Books and experiences always make good gifts. While experiences may be tough to plan at this time, books can provide hours of entertainment (plus a bit of education too). These twelve books about nature and the outdoors are just a sampling of those published this year.
For Children
Morning, Sunshine! by Keely Parrack
A series of haiku accompanied by informative text introduces children to the nature just outside their doors
What’s This Tail Saying by Carolyn Combs
Children follow clues as they learn how to “read” animal tails
Wait, Rest, Pause: Dormancy In Nature by Marcie Flinchum Atkins
An exploration of the idea of dormancy; how living organisms handle environmental extremes to not only survive, but to thrive
The Book of Brilliant Bugs by Jess French
Kids will learn about all kinds of bugs and how they contribute to all of our well-being
Whooo Knew? The Truth About Owls by Annette Whipple
Readers learn facts about owls they didn’t know they needed to know
Snow Birds by Kirsten Hall
Poems about birds who don’t migrate, but instead can be found in snowy climates
A kids guide to the National Parks, it includes interesting facts about each park as well as what they can expect to see and do when visiting
Wildlife Ranger Action Guide:
Track, Spot & Provide Healthy Habitat for Creatures Close to Home by Mary Kay Carson
Hands-on activities allow kids to learn about wildlife and how to make the world a better place
For Adults
What It’s Like to Be a Bird: From Flying to Nesting, Eating to Singing–What Birds Are Doing, and Why by David Allen Sibley
A non-technical bird book that helps to explain the behaviors of those birds most frequently seen
I Haven’t Been Everywhere But It’s On My List
This camping journal to record where and when you sleep under the stars offers prompts to keep track of your 50 favorite (and not-so-favorite) sites
A camping logbook that includes a place to keep your supply lists and menu ideas as well as some resources for those rainy camping trips
For Parents
Growing Sustainable Together: Practical Resources for Raising Kind, Engaged, Resilient Children by Shannon Brescher Shea
A guidebook for parents who want to introduce kids to nature and environmental sustainability
