While children often enthusiastically share their favorite animal and mimic its sounds, it’s not uncommon for young minds to overlook the fascinating world of plants. To encourage kids to develop an appreciation for botany, this list of plant books offers a range of engaging resources that blend science with storytelling.
From nonfiction titles that explore the intricacies of plant life to tales that highlight the vital connections between humans and plants, these books provide a comprehensive introduction to the importance of plants in our daily lives. Whether it’s exploring the food we eat, the clothes we wear, or the homes we inhabit, there are countless ways in which plants impact our world.
By giving kids a plant to care for and a book that inspires them to take action, we can empower young minds to cultivate a sense of responsibility and appreciation for the natural world.
Plant, Sow, Make, & Grow: Mud-tastic Activities For Budding Gardeners by Esther Coombs
What sets this book apart is its accessibility and simplicity, making it an ideal introduction to gardening for young hands. The publication seamlessly blends informative content about beginner-friendly plants with creative activities inspired by the world of gardening, providing an engaging and comprehensive experience.
Just Like Us! Plants by Bridget Heos and David Clark
Discovering unexpected connections between humans and nature can be a powerful way to engage reluctant readers. This fascinating book reveals the surprising similarities between people and plants. For instance, just as plants have evolved complex strategies for communication and camouflage, we too can learn from their remarkable adaptability.
Perfectly Peculiar Plants by Chris Thorogood and Catell Ronca
This captivating book is a treasure trove of unusual plant facts that will delight kids who crave the weird and wonderful. Beyond its fascinating tales of deadly and insect-eating flora, the text also lays a solid groundwork for understanding plant biology and development.
Whether exploring the intricacies of photosynthesis or marveling at the extraordinary adaptations of plants from diverse corners of the globe, readers are treated to an engaging and informative journey that’s sure to spark their curiosity.
Horse & Buggy Plant a Seed! by Ethan Long
This engaging installment of the Horse and Buggy series is perfectly suited for young learners seeking to expand their understanding of plant care. The charming visual aids not only enhance the learning experience but also provide valuable support for mastering unfamiliar vocabulary, making it an ideal resource for developing readers.
Let’s Get Gardening by DK Publishing
While no collection of plant books for kids would be comprehensive without including practical gardening resources, this particular book stands out for its accessible approach. Step-by-step instructions, paired with clear and concise photographs, guide young gardeners through a range of projects that not only teach essential gardening skills but also emphasize the importance of attracting beneficial wildlife, such as bees and butterflies, to one’s garden.
Sadiq and the Green Thumbs by Siman Nuurali and Anjan Sarkar
In this heartwarming tale, a young Somali boy named Sadiq embarks on an inspiring journey that highlights the importance of lending a helping hand. With a kind and gentle spirit, Sadiq takes charge of his teacher’s garden, sparking a chain reaction of kindness among his friends as they join forces to help with various tasks. This relatable protagonist will resonate with quiet kids who are eager to discover the joy and fulfillment that comes from nurturing and growing their own green spaces.
A Walk on the Shoreline by Rebecca Hainnu and Qin Leng
This narrative-driven book aims to foster a sense of wonder and curiosity in young readers by highlighting the diverse array of animals and plants that inhabit their surroundings. The story follows Nukappia, who embarks on a camping adventure along a picturesque shoreline in northern Canada, where she discovers the unique native flora, such as seaweed and shore grasses, that thrive in this environment.
Yum! MmMm! Que Rico!: America’s Sproutings by Pat Mora and Rafael Lopez
This delightful book brings together vibrant illustrations and bilingual haikus that showcase the diversity of crop plants native to the Americas. A treasure trove for young learners, this unique publication combines the worlds of botany, cuisine, and poetry in a way that’s both engaging and educational. With poems presented in both Spanish and English, it’s an ideal resource for readers of all ages.
Seeds Move! by Robin Page
Engage younger readers with a dash of lighthearted humor and fascinating facts about the natural world. For instance, the dung beetle’s crucial role in seed dispersal and germination can spark curiosity and enthusiasm. This engaging book not only delves into the process but also presents its findings through vibrant illustrations, making it an entertaining and educational read.
A Day with Yayah by Nicola I. Campbell and Julie Flett
This endearing narrative skillfully conveys the importance of intergenerational learning to young readers, highlighting the value of seeking knowledge from elder family members. The story takes readers on a journey with a First Nations family in British Columbia as they venture out to forage for native herbs and mushrooms, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of their community.
