AUGUST 2022 - AudioFile
Young listeners will be drawn to the audible smile in narrator Greer Morrison’s voice as she shares the wonders of humankind and the importance of working together. As the audiobook opens, the short, reflective messages delivered in Morrison’s warm voice are paired with calming outdoor sounds that seamlessly transition from one to the next. The exciting roar of an ascending spaceship is used to evoke humanity’s ability to explore; animal sounds are softly blended to portray the fragile creatures on Earth that need human protection. These fun, immersive sound effects will appeal to the youngest of listeners. Morrison’s friendly tone imparts a deeply inspirational message from environmentalist McKibben worth revisiting. Audiobook lovers of all ages will take away something new with each listen. J.E.C. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine
School Library Journal
★ 01/21/2022
PreS-Gr 2—A simple and beautiful picture book. Using short phrases and sentences, such as "When we work together, we can do incredible things," the author shares how teamwork and cooperation will help save the planet from climate change. McKibben does not spell out in detail what needs to be done to save the Earth; instead, he offers basic suggestions. This is one of the strongest aspects of the book, as it allows readers to expand on these ideas. Simple phrases that share powerful ideas are highlighted with clear, realistic drawings that expand on the concepts. For instance, one phrase discusses how communication helps people keep track of one another, while the illustration shows a guide explaining and sharing cave drawings. The images, with bright colors and realistic and diverse people engaged in many different activities, are particularly compelling, and, in some cases, say so much more than the words. The text will probably need explanation and detail from adults sharing this book with children, for example, in story hours. VERDICT Optimistic and powerful through its simplicity, this book highlights communication and shared hopes for the future of the Earth.—Susan Lissim
AUGUST 2022 - AudioFile
Young listeners will be drawn to the audible smile in narrator Greer Morrison’s voice as she shares the wonders of humankind and the importance of working together. As the audiobook opens, the short, reflective messages delivered in Morrison’s warm voice are paired with calming outdoor sounds that seamlessly transition from one to the next. The exciting roar of an ascending spaceship is used to evoke humanity’s ability to explore; animal sounds are softly blended to portray the fragile creatures on Earth that need human protection. These fun, immersive sound effects will appeal to the youngest of listeners. Morrison’s friendly tone imparts a deeply inspirational message from environmentalist McKibben worth revisiting. Audiobook lovers of all ages will take away something new with each listen. J.E.C. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine
Kirkus Reviews
2022-03-30
Renowned environmentalist McKibben reminds youth of the importance of unity.
In a world divided by borders, ideals, and so much more, we all live on the same planet. If there is any hope to save it from destruction, we need to work together: “The human game is a team sport.” McKibben extols the power of cooperation: “When we work together, we can do incredible things.” Each page shows an example of the possibilities. Lights blink on at night after a day of installing solar panels (with wind turbines in the background), trees are replanted after a forest fire, and two people help tiny sea turtles along their journey by carrying them to the water. McKibben then shifts perspectives, focusing on the motivation for these actions. An undercurrent of love runs through all: “It’s love that lets each of us see we’re not the most important thing on Earth, and makes us okay with that.” All scenarios are enacted by a racially diverse group, with Lewis’ illustrations radiating a warm glow that highlights the hopeful message. While the text, adapted from McKibben’s adult title Falter (2019), is sincere, it does read a bit disjointedly, and though it’s straightforward, some of the ideas are a bit complex for younger readers. Full-page author and illustrator notes add personal reflections. (This book was reviewed digitally.)
A message told simply enough for young ones but best internalized by an older crowd. (Picture book. 4-8)
