In this digital age where screens and devices are occupying more and more of our time, Leah Payne’s book is an important reminder to find media-life balance by spending more time in nature. This book supports lessons in digital citizenship around limiting screen time and being more intentional about spending time outdoors to improve mental, physical, and emotional health. Reflecting on these important factors in our overall health also supports the Physical and Health Education curriculum, wherein students learn about the importance of daily physical activity, the interconnection of living a healthy lifestyle and positive well-being, and how personal choices influence our health.

Leah Payne offers many suggestions of outdoor activities for students and discusses the benefits of learning from the great outdoors. This book embraces Indigenous principles of learning and ways of knowing by recognizing that humans are a part of nature and reminding us that we are not separate from it—we are all connected.

Other End Matter: Glossary, resources, teacher’s resource
Images: Colour photographs
Bibliography: No
Index: Yes

Evaluator: Shannon S., School Librarian, BC Books for Schools

Leah Payne is a writer, editor and mother. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communication from Simon Fraser University and a master’s degree in library and information studies (MLIS) from the University of British Columbia. She is the author of Less Is More: Join the Low-Waste Movement in the Orca Footprints series. Leah lives in Vancouver, British Columbia, where she loves spending time in nature with her family.

Leah Payne's profile page

“Gives succinct, interesting explanations of topics related to humanity’s connection with nature…Leaves readers with fun, inspiring ways to get off their screens and go outside.”

Booklist

“Gives readers an incredible amount of information…This informative book will inspire young readers as well as adults around them to respect nature and to find ways to learn from and enjoy time spent outdoors.”

Children's Literature Comprehensive Database (CLCD)

“The text is visually striking…This book should appeal to readers interested in or curious about the outdoors and could lead to deeper engagement or activism.”

School Library Journal (SLJ)

“Payne argues that humans are part of nature and should be engaging with the natural world more often and more effectively…Informative and likely to spur readers to forge a stronger bond with the natural world.”

Kirkus Reviews

“Emphasizes the importance of connecting with nature and the many benefits of doing so. Highly Recommended.”

CM: Canadian Review of Materials

“A compendium of resources for kids who are looking to develop their relationship with the natural world in a positive way.”

Canadian Children's Book Centre (CCBC) Canadian Children’s Book News