Flower Talk by Sara Levine and Masha D’yans
As we marvel at the vibrant colors and sweet scents of blooming flowers, it’s natural to ponder their purpose. This thought-provoking book takes a fascinating journey, delving into the world of pollinators and revealing how different species perceive flowers from their distinctive viewpoints. The result is an enlightening experience that will captivate both children and adults, offering a deeper understanding of these captivating creatures and the intricate dance they perform with flowers.
Three Lost Seeds: Stories of Becoming by Stephie Morton and Nicole Wong
This book skillfully weaves together two seemingly disparate threads – the science behind seed germination and the poignant stories of resilient young people forced to flee their homes. Rather than simply presenting facts about the conditions necessary for seeds to sprout, the author uses this concept as a powerful metaphor to explore the experiences of displaced children. As such, it makes for a deeply thought-provoking read that will resonate with both children and adults.
Is It Tu B’Shevat Yet? by Chris Barash and Alessandra Psacharopulo
This delightful book brings to life the joy and celebration of Tu B’Shevat through its vivid illustrations of characters planting trees and indulging in fruit feasts. As the seasons transition from winter’s chill to spring’s promise, this charming tale serves as a poignant reminder of the cyclical nature of growth and renewal. For those seeking to learn more about Jewish holidays or simply appreciate the beauty of spring’s awakening, this book is an excellent choice.
Pretty Tricky: The Sneaky Ways Plants Survive by Etta Kaner and Ashley Barron
Despite their seemingly tranquil nature, plants are actually masters of disguise. This fascinating book reveals the clever ways plants have adapted to ensure their survival and reproductive success. One of its most striking features is the intricate use of cut-paper collages that brings the subject matter vibrantly to life.
Harlem Grown: How One Big Idea Transformed a Neighborhood by Tony Hillery and Jessie Hartland
One urban gardening enthusiast’s remarkable journey to transform an abandoned Harlem lot into a lush oasis serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of community-driven initiatives. With the support of local school kids, this dedicated individual brought new life to a once-barren space, demonstrating that anyone, regardless of background or experience, can make a tangible impact through gardening.
Auntie Yang’s Great Soybean Picnic by Ginnie Lo and Beth Lo
As you drive through the Midwest, it’s hard to miss the vast soybean fields that stretch across the landscape. But after delving into this delightful book, these seemingly ordinary fields take on a new level of importance. What emerges is not only a fascinating exploration of how soybeans are woven into the fabric of Chinese cuisine, but also a heartfelt portrayal of the intricate relationships within immigrant families across generations.
The Sequoia Lives On by Joanna Cooke and Fiona Hsieh
Discovering the majesty of the sequoia is an experience that transcends generations, and there’s no better way to grasp its enormity than through a picture book written by a park ranger. This unique resource offers a fascinating glimpse into the life cycle of the world’s largest trees, revealing the intricate details that make these natural wonders truly awe-inspiring.
What’s more, this engaging book is an excellent tool for inspiring young readers and fostering a sense of responsibility towards conservation in the next generation.
The Boy Who Grew a Forest: The True Story of Jadav Payeng by Sophia Gholz and Kayla Harren
The story of a young boy who single-handedly restored a 1,300 acre forest on degraded land ravaged by deforestation and erosion serves as a powerful reminder that kids can be agents of positive change. Moreover, this inspiring tale helps children grasp the intricate connections between native flora and the broader ecosystem.
Summer Green to Autumn Gold: Uncovering Leaves’ Hidden Colors by Mia Posada
A children’s plant book delves into the fascinating world of chlorophyll, exploring how it plays a crucial role in the transformation of deciduous leaves during the fall season. As the colors of the changing leaves unfold, the book not only showcases their vibrant hues but also explains the scientific principles behind this natural phenomenon. The accompanying artwork evokes the warmth and coziness of autumn, making for an engaging and educational read.
An’s Seed by Zaozao Wang and Li Huang, Translated by Helen Wang
This bilingual book, featuring Chinese and English translations, recounts an engaging tale that illustrates the fascinating process of lotus seed germination. The story’s simplicity makes it an excellent tool for sparking children’s curiosity about the natural world. As you strive to create a well-rounded reading list for kids, consider balancing popular animal-themed books with equally captivating plant-based stories.
For those who enjoy gardening as a family activity, additional recommendations can be found [link]. If you’re seeking more book suggestions, explore our roundup of the best children’s titles from 2020.