. I think all teachers should read this to their students!

Ages 5+

Review copy provided by NetGalley and publisher.
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In Razia's village, there is no school for girls. But Razia dreams of being a teacher and of learning to read and write. One day, she learns that her village is opening up a school for her and now it is her mission to talk her family into letting her go. This book is quite eye-opening to other cultures. Especially with what is happening with the Taliban in Afghanistan, it is valuable information to learn about.
In Razia's village, there is no school for girls. But Razia dreams of being a teacher and of learning to read and write. One day, she learns that her village is opening up a school for her and now it is her mission to talk her family into letting her go. This book is quite eye-opening to other cultures. Especially with what is happening with the Taliban in Afghanistan, it is valuable information to learn about.
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Dec 13, 2017 Kirin rated it it was ok

I usually love books about girls, and education and hope, but for some reason, I didn't love this book.  I really like the pictures with their mixed media feel and textures, but I found small things annoying in the book, that based on other online reviews really put me in the tiny minority.  Most people seem to drool over this 32 page AR 4.1 picture book, I, however, think there are a lot of inspiring books about girls in Afghanistan dreaming of an education that one needs to do something differ I usually love books about girls, and education and hope, but for some reason, I didn't love this book.  I really like the pictures with their mixed media feel and textures, but I found small things annoying in the book, that based on other online reviews really put me in the tiny minority.  Most people seem to drool over this 32 page AR 4.1 picture book, I, however, think there are a lot of inspiring books about girls in Afghanistan dreaming of an education that one needs to do something different, and do it well to win me over.
So the basic premise, in this text heavy, tiny font, book, is that Razia learns they are building a new school close to her home in Afghanistan for girls, and wants to go.  Her grandfather also wants her to go, but one of her older brothers, Aziz, won't allow it, so she isn't allowed to go.  No historical lead up explaining why her grandfather talks about days when women were educated, and now it is a rarity.  No summation on the Taliban or the 17 years of war that the grandfather mentions.  So, unless the reader knows some background on Afghanistan, the story may not resonate with them or provide needed context for connection and appreciation.  Even the afterward, about the real founder of the school, offers very little context.  The brother's decision is final until one day he falls ill and can't read the medication directions, and Razia can, eventually he relents and she is allowed to go. The story hints that the rocks around the school are from the quarry he works at so he now feels confident she will be safe, and that his initial refusal was a concern for safety.  They hug and seem loving, and once school starts Razia has to learn as much as she can to be able to go home and teach Aziz and her mom.

I like that when she initially is told no, she doesn't sit and assume a helpless manner, but rather goes to the school and meets the founder herself.  I find it odd, and irksome that the head of the school is also named Razia and it isn't even noted. I get that is her real name, but why have the two main characters in a book have the same name and then not even acknowledge it? I didn't get why the little girl couldn't have a different name, seems distracting to me, and imply that every girl has the same name in Afghanistan.  I also didn't get the hierarchy. The grandfather wants her to go, the father and uncles have legit concerns of where she is needed in helping the family farm and orchard, but why did the brother's opinion trump them all? There is no mention of Islam, but they wear hijabs and burkas, so I think the stereotype is implied.  And that was another thing, they made it seem like she would be corrupted if she went out alone or without the burka on, but then Aziz shakes the headmistress's hand, as if that isn't against religious and custom norms. I felt that the kindness of the brother at the end was disjointed too, a bit too forced. The grandpa seemed kind, but the rest of the family seemed cold and rigid and not overtly concerned with Razia's well being and growth.  Yes, they did have a jerga, to discuss and consider it, but I felt like Razia never had a voice, and while education is important, having a voice is too.  More has to change in society and in literature to give me real hope, and this book sadly fell short.
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Apr 24, 2014 Maureen rated it really liked it

The format of this book is a picture book, but subject matter is not written for young children. Razia is a young girl living in Afghanistan, a country that has not allowed girls to get an education. As things begin to change and a school is built for girls, it is her dream to attend the school and get an education. Razia has secretly been learning to read and write by observing the studies of two of her brothers. Now that a school for girls is being built, she is determined to go. She enlists t The format of this book is a picture book, but subject matter is not written for young children. Razia is a young girl living in Afghanistan, a country that has not allowed girls to get an education. As things begin to change and a school is built for girls, it is her dream to attend the school and get an education. Razia has secretly been learning to read and write by observing the studies of two of her brothers. Now that a school for girls is being built, she is determined to go. She enlists the help of her grandfather, her mother, and even the woman who runs the school, but ultimately the decision will be determined by a family meeting of the elder men of her family - her father, brothers, uncles, and grandfather. Her oldest brother is against it, but Razia is finally able to convince him to change his mind.
This is a great story to let children know the value of education and that it is not something that is available to every child in the world. The patriarcial views of another culture are shown in a way that children can understand. Through technology the world is becoming a smaller place and children will need to better understand and empathize with the viewpoints of other cultures.

In addition to being a good story, this book is also a great educational tool. The summary on the book jacket and information at the end of the book, including the Education for Everyone and Classroom Activities, give teachers additional talking points and activities to use along with this book. A small glossary of Dari words will help student understand any unfamiliar words from Afghanistan used within the text. A photograph on page 30 allows students to see that while this story is fictional, the events it describes are real.

The muted colors in the illustrations put the reader in the mind frame of a dry, desert-like landscape like what would be found in Afghanistan. Most of the pictures are hand drawn with what looks like colored pencils, but several pages intermix photographs of colorful pillows, rugs, and blankets like those that would be seen in Afghanistan in a home. It is an interesting mix of fact and fiction that will keep drawing the reader back to look at the pictures anew.
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Plot: Razia's Ray of Hope: One Girl's Dream of an Education is a wonderful, multicultural book for all ages. This is a story about a young girl, Razia, who just wants to get an education and go to school. It depicts the life of a young Middle Eastern girl who is under the male elders in her family. She needs permission from the men to be able to go to school and be able to learn. All throughout the book she tells of her longing to go to school but while her grandfather is in favor of her going, Plot: Razia's Ray of Hope: One Girl's Dream of an Education is a wonderful, multicultural book for all ages. This is a story about a young girl, Razia, who just wants to get an education and go to school. It depicts the life of a young Middle Eastern girl who is under the male elders in her family. She needs permission from the men to be able to go to school and be able to learn. All throughout the book she tells of her longing to go to school but while her grandfather is in favor of her going, her brother is not. He believes she needs to be around the house helping out and doing her chores. Eventually Razia's brother gives in and tells her she is allowed to go to school.
Literary Merit: This picture book takes a look at a different culture other than the typical American one. The pictures are vivid and show the emotion of everyone in the story. The author uses a great balance of words and pictures. This story introduces the reader to different words in the language of Razia's culture. The author does a wonderful job in making it very easy for the reader to know what the words mean as well. This book has a very happy ending.

Genre Considerations: This is a picture book with many multicultural references. This book displays many acts of thankfulness from the main character. Razia is thankful for the men in her life who have made her education possible. This book is realistic in the sense that this very situation happens all the time in the middle east. It opens our eyes to the other cultures around us.

Reader Response/Classroom Considerations: I loved reading this book because it helped me to learn about other cultures. I never knew any of the words used in the story so it definitely open my eyes. I used this book as one of my text sets for the topic of being thankful because it shows how thankful one girl is for something we take for granted everyday.

I would definitely use this book for my classroom because it is important to incorporate every culture into the classroom. Kids need to be aware of every culture and the countries around them. Teaching them to be thankful is an important aspect and helps them in everyday life.
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Oct 14, 2015 Maggie Hahn rated it it was amazing

Razia, a young girl living in Afghanistan, is ecstatic when she hears the news of a new school for girls is being built in her town! She dreams of learning to read and write like her brothers do. Razia goes to her grandfather to try and convince him to talk to her parents about letting her attend this new school. However, her oldest brothers and parents finally discuss letting her attend, but it doesn't turn out how Razia wishes. Razia must find a way to convince her family to let her attend the Razia, a young girl living in Afghanistan, is ecstatic when she hears the news of a new school for girls is being built in her town! She dreams of learning to read and write like her brothers do. Razia goes to her grandfather to try and convince him to talk to her parents about letting her attend this new school. However, her oldest brothers and parents finally discuss letting her attend, but it doesn't turn out how Razia wishes. Razia must find a way to convince her family to let her attend the new school! This book was inspirational. It shows how young children can be excited for education, and will stop at nothing until they receive it! I really enjoyed this book because it emphasized the importance of education. Sometimes, living in America, it is easy to forget how many rights that all people have here, and other places it is not the same. It is important to educate children on other cultures around the world for them to have a better understanding of diversity and life outside of the United States. The illustrations in this book were very realistic and appealing to the eye. The use of colors really brought out certain aspects of the people and objects drawn in this book. On page 12 of this book, Razia's grandfather, or Baba Gi, says to the family, "It is time to give our daughters and granddaughters in Deh'Subz the chance to read and write." This quote shows the cultural differences between America and Afghanistan. This quote is one of many that can lead to a discussion on cultures around the world and their differences and similarities to America. There are many things that can connect to the classroom in this book. First, I could have my students compare and contrast girls in Afghanistan and America. Another thing that I could do is use the vocabulary words in Dari to explain differences in the Afghan culture. Another connection to the classroom would be to have my students research and think of ways to help children all over the world get an education. ...more

Jan 30, 2017 Colleen Smith rated it really liked it

I found Razia’s Ray of Hope: One Girl’s Dream of Education by Elizabeth Suneby, illustrated by Suana Verelst on the Middle East Outreach Councils website. This book has earned the Jane Addams Children book Award.
This is a book about a girl named Razia. There was a school that was being built in her village. It would be a school for girls. Her brothers went to a boy’s school in the next village over. One night. Razia was sitting with her brother while they worked on homework and she asked for a I found Razia’s Ray of Hope: One Girl’s Dream of Education by Elizabeth Suneby, illustrated by Suana Verelst on the Middle East Outreach Councils website. This book has earned the Jane Addams Children book Award.
This is a book about a girl named Razia. There was a school that was being built in her village. It would be a school for girls. Her brothers went to a boy’s school in the next village over. One night. Razia was sitting with her brother while they worked on homework and she asked for a piece of paper. Her brother asked why she wanted it because she did not have homework to complete. She had said never mind to her brother but she had secretly learned the Dari alphabet and knew how to write her name. Her Baba, gi, held a meeting with the men in the family and suggested the Razia go to school because before all the war happened in Afghanistan women were allowed to be educated. The men in her family ended the conversation by saying that Razia was needed at home. Razia went to the school after her chores and met a lady named Razia Jan. Razia Jan came to the house to talk with Baba Gi and Razia’s parents. She told them that the school would be free and teach the girls many important subjects. Razia’s parents seemed impressed with all that the school had to offer. However the person that needed convincing was Razia’s older brother Aziz. Aziz says that it’s okay for Raiza to go to school after he finds out that there will be a wall around the school to keep the girls safe. The story ends with Razia’s first day at Zabuli Education Center and her saying that she wants to be a teacher.
In the back of the book it has a little story about the real Razia Jan and glossary for the Dari words in the book. This story could appeal to students in grades third through sixth. It is also based on a true story of a girl from Deh’ Subz.
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This diversity picture book which is based on a true story accurately depicts culture in Afghanistan by telling the story of Razia, a young girl who dreams of an education in a country where it is difficult for females to do so. I found this story very moving, and empowering to young girls. In the classroom, this book would be a great tool to teach students appreciate the value of education, and it allows them to see and understand another culture. I found this quote from the story very powerful This diversity picture book which is based on a true story accurately depicts culture in Afghanistan by telling the story of Razia, a young girl who dreams of an education in a country where it is difficult for females to do so. I found this story very moving, and empowering to young girls. In the classroom, this book would be a great tool to teach students appreciate the value of education, and it allows them to see and understand another culture. I found this quote from the story very powerful, “I ask you for your tolerance, if not support, for Razia’s education. If men are the backbone of Afghanistan, then Women are the eyes of our country. Without an education we will all be blind.” There is also a foundation found at www.raziasrayofhope.org that lets individuals know of different ways to help and donate to the foundation, and has information about Afghanistan, and gives you the opportunity to sponsor a girl in Afghanistan so that she can have an education.
The writing in this book is high quality. The author is very descriptive in the setting and details. Razia describes the school in such great detail, readers could imagine it themselves. For example when Razia is describing the new school…”At the beginning of March, the construction crew covered the bricks with white stucco that made the new school shine in the sunlight. They painted the door red, as bright as the flames of the tandoor.” Suneby also does an excellent job at incorporating words into the text that are known in Afghanistan, but readers from other countries may not be familiar. By doing this, readers are more inclined to look up these words or items, and learn more about a different culture. Also, in the back of the book are some translations of Dari words that arise in the story; this is a very helpful educational tool.

