About

What begins as a monthly exchange of ideas between Earth and Room 5 grows into a lasting friendship, a school club with a surprising president, and –hopefully– lifelong Earth-smart habits.

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.

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.

FREE Resources & Lesson Plans

Lesson plans, resources, and more are available on Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT).

1. Digital Google Slide Activities
2. Friendly Letter Template
3. Reading and Phonics Book Activities
4. Seesaw: Dear Earth Choice Board

Downloadable DEAR EARTH letter template from Harper Collins and other free resources available on my Freebies for Teachers page.

Blog Features

• LitLinks by Patricia Newman features DEAR EARTH + #STEM letter writing activities for Ss of all ages.
• Vivian Kirkfield’s Perfect Picture Book Friday: DEAR EARTH: FROM YOUR FRIENDS IN ROOM 5
• Harper Collins Senior Designer Erica De Chavez shares insights into the creation of DEAR EARTH’s cover here.

Praise

“A well-thought-out presentation of an important environmental message.” — Kirkus

“This picture book is beautiful & important; let’s kickoff how to be an Earth Hero in January, and continue all year long!” - @LibrarianBookends

“I love the letters between Earth & Room 5 in Dear Earth… The illustrations are beautiful. My mind is racing with all of the things I can use this book for in the classroom! And how fun would it be to start an Earth Heroes Club with students?!?” - @Jenann4r, Ms. Rusin/ 2nd grade teacher

Awards & Recognition

New York State 2023 Charlotte Award Winner

Nominated for a CT Young Readers NUTMEG award 2024

A 2020-2021 Indie KIDS’ NEXT Selection

Dilys Evans Founder Award-winning illustrator Luisa Uribe’s gorgeous art for DEAR EARTH was featured in the Society of Illustrators 2020 Original Art Show