The Earth is a big place to keep clean; but even little steps help complete the task. This is the rationale behind “The Earth, The Alphabet and Me,” a book designed to help even the youngest of kids to adopt an eco-friendly mindset and start taking care of the environment.
Local sisters Jenny Donaldson, an art educator, and Christine Pesout, a corporate communications consultant, created the book by combining their talents and interests. “We’ve been talking about writing something for a long time,” says Donaldson, “and this topic is one we have both been passionate about for many years. I’ve worked with children of different ages and know they are both eager to be involved in a cause and capable of doing so.”
The two chose an easy-to-follow alphabetical and rhyming pattern to share 26 tips that children of preschool through elementary age can adopt and share with their friends and families. Original illustrations are collages made from leftover wallpaper scraps, with an emphasis on interesting, organic textures. Some activities outlined in the book can be accomplished independently, allowing kids to get started right away on their new mission, rather than waiting on help from an adult. Others do require some supervision and support.
“It’s great to be a part of empowering kids, and to help them become aware of and take care of their environment,” says Pesout. “Taking one or two regular actions when you’re young can lead to a lifelong accumulation of choices in a certain direction, and of course, we like helping to influence the positive ones.”
One of the main goals of the book is to show the variety of ways one can help. “It can be overwhelming when you think about all that needs to be done,” says Donaldson. “We want children to realize that even making small changes to their daily habits can have a big impact over time. For example, turning off the faucet while brushing teeth can save 8 gallons of water per day, which amounts to over 2900 gallons a year. When kids hear this, they feel empowered!”
“The Earth, The Alphabet and Me” can be purchased at https://www.etsy.com/shop/Unboxedart. Enter coupon code HPlanet14 to receive 10% off your order. Activity guides/projects are available at www.unboxedart.com. The author and illustrator are also available to read the book and provide hands on activities in a classroom setting. Follow them at www.facebook.com/unboxedarts.