Today is David Attenborough’s 100th birthday. His voice is synonymous with everything to do with our natural world, and so all of my Friday Library Recommendations celebrate him and the amazing life that fillls our planet.
My first choice is Little People, BIG DREAMS: David Attenborough. This beautifully told biography introduces children to one of the most recognisable voices on our planet. Part of the much‑loved Little People, BIG DREAMS series, this book traces David’s journey from a curious child collecting fossils and specimens to a world‑famous broadcaster and passionate protector of the natural world.
Young readers will love discovering how David spent his childhood surrounded by books, animals and ideas, creating his own miniature museum and dreaming of life close to nature. The story gently shows how his curiosity led him to study science and zoology, before finding the perfect way to share his love of animals through television. Along the way, children learn that caring deeply about the world around us can truly make a difference.
The stylish, quirky illustrations are full of warmth and personality, making this an engaging read for both independent readers and shared storytime. Extra facts at the back, including a timeline and real photographs, add depth and encourage further discussion.
This inspiring non‑fiction picture book is ideal for nurturing curiosity, environmental awareness and big dreaming. A thoughtful and uplifting read for children who love animals, nature, and asking questions about the world they live in.
My next choice is Dear Earth by Isabel Otter, a glorious celebration of the power of imagination, and the wonders of our planet while skillfully highlighting it’s fragility.
Through her letter to Earth, Tessa takes us on a journey through some of the wide and varied habitats that cover our planet, meeting a menagerie of creatures, large and small along the way.
The mix of beautifully simple, and mesmerising, intricately detailed illustrations by Clara Anganuzzi carry you along with Tessa’s excitement for the amazing places her imagination takes her, recalling the stories her Grandad has told her of his adventures.
The ending is a gentle call to spread the word about saving the planet we call home. With information on the damage we are doing, and what we can do to help our planet, this is a wonderful book that deserves a place in every school. It’s versatility for classroom use, beyond the joy of sharing, is huge.
And finally, I’ve picked Nature Is The Answer: A Toolkit for Eco-Positivity by Chris Packham. This thoughtful and empowering book by Chris Packham speaks directly to children who feel worried about the future of our planet, and gently reminds them that they are not alone. Many young people experience eco‑anxiety, and this book does a wonderful job of naming those feelings, validating them, and turning concern into calm, purposeful action.
Chris draws on his own experiences as a naturalist to show that while climate change can feel overwhelming, nature itself can be a source of comfort, hope and strength. Throughout the book, complex ideas are explained clearly and sensitively, helping children understand what is happening in the world without feeling frightened or helpless.
Children are offered simple, science‑backed ways to manage anxious thoughts, alongside advice on activism, navigating social media, and spotting misinformation. Each chapter also includes engaging nature‑based activities, mindfulness exercises and creative tasks, encouraging children to reconnect with the natural world in joyful, hands‑on ways.
Perfect for our older readers, this book is an uplifting guide for children who care deeply about the planet and want to make a positive difference. A reassuring, inspiring read for both children and families.
Happy reading!
