7 inspiring kids' books to celebrate sustainability this Book Week
Book Week 2025 kicks off on 16 August, and it’s the perfect time to introduce your little ones to sustainability thinking through powerful storytelling. Whether you're a parent, carer, or grandparent, reading together is a simple, joyful way to inspire curiosity about the environment and create lifelong habits of sustainability.
Here are 7 standout books to add some sustainability to your bookshelf this Book Week, featuring themes like biodiversity, design, First Nations knowledge, and the wonders of the natural world.
One Little Dung Beetle
by Rhiân Williams
This vibrant picture book proves that even the smallest creatures can have a big impact. Follow a dung beetle's journey and discover the important role insects play in our ecosystem. A fun way to open conversations about the hidden heroes of nature.
Spiro
by Anna McGregor
Spiro’s formula for spidery success? 11% hunger to succeed (or just plain hunger), 34% trying again and again… and again, 53% giving it one more shot, and 2% spider silk. A hilarious and charming tale of one spider’s determined quest for a decent meal.
Afloat
by Freya Blackwood, text by Kirli Saunders
In this gentle and powerful story, an Elder guides a child along changing waterways, sharing First Nations knowledge and gathering community as they go. Afloat uses the art of weaving as a metaphor for resilience, connection, and hope in a time of climate crisis.
We Live in a Bus
by Dave Petzold
A celebration of simple living, this upbeat story follows a family who chooses life on the road. It gently introduces children to minimalism, sustainability, and making mindful lifestyle choices.
Design & Building on Country
by Alison Page & Paul Memmott
An inspiring non-fiction read for older kids, this book explores how Aboriginal knowledge and sustainable design come together to care for Country. A brilliant way to deepen understanding of land, culture, and future-focused thinking.
Flora: Australia’s Most Curious Plants
by Tania McCartney
Packed with fascinating facts and stunning botanical illustrations, Flora is a celebration of Australia’s weird and wonderful plants. It sparks a love for native biodiversity and makes botany fun for all ages.
I am a Magpie, I am a Currawong
by Bridget Farmer
Told through the voices of two iconic birds, this lyrical book explores habitat, identity, and the sounds of the bush. A beautiful way to connect kids with the rich tapestry of Australian birds.
Not sure if your child’s school is part of the ResourceSmart Schools program?
ResourceSmart Schools is an award-winning Victorian Government program that assists schools to embed sustainability in everything they do. The program is aligned to Sustainability Victoria’s goal to build momentum in communities as we work toward net zero.
The program provides practical support to schools to reduce resource use, make cost savings, integrate sustainability into the curriculum and share learnings beyond the school gate.
Discover more or register your interest below.
