Little Land

Naturalistic cartoon depictions of Earth’s beginnings form the backdrop to Sudyka’s urgent call for conservation in this captivating story about planetary renewal and reciprocity. Starting in the distant past, the opening showcases a “little bit of land” that changes as the years progress, evolving from an aquatic landscape into a home for early humans. Natural forces such as fire occasionally alter the environment, but it’s humankind’s footprint, illustrations assert, that’s responsible for “tip, tip, tipping” the planet’s climate out of balance. Fluid gouache in blues and greens render prehistoric settings before giving way to sooty gray scenes of disruptive human development, until youthful stewards welcome back the sunny biodiversity that was initially present. Closing second-person lines encourage readers to reflect on the importance of caring for the planet. Human figures are portrayed with varying skin tones. Ages 4–8. (Apr.)