Review by Hannah McVey
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Feb 12, 2018 Scout Collins rated it really liked it

Was trying to find good books on education for kids when I found this one.
Razia's Ray of Hope tells the story of Razia, a young girl in Afghanistan who wants to go to school - and there is an opportunity because there is a new school for girls being built. The story follows Razia as she faces challenges of not being able to attend school and takes her education into her own hands.

This story ties in cultural references to Afghanistan (unfortunately some of which might make the story harder for yo
Was trying to find good books on education for kids when I found this one.
Razia's Ray of Hope tells the story of Razia, a young girl in Afghanistan who wants to go to school - and there is an opportunity because there is a new school for girls being built. The story follows Razia as she faces challenges of not being able to attend school and takes her education into her own hands.

This story ties in cultural references to Afghanistan (unfortunately some of which might make the story harder for younger kids to understand).

One thing I did not love about this book was the illustrations; the cover looks depressing and unappealing, which made me remove 0.5 - 1 stars. The art style is unique but there was something I didn't like about it.

I appreciated the two pages at the back, where the author explains the book was based on a true story, gives discussion questions and activities and ideas on how to use the knowledge you gained from reading the book.

Overall it was a good story, with a good message, and it can reach kids - older kids. I would say 7 or 8 year olds would be the youngest I would read this book to. I was hoping to find a book suitable for younger kids too, so I will have to keep looking. I am using kids' books on education for a project, and this one met the criteria I was looking for so it will be one of the books I use!

Would recommend to...
Kids who want to learn about the world, other countries, and education
Parents/teachers/adults who are looking for a good book to teach kids about why education (especially for girls) is so important
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Mar 03, 2018 Tatiana rated it really liked it

Pair with Nasreen's Secret School: A True Story from Afghanistan and For the Right to Learn: Malala Yousafzai's Story.
As a modern, American educator, 69+ million school-age children worldwide without access or denied access to an education is unfathomable. Yet it is the reality for many in sub-Saharan Africa and Southern Asia; it is the reality for millions for girls like Razia, the endearing protagonist of this picture book, a young girl living in Afghanistan who yearns for instruction in read
Pair with Nasreen's Secret School: A True Story from Afghanistan and For the Right to Learn: Malala Yousafzai's Story.
As a modern, American educator, 69+ million school-age children worldwide without access or denied access to an education is unfathomable. Yet it is the reality for many in sub-Saharan Africa and Southern Asia; it is the reality for millions for girls like Razia, the endearing protagonist of this picture book, a young girl living in Afghanistan who yearns for instruction in reading and writing at the new girls' school opening in her village.

Razia must beg her elders to attend school because her illiterate brothers were raised under occupation and don't see the need for girls to be educated. That Razia must still promise to do chores before and after school as a "condition" for her right to school is truly foreign. Most of the kids I teach don't want to be at school and don't lift a finger at home, either.

Razia's Ray of Hope: One Girl's Dream of an Education is based on the real Razia Jan, who founded a girls' school in Afghanistan. Girls' education is an issue close to my heart, and so I appreciate the lesson plan ideas included at the end of this book. I am always looking for ways to illustrate to my students the opportunities they have, as well as open their eyes to how they can reach out and become citizens of the world.
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Jun 10, 2014 Billie Crane rated it really liked it

Set in Afghanistan, Razia dreams of an education and learning to read and write like her brothers but is not allowed because she is girl. Then she learns that a school for girls is being built no far from her home. She asks her grandfather if he will talk to her father about letting her go to the school. She anxiously watches the construction in hopes that she will soon be able to attend. Until one night she overhears her father, oldest brother, and uncles discussing how important it is for wome Set in Afghanistan, Razia dreams of an education and learning to read and write like her brothers but is not allowed because she is girl. Then she learns that a school for girls is being built no far from her home. She asks her grandfather if he will talk to her father about letting her go to the school. She anxiously watches the construction in hopes that she will soon be able to attend. Until one night she overhears her father, oldest brother, and uncles discussing how important it is for women to be at home to help around the house and in the fields and not in schools. Razia is determined to go to school and even goes to registration to ask one of the teachers to help convince her family. Her teacher is successful at convincing her father by sharing with him all that the school will teach the girls and that's free! The last few pages share with the reader that this story is based on a true story of a woman who was passionate about bringing opportunities to women and girls in Afghanistan. She actually left the US in 2008 to open the Zabuli Education Center for Girls in Kabul. This book also has a page of classroom activities to accompany the text. I really enjoyed this story and the message it sends about the importance of education and that there are many young people in the world who do not have access to education. The illustrations were also very unique in that the faces of the characters were drawn in pencil while the rest of the illustration was mixed media. It was a lovely book! ...more

Young Razia dreams of going to school one day, but in her small village in Kabuhl, Afghanistan, girls have not been allowed to go to school since the days of September 11th. So young Razia spends day and night listening and eavesdropping on her brothers to get what little education she can, hoping to learn something. One day a school for girls opens in her village (founded by Razia Jan, who grew up in Afghanistan and CNN's 2012 Honoree for her work in Kahbul). Excited and nervous, young Razia is Young Razia dreams of going to school one day, but in her small village in Kabuhl, Afghanistan, girls have not been allowed to go to school since the days of September 11th. So young Razia spends day and night listening and eavesdropping on her brothers to get what little education she can, hoping to learn something. One day a school for girls opens in her village (founded by Razia Jan, who grew up in Afghanistan and CNN's 2012 Honoree for her work in Kahbul). Excited and nervous, young Razia is determined to go to this school made for girls just like her.
Filled with cultural elements, like the Dori language, this memoir would be the perfect tool for any cultural-awareness discussion. Whether piloting open dialogues about social justice, evaluating different cultures around the world, or analyzing the cause and effect of 9-11, this story will always receive five stars in my book. Be prepared. This story is a tear-jerker but a good one. Reading this narrative made me thankful - one, for education; and two, that there are people out there advocating for young girls like Razia.

Thank you Elizabeth Suneby for recording this story and making it available for students everywhere, and thank you Razia Jan for giving up the comforts of the American lifestyle to serve these young deserving children.

This books is part of a brand of books called CitizenKids books, which are specifically chosen for their global justice messages.
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Jan 29, 2014 Trish rated it really liked it

Razia dreams of going to school like her two of her brothers, so when she learns that a girls' school is being built nearby, she is filled with hope. Her oldest brother doesn't think she needs to be educated until he becomes ill, needs medicine and can't read the directions. When Razia figures them out, he agrees to allow her to attend school.
Although probably not a book most children will pick up on their own, it is beautiful and gives a glimpse into a world few Americans are familiar with. Its Razia dreams of going to school like her two of her brothers, so when she learns that a girls' school is being built nearby, she is filled with hope. Her oldest brother doesn't think she needs to be educated until he becomes ill, needs medicine and can't read the directions. When Razia figures them out, he agrees to allow her to attend school.
Although probably not a book most children will pick up on their own, it is beautiful and gives a glimpse into a world few Americans are familiar with. Its message is to promote education for girls in Afghanistan and there is a note at the back about the real teacher/organizer in the book, Razia Jan and the background on the location.
The text is lengthy for a picture book and would be best suited for school-age children. The mixed-media illustrations use collage for the backgrounds and clothing and then line drawings for the faces so emotions are clearly and beaurifully rendered.
This could also be included in a class/program on collage or mixed-media art. ...more

Razia's Ray of Hope is a book dedication to education. There is a new school being built for girls and Razia is determined to learn to read and write. Although her family was against her education she was able to persuade them with her persistent ability. The illustrations in this book provide a colorful collage. Some of the items on each page even have a three dimensional aspect to them. The author portrays a young girl and her determination to go to school very effectively. The author also doe Razia's Ray of Hope is a book dedication to education. There is a new school being built for girls and Razia is determined to learn to read and write. Although her family was against her education she was able to persuade them with her persistent ability. The illustrations in this book provide a colorful collage. Some of the items on each page even have a three dimensional aspect to them. The author portrays a young girl and her determination to go to school very effectively. The author also does a great job at not criticizing or offending anybody in this book such as Razia's family members against her education. This book will teach children the importance of education. It was also let them reflect on their own lives and how it would be if some of their family members were not educated and couldn't read or write. Not having an education would be like living in a parallel universe for us who have come accustomed to learning. Children will also learn to become more appreciative of the lives they have and the opportunities this country offers them. ...more

Nov 23, 2013 Heidi rated it really liked it

Based on the a school for girls in Afghanistan, this title shows that tenacity and dreams can overcome many obstacles. Razia longs to attend school just like her brothers but girls aren't allowed to get an education due to Taliban regulations. She has taught herself to read and wants the opportunity to better herself through classroom learning. The collage illustrations include muted colors for everyone other than Razia, whose orange coat and turquoise scarf drawn attention to her on each two-pa Based on the a school for girls in Afghanistan, this title shows that tenacity and dreams can overcome many obstacles. Razia longs to attend school just like her brothers but girls aren't allowed to get an education due to Taliban regulations. She has taught herself to read and wants the opportunity to better herself through classroom learning. The collage illustrations include muted colors for everyone other than Razia, whose orange coat and turquoise scarf drawn attention to her on each two-page spread. A wonderful story of perseverance and triumph. Background information about the disparity in formal education around the world, a brief biography on the real Razia Jan, whom the story's protangonist is fashioned after, a glossary of Dari words, and classroom activities to accompany the story are included. A great lead-in story to discussions about education, sexual equality, and comparisons of lifestyles from one culture to another. ...more

May 01, 2017 Roger Clarke rated it it was amazing

This was a good read that showcases the struggles that girls around the world face, specifically in countries that have traditional patriarchal societal structures. The illustrations fit very well with the setting and theme to really give the reader a sense that they are seeing things through the eyes of the main character. Razia, our protagonist, dreams only of going to school and getting a education. She watches her brothers go to school and know that there was once a time before the Taliban w This was a good read that showcases the struggles that girls around the world face, specifically in countries that have traditional patriarchal societal structures. The illustrations fit very well with the setting and theme to really give the reader a sense that they are seeing things through the eyes of the main character. Razia, our protagonist, dreams only of going to school and getting a education. She watches her brothers go to school and know that there was once a time before the Taliban where she could have gone to school as well. The story shows her pushing against what is now accepted as the norm in Afghanistan and how little freedoms women and girls are offered in their current society. I would recommend this for students in Western society to read as it will give them knowledge of other parts of the world where society is greatly different from ours and it also opens up discussion about social justice on a global scale with what are basic human rights for all. ...more

Oct 08, 2013 Holly Mueller rated it really liked it

This is a book based on a true story. Razia represents the experiences of girls in Afghanistan who are prevented from going to school by the Taliban. The real Razia was born in Afghanistan and moved to the U.S. as a young woman. In 2007, she founded Razia's Ray of Hope Foundation, hoping to provide Afghanistan girls opportunities through education. She was honored by CNN as one of their Top 10 Heroes of 2012. Our class just read about Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani teenager who was shot by the Ta This is a book based on a true story. Razia represents the experiences of girls in Afghanistan who are prevented from going to school by the Taliban. The real Razia was born in Afghanistan and moved to the U.S. as a young woman. In 2007, she founded Razia's Ray of Hope Foundation, hoping to provide Afghanistan girls opportunities through education. She was honored by CNN as one of their Top 10 Heroes of 2012. Our class just read about Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani teenager who was shot by the Taliban last year for advocating girls' rights to go to school, in Scope Magazine. She will be interviewed by Diane Sawyer this week on 20/20 because more threats have risen against her since being named a contender for the Nobel Peace Prize. This book will be a good addition to our unit on crusaders/heroes who stand up for what is right. ...more

