Written by: Nyasha Williams

Illustrated by: Sof’ya Glushko

For ages: 4-8 years 

Language: English

Topics Covered: Environment, POC-Centric Narratives, Environmentalism, Activism, Littering, Sustainability, Ocean Life, Pint-Sized Professor.

Summary: 

For #sweetsandsocialjustice we’re addressing climate justice with a book all about ocean pollution!  The treat I made to go with it is some Italian butter cookies, recipe courtesy of @smittenkitchen.

What’s the Commotion in the Ocean? is a short and sweet book telling the reader about the ocean and how it is affected by pollution.  The narrator is a lovely Black mermaid that leads the reader on a journey to see different aspects of pollution and overfishing, as well as oil spills.  After the reader learns about the various environmental atrocities taking place, the mermaid has some suggestions on how a family can be more environmentally friendly.  There is also a list of ocean facts and a website for more information.

I really enjoyed the diverse characters, especially POC families being seen outdoors! This book is a great primer for teaching young kids about being sustainable and kind to nature, and I’m really glad that the tips are also included in the back.  This helps to engage slightly older readers.

This book was sent to us by the author, but all opinions are our own!

About the Author & the Illustrator:

You can find Nyasha’s Instagram here! You can visit her website here!