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More information about CCBC Choices book recommendations
Change Is in the Air: Carbon, Climate, Earth, and Us
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:
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