Apr 26, 2014 Kelly rated it really liked it

This book is on the USBBY's 2014 Outstanding International Book list. It is a beautiful book with mixed media collages which combine photos, fabric, torn paper, drawings, stamps, etc. It is the story of a girl from Afghanistan, who with the help of her grandfather (Baba gi), convinces her father, mother and brothers that she should attend a newly built school for girls in her village. A glossary and classroom activities are included in the back of the book. It is part of the series of books call This book is on the USBBY's 2014 Outstanding International Book list. It is a beautiful book with mixed media collages which combine photos, fabric, torn paper, drawings, stamps, etc. It is the story of a girl from Afghanistan, who with the help of her grandfather (Baba gi), convinces her father, mother and brothers that she should attend a newly built school for girls in her village. A glossary and classroom activities are included in the back of the book. It is part of the series of books called Citizen Kid to inform children about the world and inspire them to be better global citizens.
http://www.raziasrayofhope.org/
This is a great resource to go with the book and has a gallery of photos and curriculum.
...more

Feb 17, 2014 Nicole rated it really liked it

Razia's Ray of Hope: One Girl's Dream of an Education by Elizabeth Suneby, illustrated by Suana Verelst
Citizen Kid (Kids Can Press), 2013
Multicultural Literature/Realistic Fiction
32 pages
Recommended for grades 3-5
A story of a young Afghanistan girl desperately wanting the chance at an education of her own. This isn't the first story I've read this year about a child's dream of an education, but this one is nice for younger readers, while retaining the option of stretching upwards into older grad
Razia's Ray of Hope: One Girl's Dream of an Education by Elizabeth Suneby, illustrated by Suana Verelst
Citizen Kid (Kids Can Press), 2013
Multicultural Literature/Realistic Fiction
32 pages
Recommended for grades 3-5
A story of a young Afghanistan girl desperately wanting the chance at an education of her own. This isn't the first story I've read this year about a child's dream of an education, but this one is nice for younger readers, while retaining the option of stretching upwards into older grade levels.
The illustrations are lovely, part photograph collage and part drawing.
Included in this text are some excellent teaching resources and activities.
...more

Sep 08, 2014 Linda rated it really liked it

Based on the stories of many girls around the world, this one highlights a young girl from Afghanistan whose village is building a school for girls. She already knows how to read a little because she listens to two of her brothers when they do homework. But it’s time for registration and the family has a meeting to discuss whether she might attend. There are some objections, but the final say is a “no” from her older brother. In a brief, and telling moment, he finally relents. I don’t want to gi Based on the stories of many girls around the world, this one highlights a young girl from Afghanistan whose village is building a school for girls. She already knows how to read a little because she listens to two of her brothers when they do homework. But it’s time for registration and the family has a meeting to discuss whether she might attend. There are some objections, but the final say is a “no” from her older brother. In a brief, and telling moment, he finally relents. I don’t want to give away the reason, but it has to do with reading! The pictures highlight the young girl, showing the background of different situations. ...more

Jan 04, 2017 Heidi Pepin rated it it was amazing

My 7 year old daughter and I read this at bedtime tonight and it really put things into a different perspective for each of us - how lucky and privileged we are to live in a place where education is free and available to all and in a culture where women are (mostly) thought to be equals.
The story provoked a lot of discussion about equality, geography, and how things have changed over time as it relates to women in education. Coming back from winter holiday and hearing her complain about having t
My 7 year old daughter and I read this at bedtime tonight and it really put things into a different perspective for each of us - how lucky and privileged we are to live in a place where education is free and available to all and in a culture where women are (mostly) thought to be equals.
The story provoked a lot of discussion about equality, geography, and how things have changed over time as it relates to women in education. Coming back from winter holiday and hearing her complain about having to get up early and go to school, I think this book added a little perspective.

I would recommend this book to others, particularly those around the age of 6-8.
...more

Collage art technique with swatches of material. Clippings of photographs and lifelike drawings of figures - Razia and her relatives. Drawings of pale figures in black-and-white pencil with a little pink blush for cheeks.
There is a glossary of Dari words at the end. There are fun exercises for schoolgirls to think about the experience of girls in Afghanistan at the end.
This is a CitizenKid(Tm) book. I'm not sure that promoting single-sex junior schools makes children better "global citizens". Collage art technique with swatches of material. Clippings of photographs and lifelike drawings of figures - Razia and her relatives. Drawings of pale figures in black-and-white pencil with a little pink blush for cheeks.
There is a glossary of Dari words at the end. There are fun exercises for schoolgirls to think about the experience of girls in Afghanistan at the end.
This is a CitizenKid(Tm) book. I'm not sure that promoting single-sex junior schools makes children better "global citizens". ...more

Feb 07, 2014 Robin rated it liked it

The illustrations for this book are just perfect, evoking the faces of real people and bringing home the message that Razia is a representative of so many real girls in real villages all across Afghanistan. The text is a little ploddy and pedantic, which sometimes happens when the author has an informational mission rather than a literary one. That's okay, though. I am still glad to have read it and think it would make a great read-together for an upper elementary class learning about conditions The illustrations for this book are just perfect, evoking the faces of real people and bringing home the message that Razia is a representative of so many real girls in real villages all across Afghanistan. The text is a little ploddy and pedantic, which sometimes happens when the author has an informational mission rather than a literary one. That's okay, though. I am still glad to have read it and think it would make a great read-together for an upper elementary class learning about conditions for kids around the world. ...more

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Razia's Ray of Hope book. Read 69 reviews from the world's largest community for readers. Razia dreams of getting an education, but in her small village ...

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Author: James Rumford | Illustrator: James Rumford  | ISBN: 978-0547243078 | Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers

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It is the first day of school in Chad, Africa. Children are filling the road.
"Will they give us a notebook?" Thomas asks.
"Will they give us a pencil?"
"Will I learn to read?"
But when he and the other children arrive at the schoolyard, they find no classroom, no desks. Just a teacher. "We will build our school," she says. "This is our first lesson."
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9199871-rain-school

Captures the excitement of children starting school for the first time and wondering what it will be like. In this particular setting in Chad, the children and the teachers create a temporary school building each year which lasts for the nine months between the long rains. The message is one of collaboration, problem solving and hope with enthusiastic valuing of an education at its core.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/3archive/

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Rain School book. Read 146 reviews from the world's largest community for readers. It is the first day of school in Chad, Africa. Children are filling th...

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Author: Christy Jordan-Fenton and Margaret Pokiak-Fenton Jury| Illustrator: Gabrielle Grimard | ISBN: 978-1554514908 | Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers

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Bestselling memoir Fatty Legs for younger readers. Olemaun is eight and knows a lot of things. But she does not know how to read. Ignoring her father’s warnings, she travels far from her Arctic home to the outsiders’ school to learn. The nuns at the school call her Margaret. They cut off her long hair and force her to do menial chores, but she remains undaunted. Her tenacity draws the attention of a black-cloaked nun who tries to break her spirit at every turn. But the young girl is more determined than ever to learn how to read. Based on the true story of Margaret Pokiak-Fenton, and complemented by stunning illustrations, When I Was Eight makes the bestselling Fatty Legs accessible to younger readers. Now they, too, can meet this remarkable girl who reminds us what power we hold when we can read.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16276859-when-i-was-eight

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/3archive/

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This copy kindly provided by NetGalley on behalf of the publisher

Too much going on in this one for my son, he's 4.5yo, better suited to children a bit older I think.

This girl has big dreams and in order to achieve them she needs to leave her family & go to school in a different community to her own. Here she is subjected to horrible conditions & treatment, before she teaches herself to read.

There are references to Alice in Wonderland that may not make sense to a child that doesn't know the...more

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This copy kindly provided by NetGalley on behalf of the publisher Too much going on in this one for my son, he's 4.5yo, better suited to children a bit older I think. This girl has big dreams and in order to achieve them she needs to leave her family & go to school in a different community to her own.

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Author: Malala Yousafzai | ISBN: 9781526361592 | Publisher: Hachette Childrens Group

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I come from a country that was created at midnight. When I almost died it was just after midday.

When the Taliban took control of the Swat Valley in Pakistan, one girl spoke out. Malala Yousafzai refused to be silenced and fought for her right to an education.

On Tuesday, October 9, 2012, when she was fifteen, she almost paid the ultimate price. She was shot in the head at point-blank range while riding the bus home from school, and few expected her to survive.

Instead, Malala's miraculous recovery has taken her on an extraordinary journey from a remote valley in northern Pakistan to the halls of the United Nations in New York. At sixteen she became a global symbol of peaceful protest and the youngest nominee ever for the Nobel Peace Prize.

I Am Malala is the remarkable tale of a family uprooted by global terrorism; of the fight for girls' education; of a father who, himself a school owner, championed and encouraged his daughter to write and attend school; and of brave parents who have a fierce love for their daughter in a society that prizes sons.

I Am Malala will make you believe in the power of one person's voice to inspire change in the world.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/41002816-malala

Malala’s autobiography is immediately accessible to all ages, as it is written in an engaging style. Malala connects the reader to her life and her loving family before the shooting. She captures the wide reach of trauma that the incident caused, as well as her desire to live beyond her attack. The book is a good choice to address SDG 5, as it illustrates powerfully that the fight remains relevant and necessary for realising basic human rights for women and girls to have equal access to education, and the consequent access to opportunities for economic, social and political development. Malala’s story illustrates why the fight to ensure the eradication of harmful practices targeted at women is crucial to ending gender-based discrimination prevalent in many countries around the world.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/sdgbookclub-5archive/

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A memoir by the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize I come from a country that was created at midnight. When I almost died it wa...

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Author and illustrator: Owen O’Doherty | ISBN: 9781788490542 | Publisher: O’Brien Press

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Bright sparks – amazing discoveries, inventions and designs by women

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Bright sparks – amazing discoveries, inventions and designs by women

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An introduction to fifty extraordinary discoveries, inventions and designs by inspirational women.
From windscreen wipers to the life raft; coffee filters to emergency flares; Apollo Mission software to Monopoly: women have discovered, invented and designed some of the most important things we all take for granted, but many of their names are unknown.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42285865-bright-sparks

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/sdgbookclub-5archive/

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Bright Sparks: Amazing Discoveries, Inventions and Designs by Women

An introduction to fifty extraordinary discoveries, inventions and designs by inspirational women
From windscreen wipers to the life raft; coffee filters to emergency flares; Apollo Mission software to Monopoly: women have discovered, invented and designed some of the most important things we all take for granted, but many of their names are unknown.

Meet incredible inventor
An introduction to fifty extraordinary discoveries, inventions and designs by inspirational women
From windscreen wipers to the life raft; coffee filters to emergency flares; Apollo Mission software to Monopoly: women have discovered, invented and designed some of the most important things we all take for granted, but many of their names are unknown.

Meet incredible inventors from around the world, and learn how inventions happen. This beautifully illustrated book is a guide to remarkable, practical, skillful and amazing inventions by women who have made their mark on history.

With a step-by-step guide to inspire and encourage readers to come up with their own inventions, Bright Sparks is an empowering book that celebrates the minds of women that resulted in some of the most striking discoveries, inventions and designs in history.
...more

Published September 3rd 2018 by O' Brien Press

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Bright Sparks book. Read reviews from world's largest community for readers. An introduction to fifty extraordinary discoveries, inventions and designs b...

