ETHICOOL PRODUCT INFORMATION
APRIL’S WINDOW
Described as captivating, mesmerizing, and the 'ultimate oasis of calm' this stunning book is a must-read for curious little ones the world over.
What is this picture book about?
Wandering the streets of her local village during the pandemic lockdown, April develops an unwavering curiosity for what is happening in the windows of her neighbouring homes. Like a short film depicting the fascinating lives of others, gently framed by the unique architecture of their homes, April's Window is a visual and literary masterpiece.
Why do we need a kid’s book about curiosity?
To be curious is to grow, to learn, to be inspired; to never understand the feelings of boredom or idle-mindedness. This is the world of the child, and curiosity is its lifeblood. To enrich the life of children is to fuel and ignite their curiosity in every single facet of the world around them.
April's Window was written to do just this. There is not a child that has read this story and walked away without questions and intrigue at the pictures they explored and the words that so poetically adorned them. This gorgeous picture book about curiosity strikes right into the heart of what Ethicool Books does best: crafting kids' books that change the world.
- Author: Georgina Le Flufy
- Illustrator: Francisco Fonseca
- Themes: Curiosity, Pandemic, Essential Workers, Gratitude
- Recommended ages: for 0 - 6yrs old
ELLA AND THE EXPLODING FISH
Ella and the Exploding Fish is a humorous story that shares an important message about personal responsibility and what's best for our marine creatures. A children's book where the surprises just keep coming.
What is this picture book about?
Join Ella and her sister, Ava, as they discover the joy of caring for a marine creature. Yet it isn’t all joy, as the sisters soon learn. Their beloved fish appear to thrive in only one type of environment ... but why are both fish getting bigger?
This light‐hearted and genuinely surprising book will keep you and your little ones on their toes until the very end! Designed to be both humorous and moving, it also teaches an important lesson about personal responsibility.
- Author: Teigan Margetts
- Illustrator: Alvin Mulyono
- Themes: Ethical treatment of pets and animals, Ocean Waste, Plastic
- Recommended ages: for 0 ‐ 6yrs old
JUST LIKE ME
Do you want to raise a child that makes friends all over the world, regardless of their differences, a child that knows it's our unique traits that make us so special? Then this gorgeous book is for you. A precious little book about friendship and equality.
What is this picture book about?
When Polar Bear wanders out onto the ice to play, she spots a rather strange looking bear. Patchy and blotchy, and shivering cold, this bear looks oh so lost among the freezing ice! She is the same size as little Polar Bear, furry like Polar Bear, and yet she's also completely different. Well, then, thinks Polar Bear, what a perfect recipe for fun and friendship - and so begins their incredibly cute adventure!
Why do we need a kids’ book about equality?
Have you ever noticed how young children will happily play with just about anyone? How they can form friendships easily, without judgement or prejudice? It's beautiful to watch, isn't it?
At some point in their development, though, many children form views that certain people should be treated differently; that their skin colour, their gender, or the way they speak or act, somehow makes them awkward or different in a negative way. Just Like Me is the story that helps little ones celebrate their differences, value their unique traits, and champion equality for all. We write about equality because we care about equality
- Author: Disha Bose O'Shea
- Illustrator: Eva Rodriguez
- Themes: Equality, Diversity, Race
- Recommended ages: for 0 - 4yrs old
MY DADDY’S SHADOW
Every now and then, a children's book comes along that changes everything. This is that book. An adorable and heartfelt picture book about our darkest shadow, depression, told gently, endearingly, and with touching warmth.
What is this picture book about?
Outside, the world is bursting with colour, light and wonder. But inside the house, Daddy has a big secret. A dark shadow is following him around, and it just won't leave him alone.
Enchanting poetry, combined with otherworldly watercolour illustrations, this powerful and uplifting book is for anyone who has ever been overcome by sadness or witnessed the dark shadow of depression take hold. Above all, it's for those who know that love and support can make all the difference.
Why do we need a children's book about depression?
One in four adults will experience mental illness at some point in their lives. Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses, but also one of the most misunderstood ‐ and often, invisible.
For children, depression can be confusing, sad and a little frightening. Children often (mistakenly) believe that they are the cause of their parent’s, grandparent’s or carer's sadness. This beautiful book shines a light on the illness that affects so many of us, and helps little ones understand it in a way that is meaningful and accessible to them.
- Author: Riley M. Rodgers
- Illustrator: Sid Meireles
- Themes: Depression, Anxiety, Mental Health
- Recommended ages: for 0 ‐ 6yrs old
MY RAINFOREST CLASSROOM
When the light goes out, the forest creeps in. Join little Charlie on a wild and wondrous adventure of a different kind: through nature's classroom. A delightful tale for nature and animal lovers of all ages.
What is this picture book about?
Little Charlie curls up into bed... but the night is not quite what it seems! Guided by the world’s most adorable old owl, Charlie ventures through the forests and oceans of yesteryear. Surfing on top of his bed, he drinks in the beauty of all that came before him, as the vines and animals of the rainforest take over every corner of the world.
An absolute delight for the senses, this imaginative story will have your little one’s mind racing about our precious planet and the incredible creatures within it. This is the ultimate book for any little adventurer!
