Best Earth Day Books for Kids in 2025

In fact, each year on the 22nd of April, Earth Day reminds every human being of the importance of keeping our planet healthy—and great storytelling continues to inspire future generations toward eco-heroism. Whether it’s a parent’s opportunity to nurture a love for nature in their child or an educator’s chance to create meaningful classroom activities, children’s books serve as powerful tools to plant the seeds of environmental awareness.

Here are some of the best Earth Day books for kids in 2025, blending fun, facts, and big-hearted messages to help kids understand and love the world around them.

1. Pick Up Pals by Melinda M. Fons, Illustrated by James Yano

If you're searching for an upbeat, engaging story that turns environmental action into a kid-friendly adventure, Pick Up Pals is the perfect starting point. This beautifully illustrated book follows a six-year-old Stella and her Pickup Pals as they team up to clean up their neighborhood and learn the value of teamwork, kindness, and caring for the Earth.

What makes this book stand out is its balance of education and fun. It introduces eco-concepts like litter prevention, teamwork, and personal responsibility in a way that’s empowering rather than overwhelming. The characters are relatable and charming, and the story naturally opens up conversations about how kids can make a difference.

If you're looking to build your Earth Day reading list, don’t miss Pick Up Pals—it’s one of the most joyful and effective earth day books for kids you’ll find this year.

2. We Are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom, illustrated by Michaela Goade

Winner of the Caldecott Medal, We Are Water Protectors is a lyrical and powerful book inspired by Indigenous-led movements to protect Earth’s natural water sources. With its poetic narrative and stunning watercolor illustrations, the book instills a reverence for nature and a call to action that’s both emotional and accessible for young readers.

Ideal for Earth Day discussions around clean water, respect for Indigenous knowledge, and environmental justice, this book is a meaningful addition to any home or classroom library.

3. The Tree in Me by Corinna Luyken

While not exclusively about Earth Day, The Tree in Me is a poetic exploration of how we are all connected to nature. Through dreamy illustrations and minimal text, this book celebrates the strength, beauty, and growth that we share with the natural world.

It’s a wonderful conversation starter for younger children who are beginning to notice nature around them. The book’s gentle tone encourages mindfulness and appreciation—perfect themes for an Earth Day read-aloud session.

4. Compost Stew: An A to Z Recipe for the Earth by Mary McKenna Siddals, illustrated by Ashley Wolff

Kids love rhymes, recipes, and hands-on fun—which is why Compost Stew is a consistent Earth Day favorite. This alphabet book introduces composting through an imaginative “recipe” that includes everything from eggshells to zucchini ends.

More than just a list of compost ingredients, this book gets kids excited about sustainability. Pair it with a simple composting activity at home or in the classroom, and you’ve got an Earth Day lesson they won’t forget. It's perfect for preschool and early elementary students.

5. Old Enough to Save the Planet by Loll Kirby, illustrated by Adelina Lirius

This inspiring book introduces real-life young environmental activists from around the globe—kids who have planted trees, cleaned up beaches, and created campaigns to fight pollution. Each story is a reminder that no one is too small to make a difference.

Old Enough to Save the Planet is a great pick for older elementary-aged readers, especially if you're hoping to introduce more global awareness into your Earth Day activities. It empowers children to find their voice and take action in their own communities.

6. The Earth Book by Todd Parr

Bright, bold, and easy to understand, The Earth Book is a classic for a reason. Todd Parr’s signature style helps break down big environmental ideas into simple messages like turning off lights, recycling, and using both sides of the paper.

It’s a great pick for toddlers and early learners who are just starting to understand the world around them. This book also includes a helpful list of “go green” tips for kids, making it a useful resource long after Earth Day has passed.

The Last Word on Little Earth Heroes

Earth Day is not just a day on the calendar; it is a time to have meaningful conversations and inspire action for nurturing children's lifelong love for the Earth. Look to titles such as Pick Up Pals, as well as others on the list: entertaining but educational, empowering, and catalyzing ripples of change.

Whether you are planting seeds in the garden or the minds of the young, the power of our stories matters. So this April, gather the kids, find a sunny or cozy spot, and dive into one (or all!) of these great Earth Day books for kids.