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Author: Rochelle Strauss | Illustrator: Rosemary Woods | ISBN: 978-1553379546 | Publisher: Kids Can Press

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Seen from space, our planet looks blue. This is because almost 70 percent of Earth's surface is covered with water. Earth is the only planet with liquid water --- and therefore the only planet that can support life. All water is connected. Every raindrop, lake, underground river and glacier is part of a single global well. Water has the power to change everything --- a single splash can sprout a seed, quench a thirst, provide a habitat, generate energy and sustain life. How we treat the water in the well will affect every species on the planet, now and for years to come. One Well shows how every one of us has the power to conserve and protect our global well. One Well is part of CitizenKid: A collection of books that inform children about the world and inspire them to be better global citizens.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/576260.One_Well

Beautifully illustrated, this book helps children better understand how essential water is to our lives, and the impact of environmental demands, including population growth and pollution on our finite water resources. This book will appeal to the confident reader.

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This book is a great way for children to understand some concepts about water. It discusses how plants and animals need water for their survival and that everyone needs to do their part to conserve water. The book had a lot of interesting facts throughout the book. It also had charts and such to maybe help children better understand what was being said. The book makes the reader think about how they can help to conserve water to help our planet.

Age:4th-6th grade

Use: Sing the water cycle song, te...more

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This book is a great way for children to understand some concepts about water. It discusses how plants and animals need water for their survival and that everyone needs to do their part to conserve water. The book had a lot of interesting facts throughout the book.

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Authors: Various | Illustrator: Nirupama Shekhar | ISBN: 9788181468192 | Publisher: Tulika Publishers

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This timely collection retells stories from mythology and folklore to focus on the need to protect, conserve and value water.

Together with interesting facts and a timeline from earliest times, this book makes a creative plea to readers of all ages to treat water, and, by extension, all life, with respect.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35002714-water-stories-from-around-the-world

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-6archive/

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As a water and sanitation professional I've found the need of the stories around water to be more and more helpful to sensitize communities about water. The stories and poems are especially beautiful and heartwarming. They provide a lot of food for thought as well. I would love to apply some of these stories in my field work down the line! I wish there was more incentive to find and document such stories for the wider public to read!
A heartfelt gratitude to the Tulika publishers for this enthra...more

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As a water and sanitation professional I've found the need of the stories around water to be more and more helpful to sensitize communities about water. The stories and poems are especially beautiful and heartwarming. They provide a lot of food for thought as well.

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Author and Illustrator: Emily Williamson & students of the Quranic School in Cape Coast | ISBN: 9789988860325 | Publisher: Sub-Saharan Publishers

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Delightfully illustrated, this lyrical and timely story-fable reveals the interconnectedness of life – and that we are responsible for our environment because it belongs to all of us. Through the story of a greedy spider who carelessly pollutes the lake, thereby damaging lives and his community, the reader is shown the impact of water pollution. The enduring friendship of the tortoise, frog and spider, illustrates the power of friendship in shaping attitudes and behaviour. The story of the spider finally coming to understand why he is also responsible for nature’s well-being, clearly illustrates the message that we all need to look after our planet, regardless of who we are. The book will appeal to readers of all ages.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-6archive/

The story and illustrations of this book grew out of a series of educational workshops directed by Emily Williamson with students of the Hassaniyya Quranic School in Cape Coast, Ghana. These workshops were part of the larger initiative called The Zongo Water Project whose mission is to use water as a way to improve the quality of life for the Zongo Community in Cape Coast, Ghana.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/41714604-gizo-gizo-a-tale-from-the-zongo-lagoon

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Preview — Gizo-Gizo! A Tale from the Zongo Lagoon by Emily Williamson

Gizo-Gizo! A Tale from the Zongo Lagoon

by
Emily Williamson,

Hassaniyya Quranic School,

Worldreader (Editor)

4.43  ·  Rating details ·  7 ratings  ·  1 review

The story and illustrations of this book grew out of a series of educational workshops directed by Emily Williamson with students of the Hassaniyya Quranic School in Cape Coast, Ghana. These workshops were part of the larger initiative called The Zongo Water Project whose mission is to use water as a way to improve the quality of life for the Zongo Community in Cape Coast, The story and illustrations of this book grew out of a series of educational workshops directed by Emily Williamson with students of the Hassaniyya Quranic School in Cape Coast, Ghana. These workshops were part of the larger initiative called The Zongo Water Project whose mission is to use water as a way to improve the quality of life for the Zongo Community in Cape Coast, Ghana. ...more

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May 13, 2019 Ashley Bostrom rated it really liked it

I really enjoyed Gizo-Gizo. Think The Lorax meets Anansi. It’s an important story for kids to hear. My only complaint was how quickly Spider was able to clean up the lake: “many, many days of hard work.” It has the possibility of making kids think that there’s a quick solution to the world’s climate issues.

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The story and illustrations of this book grew out of a series of educational workshops directed by Emily Williamson with students of the ...

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When fourteen-year-old William Kamkwamba's Malawi village was hit by a drought, everyone's crops began to fail. Without enough money for food, let alone school, William spent his days in the library ... and figured out how to bring electricity to his village. Persevering against the odds, William built a functioning windmill out of junkyard scraps, and thus became the local hero who harnessed the wind.

Lyrically told and gloriously illustrated, this story will inspire many as it shows how—even in the worst of times—a great idea and a lot of hard work can still rock the world.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11735875-the-boy-who-harnessed-the-wind

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-7archive/

Summary, Study guide
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20404953-the-boy-who-harnessed-the-wind-by-william-kamkwamba-l-summary-study

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Fourteen-year-old William's Malawi village was hit by a drought, and so all of the villagers' crops begin to fail. Without enough money for food, his father asks William to drop out of school so he can help support his family. To learn, William spends his days in the library and figures out how to bring electricity to his village. William comes across a junkyard full of parts to make the windmill. Will he be able to put what he learned to the test?
William Kamkwamba's story from his past of a 14...more

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Fourteen-year-old William's Malawi village was hit by a drought, and so all of the villagers' crops begin to fail. Without enough money for food, his father asks William to drop out of school so he can help support his family. To learn, William spends his days in the library and figures out how to bring electricity to his village.

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Iqbal and His Ingenious Idea: How a Science Project Helps One Family and the Planet

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Iqbal and His Ingenious Idea: How a Science Project Helps One Family and the Planet

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It's monsoon season in Bangladesh, which means Iqbal's mother must cook the family's meals indoors, over an open fire. The smoke from the fire makes breathing difficult for his mother and baby sister, and it's even making them sick. Hearing them coughing at night worries Iqbal. So when he learns that his school's upcoming science fair has the theme of sustainability, Iqbal comes up with the perfect idea for his entry: he'll design a stove that doesn't produce smoke! With help from his teacher, Iqbal learns all about solar energy cooking, which uses heat from the sun to cook --- ingenious! Has Iqbal found a way to win first prize in the science fair while providing cleaner air and better health for his family at the same time?

Award-winning author Elizabeth Suneby's thoroughly researched and inspiring story introduces young children to the problems associated with open-flame cooking in the developing world, as well as background information on sustainable technology. Part of the CitizenKid collection, this book uses the common experience of a science fair project to help children recognize that they, too, can help make the world a better place through innovative thinking and creative problem solving. The artwork by Rebecca Green, filled with details of everyday life in a Bangladesh village, beautifully evokes a sense of place and culture. Iqbal offers a perfect example for the character education subject of initiative. End matter includes information about clean cookstoves, a DIY solar cooker activity and a glossary.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36205090-iqbal-and-his-ingenious-idea

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-7archive/

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Iqbal and His Ingenious Idea book. Read 64 reviews from the world's largest community for readers. It's monsoon season in Bangladesh, which means Iqbal's...

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We use oil every day – whether on the bus to school or writing with a pen. But where does it come from? What impact is our use of it having on the environment? What will happen when we run out completely? Explore the answers to these questions in this detailed information book, with stunning photographs and clear diagrams.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13649996-what-if-we-run-out-of-oil

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-7archive/

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Build your child’s reading confidence at home with books at the right level We use oil every day – whether on the bus to school or wr...

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A Basket Of Bangles: How a Business Begins

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A Basket Of Bangles: How a Business Begins

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With seed money borrowed from a bank, a young woman and four of her friends in Bangladesh change their lives by starting their own businesses.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1988549.A_Basket_Of_Bangles

A bank helps a woman start a small business by giving her a loan. She and her friends find success in the business and improve their lives, underlining the power of decent work on one’s quality of life.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-8-archive/

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With seed money borrowed from a bank, a young woman and four of her friends in Bangladesh change their lives by starting their own busine...

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One Hen: How One Small Loan Made a Big Difference

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One Hen: How One Small Loan Made a Big Difference

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Inspired by true events, One Hen tells the story of Kojo, a boy from Ghana who turns a small loan into a thriving farm and a livelihood for many.

After his father died, Kojo had to quit school to help his mother collect firewood to sell at the market. When his mother receives a loan from some village families, she gives a little money to her son. With this tiny loan, Kojo buys a hen.

A year later, Kojo has built up a flock of 25 hens. With his earnings Kojo is able to return to school. Soon Kojo's farm grows to become the largest in the region.

Kojo's story is inspired by the life of Kwabena Darko, who as a boy started a tiny poultry farm just like Kojo's, which later grew to be the largest in Ghana, and one of the largest in west Africa. Kwabena also started a trust that gives out small loans to people who cannot get a loan from a bank.

One Hen shows what happens when a little help makes a big difference. The final pages of One Hen explain the microloan system and include a list of relevant organizations for children to explore.

One Hen is part of CitizenKid: A collection of books that inform children about the world and inspire them to be better global citizens.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2715397-one-hen

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-8-archive/

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One Hen is the moving story about Kojo, a young boy from Ghana. Kojo and his widowed mother collect firewood to sell. They live in a mud-walled house with an open fire for cooking. Beside it is a garden where they grow their own food. They never have much money or much to eat. The families in Kojo's village come up with an idea and from then Kojo's life starts to change for the better. An exciting story, suitable for KS2. The author does an outstanding job in taking an adult topic and weaving...more

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One Hen is the moving story about Kojo, a young boy from Ghana. Kojo and his widowed mother collect firewood to sell. They live in a mud-walled house with an open fire for cooking. Beside it is a garden where they grow their own food. They never have much money or much to eat.

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Twenty-Two Cents: Muhammad Yunus and the Village Bank 

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Twenty-Two Cents: Muhammad Yunus and the Village Bank 

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"A biography of Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, who from a young age was determined to make difference in the world and eventually revolutionized global antipoverty efforts by developing the innovative economic concept of micro-lending. Includes an afterword and author's sources"
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20793980-twenty-two-cents

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-8-archive/

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Twenty-Two Cents: Muhammad Yunus and the Village Bank

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Read 64 reviews from the world's largest community for readers. "A biography of Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, who from a young age was determine...

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Awesome Engineering presents real-world examples of engineering problem-solving to inspire future engineers, architects and designers. This bumper book is packed full of the world’s most amazing feats of engineering. From space stations to underground tunnels, superstructures to jet engines; marvel at the landmark achievements in engineering from across history and around the world. Stunning artwork recreates each engineering wonder, with stylish diagrams, engaging text and photos adding to the fascination and understanding of these awe-inspiring achievements.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-9archive/

List of books in series:
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17018699.Sally_Spray

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Awesome Engineering Skyscrapers book. Read reviews from world's largest community for readers. Follow the development of skyscrapers, as they have grown ...

