Happy Perfect Picture Book Friday, dear friends. Yesterday was Thanksgiving – I feel blessed to be able to share my writing journey with all of you and I love sharing my favorite picture books also. And today’s story is one of them…it launches in just a few days…so you are getting a sneak peek right here – plus a chance to win a copy! This book is a tribute to teachers everywhere – another thing many of us are thankful for…great teachers!

DEAR EARTH…FROM YOUR FRIENDS IN ROOM 5

Written by Erin Dealey

Illustrated by Luisa Uribe

Published by HarperCollins (December 1, 2020)

Ages: 4-8

Themes

Synopsis: From Amazon:

“When the kids in Room 5 write to Earth asking what they can do to help save our planet, they are delighted to get a letter back. This beautiful picture book is a celebration of every child’s ability to connect with the environment and make a positive impact .

A monthly exchange of ideas between the kids and Earth becomes a lasting friendship in this affectionate story about how to be an Earth Hero, lyrically written by Erin Dealey and gorgeously illustrated by Dilys Evans Founder Award-winning illustrator Luisa Uribe.

Young readers will learn about environmental conservation, along with simple things they can do to help care for the planet—like recycling and reducing energy consumption. There is even a reversible jacket cover that features a poster printed on the inside with twelve months of Earth Hero activities. These fun and interactive activities will encourage children to help protect our planet year-round.

Dear Room 5,

Your letter arrived on the wind.

A whisper of hope in the night.

I’m thankful for helpers who care for their planet…“

Praise for DEAR EARTH: “A well-thought-out presentation of an important environmental message.” —Kirkus

To connect with author Erin Dealey or to find out more about her wonderful books: https://www.erindealey.com/

Why I love this book:

1. Fabulous unique concept – letters between Earth and a class – kids will love this and the content of the class letters feels very authentic.
2. Fantastic illustrations will keep kids engaged.
3. Wonderful lessons on environmental awareness and what each of us can do to help are seamlessly woven into the story.

RELATED ACTIVITIES:

Try one of these eco-friendly crafts here.

More info about DEAR EARTH: FROM YOUR FRIENDS IN ROOM 5 including a downloadable template for a letter your kids can write to the Earth: https://www.erindealey.com/books/dear-earth-from-your-friends-in-room-5/

Please remember to leave a comment below for a chance to win the giveaway: either a copy of DEAR EARTH or a picture book critique from Erin Dealey…and don’t forget that the way to insure the success of a book you love is to buy the book if you can, review the book, tell friends about the book, ask your local library to purchase copies of the book for their collection.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend. Please stay safe and well.

Next week I start my blog tour for FROM HERE TO THERE: Inventions That Changed the Way the World Moves. I’ll be visiting with Tara Lazar on Thursday and with Sandy Breuhl and Beth Anderson later in the month. And then in January and February, I’ll be visiting a bunch more blogs. If you haven’t checked out the Picture Book Palooza, please take a look – the money raised will go towards access and equity scholarships. And if you take a peek at the first panel on the top left, perhaps you’ll see someone you recognize. I’m on the 21st Century Nonfiction panel along with Alice Faye Duncan, Nancy Churnin, and Sue Heavenrich – we’ll be moderated by Carol Kim – and I am totally excited for it!

And for more wonderful picture book reviews and activities, please hop over to Susanna Hill’s Perfect Picture Book Friday linkup.