My Friend Earth

Author: Patricia McLaclan

Illustrator: Francesca Sanna

Publisher: Chronicle Books

Summary

Join Earth as she wakes from her long winter slumber, greeting the new season with warmth. With a gentle touch, she checks in on all her creations, ready to nurture everything she’s brought to life. Listen to the joyful buzz of the bees and the rhythmic spinning of the spiders. Watch as Earth lovingly waters the land, tending to the trees, plants, and creatures with patience and care. 

Some seasons bring bountiful harvests, vibrant blossoms, and new life, while others see Earth’s touch grow a bit too forceful, with storms, droughts, or harsh conditions that challenge her creations. Yet, Earth’s intentions remain rooted in deep care. And in this tender tale, readers are reminded that together, we will weather through any storm.

Review

This book beautifully captures the essence of the seasons through vivid, sensory language that allows readers to truly experience the world around them. Even in moments of destruction, Earth is personified with a tender and nurturing touch. There is no malice in her actions—only an overwhelming desire to care and protect. At times, her strength becomes a bit too much, a reminder that great power can sometimes overflow. Yet, even when her force is intense, it’s always driven by love and the instinct to nurture, demonstrating that her actions, though sometimes excessive, come from a place of deep care.

This book is a great introduction into weather patterns, changing seasons, and animal habitats. Little ones will also enjoy the lift-a-flap on the first and last pages to reveal the little creatures cocooned within Earth’s embrace. There’s a variety of animals and landscapes depicted in colorful and patterned illustrations, with a heartwarming message of remembering to care for others through the seasons of change.