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Wild Buildings and Bridges: Architecture Inspired by Nature

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Wild Buildings and Bridges: Architecture Inspired by Nature

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From cactuses to birds' wings, termite towers to honeycombs, this book celebrates more than thirty examples of nature's influence on building and bridge designs all over the world. In some instances, architects looked to nature to solve structural problems, like creating an earthquake-proof bridge by mimicking the long roots of a type of grass known for stabilizing riverbanks. Other examples show how nature provides artistic inspiration, like the famous buildings designed by Frank Gehry that evoke the beauty of moving fish. The incredible structures in this book prove that nature and architecture are perfect partners! Sidebar biographies tell us more about these famous architects who have used nature to spectacular effect in their designs. Fun activities throughout add an interactive element, with step-by-step instructions for science experiments and a design-your-own-structure activity. Award-winning author Etta Kaner combines science and art in this unique look at nature's influence on architecture and design. The emphasis on problem-solving and critical thinking make it an excellent choice for science and technology lessons on structures, mechanisms and engineering. The book could also be used for studying earth science and the environment, as it promotes sustainability and eco-friendly structures. Detailed and eye-catching illustrations by award-winning artist Carl Wiens help make the concepts clear and easy to understand. This book will fascinate budding architects and makers who love building and learning how things work. Includes a glossary, resources, author's sources and an index.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/38743167-wild-buildings-and-bridges

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-9archive/

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From cactuses to birds’ wings, termite towers to honeycombs, this book celebrates more than thirty examples of nature’s influence on buil...

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Camilla loves maps. Old ones, new ones, she loves them all! She often imagines what it must have been like to explore and discover a new path for the first time. One morning, Camilla wakes up to a huge snow storm. Her neighbor Parsley can't find the path to the creek. But Camilla has her old map--which inspires her to make her own path and her own map! Includes a Note to Parents and Caregivers celebrating discovery, adventurous problem-solving, and a love of maps.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42784947-camilla-cartographer

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-9archive/

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2019 Ezra Jack Keats Book Award Nominee ​A Bank Street College Best Book of the Year Camilla loves maps. Old ones, new ones, she loves...

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One Plastic Bag: Isatou Ceesay and the Recycling Women of the Gambia

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One Plastic Bag: Isatou Ceesay and the Recycling Women of the Gambia

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Plastic bags are cheap and easy to use. But what happens when a bag breaks or is no longer needed? In Njau, Gambia, people simply dropped the bags and went on their way. One plastic bag became two. Then ten. Then a hundred.

The bags accumulated in ugly heaps alongside roads. Water pooled in them, bringing mosquitoes and disease. Some bags were burned, leaving behind a terrible smell. Some were buried, but they strangled gardens. They killed livestock that tried to eat them. Something had to change.

Isatou Ceesay was that change. She found a way to recycle the bags and transform her community. This inspirational true story shows how one person's actions really can make a difference in our world.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23080097-one-plastic-bag

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdg-book-club-archive/

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One Plastic Bag
One plastic bag is a non-fiction story about a little girl named Isatou. Isatou is from Njau, Gambia. Here Isatou runs into a plastic bag in different parts of her life. The first time is when she uses one herself. This disappoints her grandmother, because the people in the city use a ton of plastic bags. Years pass in Isatou's life, she then encounters goats who are in a pile of plastic bags. The goats are even eating the plastic bags. She then helps the goats and realizes this...more

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One Plastic Bag One plastic bag is a non-fiction story about a little girl named Isatou. Isatou is from Njau, Gambia. Here Isatou runs into a plastic bag in different parts of her life. The first time is when she uses one herself.

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This Child, Every Child: a Book About the World's Children

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This Child, Every Child: a Book About the World's Children

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A groundbreaking book of statistics and stories that compare the lives of children around the world today. Every second of every day, four more children are added to the world's population of over 2.2 billion children. Some of these 2.2 billion children will be cared for and have enough to eat and a place to call home. Many others will not be so fortunate. The bestselling author-illustrator team behind the phenomenal If the World Were a Village and If America Where a Village return with a revealing and beautifully illustrated glimpse into the lives of children around the world. This Child, Every Child uses statistics and stories to draw kids into the world beyond their own borders and provide a window into the lives of their fellow children. As young readers will discover, there are striking disparities in the way children live. Some children lack opportunities that others take for granted. What is it like to be a girl in Niger? How are some children forced into war? How do children around the world differ in their home and school lives? This Child, Every Child answers such questions and sets children's lives against the rights they are guaranteed under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10573988-this-child-every-child

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-10-archive/

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This Child, Every Child book. Read 14 reviews from the world's largest community for readers. A groundbreaking book of statistics and stories that compar...

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This heartwarming book follows the adventures of Sunehri and her friends as they play “house,” a classic game that has been enjoyed by children everywhere. The children in the story do not have a real house, so they create a pretend house out of the items they find across the city. Through their joyful, make-believe game, we get a glimpse of the harsh reality the kids live in. This book inspires children to broaden their perspective, as they are made aware of the inequalities that different children around the world face.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-10-archive/

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/46005256-a-home-of-our-own

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We read the book in our Book Club during the lockdown. Children in this group ranged from 7-11 years and all of them loved the book. Illustrations added to the story beautifully and they could all relate to them. The book is to be experienced. While the book brings forth the dichotomy in the society and makes the readers think, it still manages to leave them with a smile on their faces. They discussed it at length. It was by far one of the best discussions we've had. ...more

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We read the book in our Book Club during the lockdown. Children in this group ranged from 7-11 years and all of them loved the book. Illustrations added to the story beautifully and they could all relate to them. The book is to be experienced.

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This delightful book depicts a community of animals surrounded by a red wall. The story centers around the journey of Little Mouse, who is curious about what life is like beyond the red wall. The hopeful tale inspires children to face their fears and overcome challenges, while recognizing that not everyone has the same freedoms as they do.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-10-archive/

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/38320156-little-mouse-and-the-red-wall

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Little Mouse and the Red Wall book. Read 16 reviews from the world’s largest community for readers.

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How can you be a good global citizen? By understanding the world we live in and how we can effect change. This book explore inequality around the world, from how resources are unfairly shared to why race and gender matter and more. It looks at ways we can challenge inequality and features case studies such as the votes for women campaign and the work of Malala Yousafzai.

The I'm a Global Citizen series explores the concept of 'Global Citizenship': recognising that the world we live in is unfair and unequal, but promoting individual and collective action to challenge and change this. Each book has information, fun activities, challenges, case studies and ideas for group and individual action presented with fun illustrations. The books promote the idea that we have power as individuals: each of us can change things, and each of us has choices about how we behave. They encourage children aged 8+ to counter ignorance and intolerance?
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56817302-i-m-a-global-citizen

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-10-archive/

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I'm a Global Citizen book. Read reviews from world's largest community for readers. How can you be a good global citizen? By understanding the world we l...

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Sonny, a school-lover and responsible student, lives on a Traveller site with his family. However, on this particular weekend, he finds himself having to help his family and neighbors with various tasks. The one thing he doesn’t quite get to is finding his homework workbook. Disappointed in himself, he is honest with his teacher and tells the whole class about his weekend. By the end, Sonny’s experience will prompt readers to realize that the skills they learn outside of school are equally as important as what they learn in school.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-10-archive/

In this new addition to our 'Travellers' Tales' series, Sonny devotes his weekend to helping his neighbours and fellow Travellers with a variety of tasks. He uses many skills, from telling a story at a wedding, to restoring a caravan. In fact, the only thing he doesn't do over the weekend is his homework - his workbook is missing!
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/49365300-the-lost-homework

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The Lost Homework book. Read 8 reviews from the world's largest community for readers. In this new addition to our 'Travellers' Tales' series, Sonny devo...

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Potatoes on Rooftops: Farming in the City

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Potatoes on Rooftops: Farming in the City

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From high school students to high-rise dwellers, people—including Michelle Obama—are discovering innovative ways to grow fresh, healthy, and delicious fruit and vegetables at home, in community gardens, and at school. This brisk, informative overview explains how farming in the city is not only fun, but also important for the planet. There are many ways to farm in the city: a Detroit high school program teaches students to grow food and raise chickens; in Tokyo, a bank vault was converted into an underground greenhouse; in Nairobi, local youth transformed part of a slum into a garden that helps feed their families. Read about modern inventions such as futuristic pod greenhouses, food-producing wall panels, and industrial-sized composters. Short, kid-friendly descriptions and vibrant photos and illustrations keep the pace moving and the tone light. Toronto Public Health and FoodShare, two respected agencies, both have contributed to the book. Potatoes on Rooftops is the perfect book to get you thinking about how you, too, can grow food in the city.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/14431165-potatoes-on-rooftops

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-11-archive/

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Filled with reasons for growing your own food and tips for how to do so, even if you do live in a city or don't have a green thumb, this book offers many examples of communities that are doing so successfully. There are all sorts of suggestions for ways to take advantage of the growing space near your home or even consider participating in a community garden. The book is sure to prompt many readers to consider making lifestyle changes and perhaps encourage students and teachers to get involved i ...more

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Filled with reasons for growing your own food and tips for how to do so, even if you do live in a city or don't have a green thumb, this book offers many examples of communities that are doing so successfully.

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Out of the Way! Out of the Way/Raastha Chodo!Raastha Chodo! (Hindi)

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Out of the Way! Out of the Way/Raastha Chodo!Raastha Chodo! (Hindi)

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A young boy spots a baby tree growing in the middle of a dusty path in his village. He carefully places rocks around it as the local mango seller rushes past shouting, “Out of the way! Out of the way!” As the tree grows bigger, people and animals traverse the path until it becomes a lane, flowing like a river around the tree — getting out of its way. Over time, the lane becomes a road, and a young man crossing the road with his children remembers the baby tree from long ago. By the time he is an old man, the tree has become a giant. The city traffic continues to rattle past, noisier and busier than ever, but sometimes the great tree works its magic, and people just stop, and listen.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8890498-out-of-the-way-out-of-the-way

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-11-archive/

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A young boy spots a baby tree growing in the middle of a dusty path in his village. He carefully places rocks around it as the local mang...

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This inspiring book is based on the true story of the children of the barrio of San Jose de la Urbina in Caracas, Venezuela. There are no parks where they live, and the children must play in the streets. They ask the mayor for an empty lot to build a playground, but all they get are campaign promises. They know that they are the only ones who will make something happen, so they get their friends and family involved until the whole barrio unites to create a space of their own.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/186046.The_Streets_are_Free

The Streets are Free tells the story of how determination and teamwork go a long way for the children of San Jose in Venezuela, who dream of a playground. The streets in their town are getting busier, and they have no space to gather and play. Because many adults ignore their demands, these kids take matter into their own hands.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-11-archive/

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This inspiring book is based on the true story of the children of the barrio of San Jose de la Urbina in Caracas, Venezuela. There are no...

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Errol loves gardening, but there isn't enough room in his flat to grow everything that he would like. When he discovers a secret but neglected space at the top of the apartment block, he has a wonderful idea, but to carry it out he'll need some help. Surely the other residents will be too busy to help him realize his dream? Or just not interested enough? In this heart-warming tale of common purpose within a diverse community, Gillian Hibbs illustrates the power of the natural world to inspire and reward humanity within a seemingly inauspicious environment.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34356526-errol-s-garden

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-11-archive/

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A satisfying story about a boy who wants to garden, but has no more room in his apartment to do this. He discovers his building has a roof, so organizes a community garden there. Simple story + simple illustration + simply told = simply marvelous.

Additional purchase for PreS-gr. 2.

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A satisfying story about a boy who wants to garden, but has no more room in his apartment to do this. He discovers his building has a roof, so organizes a community garden there. Simple story + simple illustration + simply told = simply marvelous. Additional purchase for PreS-gr. 2.

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This is an excellent book that not only captures the imagination of children but also teaches everyone to be careful and respectful of everything. Being rich, like King Leonard, doesn’t mean you can replace everything and anything when it breaks or when you don’t want it anymore. The environmental message is powerful for even adults and makes you think about sustainability, reusing and repurposing. This book shares a fantastic message against our culture of throwing things away and the impact this culture has on our planet.

un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-12-archive/

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/44167403-king-leonard-s-teddy

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King Leonard views everything as disposable, until his teddy bear starts to fall apart. After he repairs the bear, he realizes how wasteful he has been and upcycles his refuse, finally opening his own fix-it shop.

Just a bit heavy-handed, Swan's cautionary tale of wasting resources, when you can repair them generally hits its mark in this predictable story. The digital art at times looks like woodblock prints; they are colorful and emotive.

