Review: The Story of Conservation

Catherine Barr’s “The Story of Conservation” is a lushly illustrated overview of human interaction with planet earth. It explores the positive ways people have worked with the natural environment as well as the ways humans have caused harm.

I liked that the story is well-balanced in that there isn’t a consistent message that human land use is bad. It makes clear that we have work to do to protect our planet, but does so with a message of hope rather than of doom. 

The illustrations enhance the story. Amy Husband does a great job with the rich, yet whimsical pictures that help tell the story. As a read aloud, it would be great to pause and have students describe what is happening in the illustrations.

This story is great for children who are interested in learning about human interactions with our planet. “The Story of Conservation” would also be a great way to introduce older students to the topic in an easy to understand way.

I received an advance review copy for free from NetGalley and Frances Lincoln Children’s Books, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Review: Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre

Yesterday, I saw “Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre” at a bookstore. The cover illustration alone was enough to make me pick it up and read. I love picture books that make a complex topic comprehensible. “Unspeakable” does this.

“Unspeakable” tells the tale of the Tulsa Race Massacre in poetic, yet child-friendly language. The lush illustrations add depth and additional emotion. The story ends on a hopeful note of reconciliation. There is additional information about the Tulsa Race Massacre at the end of the book that is great for adults and older kids. 

I would recommend this book for anyone looking for an introduction to the Tulsa Race Massacre. Carole Boston Weatherford (writer) and Floyd Cooper (illustrator) created an outstanding work. Read it today!