The beauty and marvels of the planet take center stage in a passionate picture book love letter to Earth written by Isabel Otter (This Love). Accompanied by illustrator Clara Anganuzzi's dramatic illustrations, the missive makes for a persuasive argument in favor of conservation and a delightful way to introduce the ideas to a young audience.
Otter's child protagonist, Tessa, has the same wild hair, light-brown complexion and rounded figure as her grandpa, who "had been an explorer once." Tessa, inspired by Grandpa's adventures, writes a letter telling the planet about all the miraculous sights she plans to see and all the exciting experiences she intends to savor: "kiss the butterflies"; "slide down desert dunes"; "join in with the hullabaloo of the birds and monkeys." The letter takes the audience through different biomes portrayed in dazzling colors by Anganuzzi's inviting and beguiling art. Anganuzzi (Violet's Tempest) uses the book's orientation to enhance Tessa's travels, flipping her illustrations from landscape to portrait and back again as the girl dives underwater or flies with birds.
Tessa concludes her letter by acknowledging the delicate nature of Earth. "You are full of such wonder, but you're fragile, and you need love and care." Rich back matter offers young readers ways they can provide assistance, as well as a template so they can write a letter of their own. Otter's charming picture book shows readers the vast and awe-inspiring planet while reminding them it's up to everyone to keep it safe and habitable. Dear Earth is a letter worth sharing. --Jen Forbus, freelancer