This title could be useful in a unit on recycling and ste...more

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King Leonard views everything as disposable, until his teddy bear starts to fall apart. After he repairs the bear, he realizes how wasteful he has been and upcycles his refuse, finally opening his own fix-it shop. Just a bit heavy-handed, Swan's cautionary tale of wasting resources, when you can repair them generally hits its mark in this predictable story.

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What a Waste! answers the question: when we throw something away, where is “away”? Ever since cave people cracked open seafood shells for dinner, humans have produced garbage, and we’ve had to figure out what to do with it. What a Waste! explores the history of garbage from earliest times to today, covering subjects including dumps, human waste, water pollution, “problem” garbage, and modern “throwaway” culture. From islands made out of 5,000-year-old garbage in the Florida Everglades and sophisticated waste-disposal systems in ancient Pakistan to “fatbergs” the size of a city bus in sewers today, What a Waste! delves into the fascinating, weird, and often disgusting world of garbage, and shows why it’s a growing problem. Creative solutions are showcased, like Repair Cafés to fix broken items, grocery stores that specialize in “imperfect” fruits and vegetables, and filtration systems in Kenya made from discarded water bottles. With an inviting presentation including hand-lettering and humorous illustrations, this book will both educate and entertain young readers.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31213517-what-a-waste

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-12-archive/

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Can you define the following terms: gullyfluff (pocket lint), nurdles (plastic pellets used to make plastic packaging), mudlark (a 19th century child who waded through garbage looking for things that are worth money), midden (garbage pile). They are all words related to trash, and you'll find mounds of fascinating garbage information inside this book. The number of people on planet Earth is growing and with that growth is coming massive piles of trash. Garbage can have surprising uses, but it ca ...more

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Can you define the following terms: gullyfluff (pocket lint), nurdles (plastic pellets used to make plastic packaging), mudlark (a 19th century child who waded through garbage looking for things that are worth money), midden (garbage pile). They are all words related to trash, and you'll find mounds of fascinating garbage information inside this book.

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One boy's quest for a greener world... one garden at a time.

While out exploring one day, a little boy named Liam discovers a struggling garden and decides to take care of it. As time passes, the garden spreads throughout the dark, gray city, transforming it into a lush, green world.

This is an enchanting tale with environmental themes and breathtaking illustrations that become more vibrant as the garden blooms. Red-headed Liam can also be spotted on every page, adding a clever seek-and-find element to this captivating picture book.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5530988-the-curious-garden

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-12-archive/

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The Curious Garden book. Read 662 reviews from the world's largest community for readers. One boy's quest for a greener world... one garden at a time.W...

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Curious Questions and Answers about Saving the Earth

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Curious Questions and Answers about Saving the Earth

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This quirkily illustrated twist on the popular Q&A format takes a sideways look at the plight facing our beautiful planet and explains how kids can come to the rescue. Find out how many cans you need to recycle to power four hours of TV, why you should take a shower instead of a bath, and what you can do to help polar bears stay cool.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/51937139-curious-questions-and-answers-about-saving-the-earth

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-12-archive/

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Curious Questions and Answers about Saving the Earth

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This quirkily illustrated twist on the popular Q&A format takes a sideways look at the plight facing our beautiful planet and explains ho...

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Join the No-Plastic Challenge!: A First Book of Reducing Waste

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Join the No-Plastic Challenge!: A First Book of Reducing Waste

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For his birthday celebration, Nick has challenged his friends - Yulee, Sally, Pedro and Martin - to spend the day without using any single-use plastic. This means they use their own cloth bags for shopping, they say no thanks to plastic straws and, instead of balloons, they decorate with kites and streamers made of natural materials. The children discover that not using plastic is not that hard. They also learn about what plastic is made of, how much of it surrounds us and how it's polluting our oceans and affecting the food chain. Most importantly, the five friends learn ways to use less - including just saying NO! The book concludes with fun ideas for readers to do a No-Plastic Challenge of their own!

This friendly introduction to a timely and urgent topic is part of Scot Ritchie's popular Exploring Our Community series. It will raise awareness of just how much plastic we use every day, and why that matters. Rather than focusing on the negative, however, the book takes a positive, proactive approach to the subject, empowering children with ideas for what they can do about it. As with all the books in the series, this one features friendly, appealing illustrations and the same diverse cast of characters. It has strong curriculum ties in science, including environmental awareness, sustainability and stewardship. It also offers terrific character education lessons in responsibility, citizenship and initiative.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43522555-join-the-no-plastic-challenge

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-12-archive/

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Wonderful content that offers realistic challenges and information that can add to commitment and environmental action in a kid-friendly way.
Pair with Miranda Paul's ONE PLASTIC BAG: Isatou Ceesay and the Recycling Women of Gambia.

Local action changes lives, and our planet....more

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Wonderful content that offers realistic challenges and information that can add to commitment and environmental action in a kid-friendly way.Pair with Miranda Paul's ONE PLASTIC BAG: Isatou Ceesay and the Recycling Women of Gambia. Local action changes lives, and our planet....more

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No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference

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No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference

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The groundbreaking speeches of Greta Thunberg, the young climate activist who has become the voice of a generation, including her historic address to the United Nations

In August 2018 a fifteen-year-old Swedish girl, Greta Thunberg, decided not to go to school one day in order to protest the climate crisis. Her actions sparked a global movement, inspiring millions of students to go on strike for our planet, forcing governments to listen, and earning her a Nobel Peace Prize nomination.

No One Is Too Small to Make A Difference brings you Greta in her own words, for the first time. Collecting her speeches that have made history across the globe, from the United Nations to Capitol Hill and mass street protests, her book is a rallying cry for why we must all wake up and fight to protect the living planet, no matter how powerless we feel. Our future depends upon it.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/51764686-no-one-is-too-small-to-make-a-difference

There will be many books written about Greta Thunberg, but this one is important as it allows the reader to encounter Greta in her own words. The book collects some of her important speeches, including those given at the UN, the World Economic Forum and climate rallies around the world, and in the process provides the opportunity for young people to read and feel the power of her thinking.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-13-archive/

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About the author

Greta Thunberg is a Swedish climate activist who, as a schoolgirl at age 15, began protesting outside the Swedish parliament about the need for immediate action to combat climate change. She has since become an outspoken and world famous climate activist.

She is known for having initiated the school strike for climate movement that formed in November 2018 and surged globally after the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP24) in December the same year. Her personal activism began in August 2018, when her recurring and solitary Skolstrejk för klimatet ("School strike for the climate") protesting outside the Swedish parliament in Stockholm began attracting media coverage, even though Sweden has already enacted "the most ambitious climate law in the world" - to be carbon neutral by 2045.

On 15 March 2019, an estimated 1.4 million students in 112 countries around the world joined her call in striking and protesting. A similar event involving students from 125 countries took place on 24 May 2019.

Thunberg has received various prizes and awards for her activism. In March 2019, three members of the Norwegian parliament nominated Thunberg for the Nobel Peace Prize. In May 2019, at the age of 16, she featured on the cover of Time magazine. Some media have described her impact on the world stage as the Greta Thunberg effect.

Source: Wikipedia

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No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference

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Read 3,428 reviews from the world's largest community for readers. The groundbreaking speeches of Greta Thunberg, the young climate activist who has become...

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This book immediately captures young readers’ minds as it tells a story filled with peaks and valleys. The reader will see the implications created when our forests and rivers are not adequately cared for while also gaining imperative knowledge about climate action. Children will learn about the importance of climate action and how they can promote a sustainable environment.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-13-archive/

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/45730502-big-rain

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Big Rain book. Read reviews from world's largest community for readers.

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This book tells a unique story that is authentic to the Zarma culture of West Africa. After reading this book, the reader will have a greater understanding of droughts and the devastation they are responsible for worldwide. This story also provides the reader with an abundance of wisdom that will benefit all those concerned with climate action. Lastly, this book will teach children the importance of hard work, determination, and never giving up when trying to achieve goals.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub-13-archive/

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40119781-animal-village

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After reading "Animal Village" by Nelda LaTeef, I knew I have found a story that I would someday use in my future classroom. At the beginning of the story, the animals are faced with a conflict of drought. As a result, Chief Zamboha asks the fellow creatures if they have any suggestions as to how they can break water back into their land. One creature, the tortoise explains that they can dig for water. As a result, the animals dig for multiple days and there is still no water. The animals shame ...more

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After reading "Animal Village" by Nelda LaTeef, I knew I have found a story that I would someday use in my future classroom. At the beginning of the story, the animals are faced with a conflict of drought.

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Following the wild success of The Big Book of Bugs and The Big Book of Beasts, The Big Book of the Blue is the third installment in Yuval Zommer’s beloved series. Alongside everything the young oceanographer needs to know, Zommer’s charming illustrations bring to life some of the slipperiest, scaliest, strangest, and most monstrous underwater animals.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36349758-big-book-of-the-blue

The Big Book of the Blue explores the underwater world through several themes such as looking at animals in danger, learning how to spot creatures at the beach, and discovering how to do our part to save sea life. Filled with fascinating facts, this book’svivid illustrations bring to life some of the most interesting underwater animals.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/goal-14-life-below-water/

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Big Book of the Blue book. Read 64 reviews from the world's largest community for readers. Following the wild success of The Big Book of Bugs and The Big...

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This book encourages children’s imagination and curiosity, as the illustrations let them guess what creatures live in the world’s waters. It’s a great conversation starter about how pollution endangers these animals and what each child can do to help protect life underwater and keep our oceans, lakes, and rivers clean.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/goal-14-life-below-water/

At first we can only see the sea creature’s tails. Some clues help us try to identify each creature as we learn more about each one. Now, can you guess the sea creature that each tail belongs to before they are revealed once the page is turned?
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52747881-heads-and-tails-underwater

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At first we can only see the sea creature's tails. Some clues help us try to identify each creature as we learn more about each one. Now,...

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Immerse yourself in fascinating facts about water! This comprehensive yet accessible exploration of water will help young readers understand many aspects of one of our planet's most precious resources - and how they can protect it. A friendly water droplet character guides children through topics ranging from melting and freezing to the ways in which water literally shapes the Earth. Tales by storytellers from around the world are sprinkled through the book, highlighting the variety of ways in which global cultures value water. The engaging format includes gatefolds and booklets with hands-on activity ideas for learning about and protecting water. Topics covered include: *The importance of water to life *How much of the planet is made of water *Where in the world water is located *Freezing, melting and evaporation *The water cycle *Why animals and plants need water *Salt water versus fresh water environments *Uses for water, including water as a source of renewable energy *Water conservation and how to keep water clean
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57563657-barefoot-books-water

This comprehensive yet accessible exploration of water will help young readers understand many aspects of one of our planet’s most precious resources – and how they can protect it. A friendly water droplet character guides children through topics ranging from melting and freezing to the ways in which water literally shapes the Earth.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/goal-14-life-below-water/

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Immerse yourself in fascinating facts about water! This comprehensive yet accessible exploration of water will help young readers underst...

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Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark Became the Ocean’s Most Fearless Scientist

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Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark Became the Ocean’s Most Fearless Scientist

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At 9 years old, Eugenie Clark developed an unexpected passion for sharks after a visit to the Battery Park Aquarium in New York City. At the time, sharks were seen as mindless killing machines, but Eugenie knew better and set out to prove it. Despite many obstacles in her path, Eugenie was able to study the creatures she loved so much. From her many discoveries to the shark-related myths she dispelled, Eugenie's wide scientific contributions led to the well-earned nickname "Shark Lady."
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32204108-shark-lady

A story about Eugenie Clark who fell in love with sharks from the first moment she saw them at the aquarium and couldn’t imagine anything more exciting than studying these graceful creatures. Through her accomplishments, she taught the world that sharks were to be admired rather than feared and that women can do anything they set their minds to.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/goal-14-life-below-water/

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I think this is a great starter book for someone who is interested in learning about Eugenia Clark. The thing that I love about picture book biographiI think this is a great starter book for someone who is interested in learning about Eugenia Clark. The thing that I love about picture book biographies is that they open the door to further discovery for all ages. This book could be read to a younger child by a parent, but is also great as a read-aloud during library time. ...more

Another PB bio is called Swimming With Sharks: The Daring Discoveries of Eugenie Clark by Heather Lang. Both are great books with similar life perspectives.(less)

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I think this is a great starter book for someone who is interested in learning about Eugenia Clark. The thing that I love about picture book biographiI think this is a great starter book for someone who is interested in learning about Eugenia Clark.

