CCBC Booklists

CCBC booklist are compiled from books we have recommended in various editions of CCBC Choices. Most of these booklists are updated annually. You can also select books from one or more booklists to create a custom list, which can also include additional books from the CCBC-Recommended Book Search.

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Change Is in the Air: Carbon, Climate, Earth, and Us

by Debbie Levy

CCBC Review:

This succinct and scientific text explains what the element of carbon is, how it is created and used, and why there is an excess of carbon blanketing the Earth. Three mechanisms by which the planet has the power to reduce atmospheric carbon are also delineated, including kelp in the sea, mangroves in the wetlands, and dirt in the forest. For example, in an above- and below-ground scene of a deciduous forest, accessible language describes how leafy plants and trees drink carbon from air while their roots bury carbon into the dirt. White dotted lines and arrows illustrate the movement of the invisible carbon without complicating the big picture. The book concludes with the critical role humans play, highlighting ways humans can decrease carbon, such as conversion to non-fossil fuels, restorative farming practices, and clean transportation choices. Without blame or doom, this science-rich picture book aims to empower young citizens. Comprehensive endpapers with clear line drawings round out the book’s core concepts. ©2025 Cooperative Children’s Book Center

Illustrated by Alex Boersma

CCBC Age Recommendation: Ages 5-10
Age Range: PreK-Early Elementary (Ages 4-7) Grades 3-5 (Ages 8-10)
Format: Picture book
Subjects: Environmental Challenges Nature/Environment Science and Scientists

On CCBC Booklists: Literary Science 1: K-5 Mentor Texts Eco-Reading: Selected Books for Children and Teens about Our Earth and the Environment Picture Books for Older Children and Teens: Never Too Old

Publisher: Bloomsbury
Publish Year: 2024
Pages: 36
ISBN: 9781547612062
CCBC Location: Non-Fiction, 577 Levy

Can’t find what you’re looking for? Our Recommended Book Search includes access to CCBC-recommended titles based on subject headings created by our staff.

Please send questions or comments about CCBC booklists to ccbcinfo@education.wisc.edu.