What would a children's book on sustainability accomplish?

The inspiration for this book came from a conversation about having children, which got me thinking about the future generations and the impact climate change will have on their day to day lives. While young kids do not hold the power to make serious impacts, parents do. So how can parents and children get involved with sustainability naturally, without having to allot additional time? Storybooks!

My passion for sustainability began during my (short-lived) time in a Doctorate of Nursing Practice program, when I began researching my dissertation topic: Sustainability in Healthcare. The research continued way past the healthcare sector, and I realized that I wanted to do my part in preserving the planet for future generations. As I researched and studied sustainability, I realized that one of the most critical components of any sustainability plan is education. We need to teach the current and future generation about the importance of preserving the environment and give them the tools they need to make informed decisions.

As I searched for resources to help me teach sustainability to children, I was surprised by the lack of high-quality children's books on the subject. I visited my local library and found every picture book on climate change that I could. Every big children’s book series had, what felt like, an obligatory Earth Day title that felt uninspired and forced. I got to writing. A year and a half later we are here and I am so incredibly excited to share this book (perhaps series, hint hint), with the world.

I wanted to create a story that would inspire children and parents to take action to protect the environment. The book follows the journey of Sandy and Ray, who discover the impact humans are having on the coral reefs and, with the help of their dad and an underwater friend, save the coral reefs from bleaching. Throughout the story, they learn about climate activism, decreasing plastic use, and more.

Writing a children's book on sustainability was an incredibly rewarding experience. Even though I don't have children of my own yet, I know that the book will have a positive impact on future generations.