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Sea gardens have been created by First Peoples on the Northwest Coast for more than three thousand years. These gardens consist of stone reefs that are constructed at the lowest tide line, encouraging the growth of clams and other marine life on the gently sloped beach.

This lyrical story follows a young child and an older family member who set out to visit a sea garden early one morning, as the lowest tides often occur at dawn. After anchoring their boat, they explore the beach, discover the many sea creatures that live there, hear the sputtering of clams and look closely at the reef. They reflect on the people who built the wall long ago, as well as those who have maintained it over the years. After digging for clams, they tidy up the beach, then return home.

An author’s note provides further information about sea gardens (also known as clam gardens), which yield a reliable food source and have been traditional places of learning. They have been found along the Pacific coast, from Alaska to British Columbia to Washington State, and some of these gardens are being restored today.

The manuscript has been vetted and approved by the scientists of the Clam Garden Network and Kwaxsistalla Wathl’thla Clan Chief Adam Dick. Roy Henry Vickers, whose ancestry includes the Tsimshian, Haida and HeiltsukFirst Nations, has created hauntingly beautiful images to accompany the text.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/49359478-if-you-want-to-visit-a-sea-garden

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/goal-14-life-below-water/

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If You Want to Visit a Sea Garden book. Read 16 reviews from the world's largest community for readers. Sea gardens have been created by First Peoples on...

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The Bee Tree is a magical story about giant bees, about trees that are higher than your eye can see in a forest that is more dark than light, and about a young boy named Nizam who soon will become a man.

Nizam lives in a village near the rainforest preserve surrounding PeduLake, just below the Thai border in Peninsular Malaysia. His grandfather Pak-Teh is the leader of the honey hunting clan. It is Pak-Teh who has the high honor of climbing the tall Tualang tree in the annual hunt to gather honey from the nests of giant honey bees.

But Pak-Teh is getting older and is now ready to prepare someone to take his place. He believes that Nizam is the one. Even though Nizam has climbed the mighty Tualang—the bee tree—in the daylight, he has never done it at night. Will he be brave enough?

On the first moonless night of the honey hunt, Nizam and Pak-Teh and the other honey hunters enter the dark rainforest. Pak-Teh starts the hunt with a prayer and a traditional story. Then he begins to climb. Nizam follows. Can he climb that high and not be afraid? Will the angry bees sting him?

At the top, Nizam and Pak-Teh use the honey hunters’ secret to keep from being stung, while their clansmen below soothe the bees with chanting. After a week of gathering honey in the nights, the clan returns home to celebrate their sweet and miraculous golden harvest.

At this feast, Pak-Teh honors Nizam with an important announcement.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/597998.The_Bee_Tree

A fascinating book about the Honey Hunters in the Rainforest in Malaysia. This book not only highlights respect for the rainforests, but includes cultural traditions, working together and knowledge about Malaysia, which add geographical context to the story. This book will appeal to the interested reader and also for school projects.

This book connects well with SDG15. As long as there is rainforest, there will be bees. It is inspiring to learn about the traditional harvest techniques to preserve the forests and ultimately help build a better world.

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdg15-life-on-land-reading-list/

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This is a wonderful and true tale about honey hunters in Malaysia. Their age old techniques and respect for the bees and their land is inspiring and amazing. I really enjoyed reading the story as well as the notes at the end of the book that tell more about Malaysia and how the authors learned about the people highlighted in the story. It makes me want to visit there and see it for myself.

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This is a wonderful and true tale about honey hunters in Malaysia. Their age old techniques and respect for the bees and their land is inspiring and amazing. I really enjoyed reading the story as well as the notes at the end of the book that tell more about Malaysia and how the authors learned about the people highlighted in the story.

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A tour of one of the most diverse ecosystems on planet earth: the rainforests of Central America.

Discover the wonder that lies hidden among the roots, above the winding rivers, and under the emerald leaves of the rainforest.

• Features animals like the slender parrot snake to the blue morpho butterfly
• Explores the canopies, where toucans and pale-billed woodpeckers chatter and call
• Other animals include capuchin monkeys who swing from vines and slow-moving sloths who wait out daily thunderstorms

Under the canopy of the rainforest hundreds of animals make their homes, but up in the leaves hides another world.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50998795-over-and-under-the-rainforest

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdg15-life-on-land-reading-list/

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Over and Under the Rainforest book. Read 62 reviews from the world's largest community for readers. A tour of one of the most diverse ecosystems on plane...

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“Imagine a city draped in a blanket of green … Is this the city you know?”

This book of narrative non-fiction looks at the urban forest, starting with a bird’s-eye view of the tree canopy, then swooping down to street level, digging deep into the ground, then moving up through a tree’s trunk, back into the leaves and branches.

It discusses the problems that city trees face, such as the abundance of concrete, poor soil, and challenging light conditions. It traces the history of trees in cities over time, showing how industrialization and the growth of populations in urban centers led to the creation of places like Central Park in New York City, where people could enjoy nature and clean air. It wasn’t until Dutch Elm disease swept across North America, killing hundreds of thousands of trees, that people realized how important trees are to our cities.

So how can we create a healthy environment for city trees? Some urban foresters are trying to create better growing conditions using specially designed soil trenches or planters, they are planting diverse species to reduce the harm of invasive pests, and they are maintaining trees as they age, among a number of other strategies.

The urban forest is a complex ecosystem, and we are a part of it. Trees make our cities more beautiful and provide shade but they also fight climate change and pollution, benefit our health and connections to one another, provide food and shelter for wildlife, and much more. It is vital that we nurture our city forests.

Includes a list of activities to help the urban forest and a glossary.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/49993431-a-forest-in-the-city

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdg15-life-on-land-reading-list/

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As a tree lover, I really liked this book. But the book is having a bit of an identity crisis. The illustrations are pleasing and just right for a picture book, but the text is dense, small in size, and overly sophisticated for its format. I'm wondering who the intended reader is intended to be?

As an adult, this was an interesting, helpful book that I learned a good deal from from and look forward to following up for further reading, especially about the urban tree management plans for major No...more

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As a tree lover, I really liked this book. But the book is having a bit of an identity crisis. The illustrations are pleasing and just right for a picture book, but the text is dense, small in size, and overly sophisticated for its format. I'm wondering who the intended reader is intended to be?

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"Follow the journey of a polar bear from cub to adulthood to find out how they reach the top of the Arctic food chain and survive the frozen north"
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34448361-collins-big-cat-the-life-cycle-of-a-polar-bear

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdg15-life-on-land-reading-list/

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Collins Big Cat - The Life Cycle of a Polar Bear

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Collins Big Cat - The Life Cycle of a Polar Bear book. Read reviews from world's largest community for readers. Follow the journey of a polar bear from ...

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Wangari's Trees of Peace: A True Story from Africa

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Wangari's Trees of Peace: A True Story from Africa

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As a young girl growing up in Kenya, Wangari was surrounded by trees. But years later when she returns home, she is shocked to see whole forests being cut down, and she knows that soon all the trees will be destroyed. So Wangari decides to do something—and starts by planting nine seedlings in her own backyard. And as they grow, so do her plans. . . .

This true story of Wangari Maathai, environmentalist and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, is a shining example of how one woman’s passion, vision, and determination inspired great change.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4010047-wangari-s-trees-of-peace

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdg15-life-on-land-reading-list/

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As a young girl growing up in Kenya, Wangari was surrounded by trees. But years later when she returns home, she is shocked to see whole ...

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The rain clouds are long gone and the dry season scorches the land. Everything is new for the baby giraffe. As she bounds ahead and lags behind, her mother patiently explains the ways of the grasslands. And until she grows a little taller, older, and wiser, her mother reminds her: "You're strong with me." From the makers of You're Safe With Me and the Kirkus Best Picture Book of the Year You're Snug With Me.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43572574-you-re-strong-with-me

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdg15-life-on-land-reading-list/

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British author/illustrator team Chitra Soundar and Poonam Mistry, who previously collaborated on the gorgeous You're Safe With Me and You're Snug with Me, return to the form in this third wonderful picture-book. In Soundar's gentle text, a young giraffe is guided through the dangers of the savannah's dry season by her caring mother, who continually reassures here with the statement that "you're strong with me." Mistry's accompanying artwork, done in ink in intricate Indian folk style, de...more

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British author/illustrator team Chitra Soundar and Poonam Mistry, who previously collaborated on the gorgeous You're Safe With Me and You're Snug with Me , return to the form in this third wonderful picture-book. In Soundar's gentle text, a young giraffe is guided through the dangers of the savannah's dry season by her caring mother, who continually reassures here with the statement that "you're strong with me."

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Discover the remarkable plants and animals that live in the world’s driest climates—both hot and cold! With beautifully illustrated landscapes, this book proves just how much life exists in the world’s deserts. Travel around the globe and encounter hundreds of rare and little-known plants and animals that thrive in dry environments. Learn about nocturnal species who occupy the deserts, common survival tactics, lethal creatures to watch for, and how the desert food chain functions.
Hoot and Howl Across the Desert is an engaging investigation of some of the most extreme environments on Earth, from California’s Mojave Desert to the Arctic and from the Sahara to the Australian outback.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/46158714-hoot-and-howl-across-the-desert

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdg15-life-on-land-reading-list/

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Een leuk en prachtig getekend boek over de woestijnen die we op deze planeet hebben. Ik vond het wel apart dat de dieren patroontjes hadden op hun lijf. Het was op punten mooi hoor, maar ik vond het ook niet passen. Later komen we er dus achter dat het voor een reden is gedaan en toen kon ik het net wat meer appreciëren.
Ik vond het mooi hoeveel we leren over de woestijnen en dat de woestijnen allemaal belicht worden, van de grote tot de wat kleinere. En dan zijn er nog spotlights op dieren, pla...more

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Een leuk en prachtig getekend boek over de woestijnen die we op deze planeet hebben. Ik vond het wel apart dat de dieren patroontjes hadden op hun lijf. Het was op punten mooi hoor, maar ik vond het ook niet passen.

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A moving, poetic narrative and child-friendly illustrations follow the heartbreaking, ultimately hopeful journey of a little girl who is forced to become a refugee.

The day war came there were flowers on the windowsill and my father sang my baby brother back to sleep.

Imagine if, on an ordinary day, after a morning of studying tadpoles and drawing birds at school, war came to your town and turned it to rubble. Imagine if you lost everything and everyone, and you had to make a dangerous journey all alone. Imagine that there was no welcome at the end, and no room for you to even take a seat at school. And then a child, just like you, gave you something ordinary but so very, very precious. In lyrical, deeply affecting language, Nicola Davies's text combines with Rebecca Cobb's expressive illustrations to evoke the experience of a child who sees war take away all that she knows.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/38659075-the-day-war-came

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British children's author and poet Nicola Davies turns to the difficult subjects of war and refugees in this powerful picture-book, which takes as its text the poem on the subject that Davies first published in The Guardian. Describing the life of a young girl, and how it is interrupted by war, the narrative follows its subject as she flees across land and sea, eventually coming to an unwelcoming place. Will she ever find a home again - will she ever live somewhere that war doesn't permeate life...more

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British children's author and poet Nicola Davies turns to the difficult subjects of war and refugees in this powerful picture-book, which takes as its text the poem on the subject that Davies first published in The Guardian.

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The Rainbow Flag: Bright, Bold and Beautiful

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The Rainbow Flag: Bright, Bold and Beautiful

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The remarkable story of how artist Gilbert Baker and his friends created the iconic Rainbow Flag in 1978

Flags are brilliant and clever works of art and design, and they bring people together under a common banner. This colorful story follows a group of friends who helped dye and sew strips of cloth to create the first Rainbow Flags for the San Francisco Gay Freedom Day Parade in 1978.

