What This Book Is About
Most books about climate change leave young readers feeling helpless. This one is written to do the opposite. The Irish author and illustrator Oisín McGann sets out what climate change is, why it is happening and what can be done, in short sections with his own black-and-white illustrations, and he does it without pushing the reader into despair.
It begins with the story of humans and fire, and of how people have changed the world: from wildfires and glaciers to war and wilderness, from tiny ocean creatures to giant machines and young people protesting in cities. It sets the problem next to the millions of people already acting on it, and invites the reader to join them. The book was published in association with Friends of the Earth Ireland.
Available at Popular bookstores, Kinokuniya, and the Singapore National Library.
Why UWC Chose This Book
Environmental stewardship is a core UWC value, woven into everything from campus sustainability initiatives to the school's service learning programs. This book equips students with the scientific literacy to understand climate change at a systems level while maintaining the empowering, solutions-oriented tone that prevents eco-anxiety from becoming paralysis.
It is particularly relevant in Singapore, where students can observe the effects of climate change firsthand—rising sea levels threatening a low-lying island nation, intensifying tropical storms, and heat records broken year after year. The book transforms abstract global policy into personal action, which is exactly the bridge UWC wants its students to build.
Reading Level Guide
Too challenging at A1. Build foundations with graded readers or illustrated picture books first.
Right in the sweet spot. Accessible for strong A2 readers, comfortable for early B1.
An easy read at B2. Try The Radium Girls or The Giver for more challenge.
Other UWC Recommended Books for This Grade
Not sure if this book is right for your child? Take our free 30-minute English assessment to find their CEFR level, then choose books that match.