The World Is Ours to Cherish

December 11, 2023
Speaking in broad language about how global warming is impacting the natural world, Heglar’s epistolary picture book debut begins by noting the “magic all around you. You can see it when the sun rises in the morning.” Establishing that climate change is apparent, simple text next invites readers to cherish nature (“the fireflies who light the night sky”) as a step toward implementing collective change. In a saturated graphical style, Mineker’s digital illustrations depict people of various skin tones encountering the outdoors and collaborating on concrete solutions amid a repeating rainbow motif. It’s a gentle introduction to climate advocacy that emphasizes learning and care. An author’s note and “First Steps for Changing the World” conclude. Ages 4–8.

December 15, 2023
A tale that imparts important messages about the beauty and magic of the world--and encourages readers to treasure it. "There is magic all around you," an unseen narrator notes. "You are part of this magic." Directly addressing young readers, Heglar gently observes that so much of the world has changed for the worse, yet there's still so much to cherish: fireflies, morning birds singing, a cool breeze on a hot day, trees that shield us from the wind. Despite the drastic effects of climate change, Heglar makes it clear that as long as we have hope and continue to work together, we can change the world for the better. The text reads like a lovely, delicate poem threaded with urgency, compassion, honesty, and optimism. Heglar discusses the dangers of a changing world in ways that are appropriate and approachable for children but that never ignore the dire realities facing the planet. The themes of the magic of hope and beauty will tug at readers' heartstrings. Those who feel moved should look to the author's note, which briefly discusses climate change, and the appended First Steps for Changing the World, a list of five specific actions readers can take. Mineker's soft, inviting illustrations complement the text and depict people diverse in terms of age and skin tone. An honest and hopeful call for climate caretaking. (Picture book. 4-6)

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