Led by a young artist named Gilbert Baker, the friends set out to create a flag that people could march behind during the Pride Parade. They knew the flag needed to be bright, in order to be seen by everyone as they marched. It needed to be bold, to lead the crowd. And it needed to be beautiful, like the love celebrated by the parade! The result is an iconic flag that has become an international symbol of the gay pride movement.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43908867-the-rainbow-flag

Today the Rainbow Flag is a familiar sight, at the Pride Parade and around the world. But it is not only a universal symbol; it is also a brilliant object of design that is part of the collection of The Museum of Modern Art in New York. This story, based on true events, follows the birth of the idea and the collaborative creation of the flag and, above all, demonstrates the strength and ingenuity possible when a group of people—friends, community, neighbors, and family—take a stand for civil rights and l-o-v-e.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/

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An important book for sure for its story but the illustrations are boring and not really all that enticing for kids. Personally, am not fan of the style and think there are pretties picture books on this same topic.

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An important book for sure for its story but the illustrations are boring and not really all that enticing for kids. Personally, am not fan of the style and think there are pretties picture books on this same topic.

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On 11 February 1990, a seventy-one-year-old South African man was released from jail after 10,000 nights as a prisoner. His name was Nelson Mandela and the eyes of the world were upon him as he made his first steps as a free man. This was the moment campaigners around the world had waited for. This grey-haired man emerging into sunshine was a symbol that South Africa had finally become free of apartheid. This book tells the story of an extraordinary man who has struggled for race equality all his life – and won. It tells of a man who became the president of the people he helped to free and in doing so earned the love of people all around the world.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3020900-nelson-mandela

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This book tells the story of an extraordinary man who has struggled for race equality all his life, and won. It tells of a man who became...

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Illustrated in rich pastels, this child’s-eye view of an important milestone in South African history allows young readers to experience every detail of this eventful day.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/830198.The_Day_Gogo_Went_to_Vote

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Sisulu, E. B. (1996). The Day Gogo Went to Vote: South Africa, April 1994. Boston: Little, Brown, and Company Limited.

This book follows Gogo, a ninety-four-year-old lady, through the eyes of her six-year-old granddaughter during the momentous time period in which blacks in South Africa gained the right to vote. It was written by a Zimbabwean-born author who actually manned the election polls in South Africa during those historic elections. The art is very
unique, as it is smudged like chalk on...more

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Sisulu, E. B. (1996). The Day Gogo Went to Vote: South Africa, April 1994. Boston: Little, Brown, and Company Limited. This book follows Gogo, a ninety-four-year-old lady, through the eyes of her six-year-old granddaughter during the momentous time period in which blacks in South Africa gained the right to vote.

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Be the Change: A Grandfather Gandhi Story

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Be the Change: A Grandfather Gandhi Story

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In this breathtaking companion to the award-winning Grandfather Gandhi, Arun Gandhi, with Bethany Hegedus, tells a poignant, personal story of the damage of wastefulness, gorgeuously illustrated by Evan Turk.

At Grandfather Gandhi’s service village, each day is filled, from sunrise to sunset, with work that is done for the good of all. The villagers vow to live simply and non-violently. Arun Gandhi tries very hard to follow these vows, but he struggles with one of the most important rules: not to waste.

How can throwing away a worn-down pencil hurt anyone? How can wastefulness lead to violence? With the help of his grandfather, Arun learns how every wasteful act, no matter how small, affects others. And in time he comes to understand the truth of his grandfather’s words: “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28954138-be-the-change

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/

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Arun Gandhi draws once again upon his childhood experiences living at the Sevagram ashram, his famous grandfather's service village, in this second picture-book following upon his earlier Grandfather Gandhi. Still struggling to live up to his grandfather's example, the young Arun finds it particularly difficult to uphold his vow not to waste, and has trouble understanding how wastefulness is related to violence. When his grandfather makes him search for a pencil stub he threw away in a momen...more

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Arun Gandhi draws once again upon his childhood experiences living at the Sevagram ashram, his famous grandfather's service village, in this second picture-book following upon his earlier Grandfather Gandhi . Still struggling to live up to his grandfather's example, the young Arun finds it particularly difficult to uphold his vow not to waste, and has trouble understanding how wastefulness is related to violence.

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A beautifully illustrated picture book that sensitively explains larger issues and crises that dominate the news in an appropriate manner for children.

The Children in Our World picture book series helps children make sense of the larger issues and crises that dominate the news in a sensitive and appropriate manner. With relatable comparisons, carefully researched text and striking illustrations, children can begin to understand what war and conflict are, how they affect people and how readers can help those who are affected.

Where issues aren't appropriate to describe in words, Hanane Kai's striking and sensitive illustrations help children visualise what war and conflict are, in images that are suited to their age and disposition.

The series forms an excellent cross-curricular resource that looks at refugees, war, poverty and racism making them ideal for tying into Refugee Week and discussions about current affairs.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35259696-global-conflict

With our 24/7 news cycle and constant access to the latest headlines, the world can be a scary place. Now imagine you’re a child trying to make sense of it all!

In Global Conflict, children can get answers to questions like: What is global conflict? And how does it affect people in countries all over the world? Children will begin to understand the way others struggle with these issues and discover ways they can help.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/

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Global Conflict book. Read 9 reviews from the world's largest community for readers. A beautifully illustrated picture book that sensitively explains lar...

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How can you be a good global citizen? By understanding the world we live in and how we can effect change. This book explores the issues of peace and conflict, including why peace is important and how we can keep the peace. It includes a profile of Leymah Gbowee and projects such as how to activate to draw a peace path and how to organise a day of peace.

The I'm a Global Citizen series explores the concept of 'Global Citizenship': recognising that the world we live in is unfair and unequal, but promoting individual and collective action to challenge and change this. Each book has information, fun activities, challenges, case studies and ideas for group and individual action presented with fun illustrations. The books promote the idea that we have power as individuals: each of us can change things, and each of us has choices about how we behave. They encourage children aged 8+ to counter ignorance and intolerance.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56817306-i-m-a-global-citizen

How can you be a good global citizen? By understanding the world we live in and how we can effect change. This book explores the issues of peace and conflict, including why peace is important and how we can keep the peace. It includes a profile of Leymah Gbowee and projects such as how to activate to draw a peace path and how to organise a day of peace.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/

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I'm a Global Citizen book. Read reviews from world's largest community for readers. This book explores how everyone can be good global citizens through c...

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Real kids make a real difference in their communities in this vibrantly photographed chronicle by George Ancona.

George Ancona celebrates the joy of kids giving back. In one after-school program, middle-school students mentor and tutor younger children. Via a special partnership, schoolchildren help professionals train assistance dogs for people with disabilities. At a community farm, families plant, grow, and harvest produce for soup kitchens and charities. In these and other examples of volunteering, kids of all ages work together knitting hats and scarves for those who could use warm clothes, packing hot meals to deliver to housebound people, and keeping roadways clean. Young humanitarians reading these accounts may well be inspired to find ways that they can help, too.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24727093-can-we-help

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/

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Can We Help?: Kids Volunteering to Help Their Communiti...

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Read 20 reviews from the world's largest community for readers. Real kids make a real difference in their communities in this vibrantly photographed chroni...

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From the same author and illustrator as our #1 nationally best-selling What Do You Do With an Idea? comes a new book to encourage you to look closely at problems and discover the possibilities they can hold.

What do you do with a problem? Especially one that follows you around and doesn't seem to be going away? Do you worry about it? Ignore it? Do you run and hide from it?

This is the story of a persistent problem and the child who isn't so sure what to make of it. The longer the problem is avoided, the bigger it seems to get. But when the child finally musters up the courage to face it, the problem turns out to be something quite different than it appeared.

This is a story for anyone, at any age, who has ever had a problem that they wished would go away. It's a story to inspire you to look closely at that problem and to find out why it's here. Because you might discover something amazing about your problem… and yourself.

What are problems for? They challenge us, shape us, push us, and help us to discover just how strong and brave and capable we really are. Even though we don't always want them, problems have a way of bringing unexpected gifts.

So, what will you do with your problem? Now that's up to you.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28863341-what-do-you-do-with-a-problem

This is the story of a persistent problem and of a child who isn’t quite so sure what to make of it. The longer he avoids the problem, the bigger it seems to get. But when the child finally musters up the courage to face it, the problem turns out to be something quite different indeed.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/

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Read 814 reviews from the world's largest community for readers. From the same author and illustrator as our #1 nationally best-selling What Do You Do With...

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The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Young Civil Rights Activist

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The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Young Civil Rights Activist

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Meet the youngest known child to be arrested for a civil rights protest in Birmingham, Alabama, 1963, in this moving picture book that proves you’re never too little to make a difference.

Nine-year-old Audrey Faye Hendricks intended to go places and do things like anybody else.

So when she heard grown-ups talk about wiping out Birmingham’s segregation laws, she spoke up. As she listened to the preacher’s words, smooth as glass, she sat up tall. And when she heard the plan—picket those white stores! March to protest those unfair laws! Fill the jails!—she stepped right up and said, I’ll do it! She was going to j-a-a-il!

Audrey Faye Hendricks was confident and bold and brave as can be, and hers is the remarkable and inspiring story of one child’s role in the Civil Rights Movement.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20670612-the-youngest-marcher

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/

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The Youngest Marcher book. Read 280 reviews from the world's largest community for readers. Meet the youngest known child to be arrested for a civil righ...

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Chloe doesn't really know why she turns away from the new girl, Maya, when Maya tries to befriend her. And every time Maya asks if she can play with Chloe and the other girls, the answer is always no. So Maya ends up playing alone. And then one day she's gone.

When Chloe's teacher gives a lesson about how even small acts of kindness can change the world, Chloe is stung by the opportunity that's been lost. How much better could it have been if she'd just shown Maya a little kindness and opened her heart to friendship?
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13588082-each-kindness

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/

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One person.

Small, quiet,

insignificant.

But when one person,

and one person,

and one person

become many,

they can change

a planet.

Spare, poetic text and breathtaking pictures invite readers on a stirring journey that gently illuminates the causes of climate change as well as how our individual and collective actions can make the world better.

With calm, truthfulness, and beauty, To Change a Planet demonstrates the importance of caring for our planet. Eye popping explosions of color on every page create a stunning visual narrative that invites readers to find and follow the same characters through their daily lives and ultimately to a climate march on Washington, where their storylines converge.

Clear endnotes vetted by a climate expert answer a myriad of questions in simple language. Meticulously researched and brimming with hope and hands-on solutions that will edify and empower even the youngest readers, To Change a Planet is a loving ode to our only home and vital for every child, classroom, and family.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57468695-to-change-a-planet

https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sdgbookclub/

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About the author

Christina Soontornvat grew up behind the counter of her parents' Thai restaurant in a small Texas town with her nose stuck in a book. She is very proud of both her Thai and her Texan roots, and makes regular trips to both Weatherford and Bangkok to see her beloved family members (and eat lots and lots of Thai food!). Christina is the author of the fantasy middle grade series, The Changelings, and the early chapter book series, Diary of an Ice Princess. Her forthcoming books include the middle grade fantasy, A Wish in the Dark, and All Thirteen, a nonfiction account of the Thai Cave Rescue.

In addition to being an author, Christina holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and a master's degree in Science Education. She spent a decade working in the science museum field, where she designed programs and exhibits to get kids excited about science. She is passionate about STEM (science, technology engineering, and math), and loves learning new things. She lives in Austin, Texas with her husband, two young children, and one old cat.

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About the author Christina Soontornvat grew up behind the counter of her parents' Thai restaurant in a small Texas town with her nose stuck in a book. She is very proud of both her Thai and her Texan roots, and makes regular trips to both Weatherford and Bangkok to see her beloved family members (and eat lots and lots of Thai food!).