This Is the Earth

K-Gr 3—This noteworthy picture book—a mix of verse, paintings, history, and environmental science—demonstrates the impact humans have had upon Earth. The book opens by describing land that is "fertile" and "alive" with rivers "streaming with fish." Soon, Earth begins to show the effects of industrialization. Roads and buildings cover the view of land and sky, garbage piles up in landfills, and pipes drain wastewater and muck into seas. Yet with a surprising page turn, readers learn of a brighter possibility—one in which acts of respect and caring for our planet help us live in harmony with nature. Simple actions such as recycling, using less water, and turning off lights when they aren't needed are presented as choices children can make to help improve the situation. The text is written entirely in verse, making the book a solid option for a read-aloud or for children to present as readers' theater. Minor's detailed watercolor spreads strongly support the writing by emphasizing Earth's natural beauty, the effects of industrialization on the environment, and the bright outcomes of treating the natural world with respect. The endpapers, which depict an illustrated version of "Earthrise" (a photograph of Earth taken from space by Apollo 8 astronaut William Anders), reinforce the book's positive message. An authors' note and an illustrator's note highlight the simple steps kids can take to go green.