- Author: Stuart French
- Illustrator: Alvin Mulyono
- Themes: Sustainability, Extinction, Animal Conservation
- Recommended ages: for 0 ‐ 6yrs old
REMEMBERING MOTHER NATURE
This is THE picture book that has appealed to tens of thousands of children's hearts the world over, inspiring them to appreciate everything that makes our planet so special. A heart‐warming kids' book about nature.
What is this picture book about?
Did you know that Mother Nature's home ‐ our beautiful planet ‐ is more than 4.5 billion years old? And in the years gone by, our planet was full of so many colours and so much wonder. But recently, Mother Nature has started to feel a little tired and more than a little worried ... that was, until YOU came along.
Described as one the most important children's books to be released this century, this uplifting, exuberant and empowering book encourages all little ones to do their bit to help protect everything that makes our planet so special.
- Author: Stuart French
- Illustrator: Alvin Mulyono
- Themes: Mother Nature, Sustainability, Deforestation
- Recommended ages: for 0 ‐ 6yrs old
SAMSON C. TURTLE
Join the wise and adorable Samson C. Turtle for an underwater adventure of the most important variety. Life in the ocean can be anxiety inducing in more ways than one. But at 102 years young, Samson might just have the answer...
What is this picture book about?
Samson C. Turtle is one of the most wise and wonderful creatures in the sea and he's keen to share just why. At a sprightly 102 years young, he's learnt a thing or two about how to manage fear and anxiety ... but what might that be?
Whatever it is, his friends certainly need it. From meeting a whale whose eyes are glistening with tears, to a great salmon fish who can't overcome his fears, Samson's friends are plagued by something that only he has the answer to. What is it? And what sage advice can Samson offer?
This visually stunning yet naturally calming book is perfect for any little one who has experienced anxiety and wants to understand how to best address it.
Why do we need a children's book about childhood anxiety?
Childhood anxiety is, unfortunately, very common, and also on the rise with little ones globally. Team Ethicool spoke to psychologist and child wellbeing expert Dr. Maxine Therese to find out everything parents need to know about childhood anxiety, including what causes it, what the symptoms might be and importantly, how to help a child who has it.
- Author: Clare Flory
- Illustrator: Lily Uivel
- Themes: Anxiety, Fear, Calm
- Recommended ages: for 0 ‐ 6yrs old
SIMON AND THE SAD SALAD
Who doesn't love a class party!? No one. Well, except for Simon. But the reasons why aren't what you'd expect...
Simon and the Sad Salad is a touching story about bullying, disadvantage and what we can all do to help those less fortunate than ourselves. A kids' book that is essential reading in a world where inequality is everywhere we look.
What is this picture book about?
Join Simon, and the superhero of the day, Asha, as they celebrate at their annual class party. Everyone brings something delicious and extravagant to the party, but not Simon. Asha heads off on a noble journey to discover why … and what she finds changes how she behaves, once and for all.
This evocative and moving book encourages empathy, understanding, and ultimately sharing and caring in children, and all who read it. A stark reminder of the challenges some children face at school, this story shows us what we can all do about it.
- Author: Teigan Margetts
- Illustrator: Alvin Mulyono
- Themes: Bullying, Disadvantage, Poverty, Friendship
- Recommended ages: for 0 - 6yrs old
THE DAY WE WENT TO AWAY
Not all is what it seems in the dystopian world of "Away." Why? Because it's where all of our things go when we throw them away. The Day We Went to Away is a magical, but profound wake‐up call for all of us.
What is this picture book about?
When we throw things "Away", just where do they go? Haven't you ever wondered if there is, in fact, a place called Away? Oh, yes, we can tell you - there certainly is!
Join us in this captivating children's adventure book, supported by the mind - bendingly beautiful illustrations of Madison Pollard, as we follow one little girl's boundless journey to the distant land of Away.
Journey through the gorgeous wilds of the most hidden corners of our planet, in search of the shaded world of Away, where things are not quite what they seem...
Who is this book for?
Adventure‐lovers chasing a children’s book about protecting the planet's resources, as well as its most special places, will be immediately drawn to this gorgeous story. Even if you'd rather cosy‐up by the open fire at home than rug-up near the campfire on your adventure holiday, you'll still be able to bathe in the beautifully rhyming prose and endearing illustrations of this one of a kind picture book.
- Author: Stuart French
- Illustrator: Madison Pollard
- Themes: Recycling, Sustainability, Adventure
- Recommended ages: for 0 ‐ 6yrs old
THE WORLD UNDER WINGS
A truly unique perspective ‐ quite literally - on the state of planet earth, observed through the eyes of the artic tern. This is a fascinating kids' book about the migration of the arctic tern and its efforts to uplift the world.
What is this picture book about?
When the Terns’ Arctic home starts melting away, they set out on an incredible adventure to learn how to save it. On their journey they’ll soar through the skies, overseas and under stars, crossing deserts and forests and meeting endangered animals along the way.
But on a planet in peril, is anywhere safe for them to call home?
Inspired by the Arctic Tern’s amazing real-life migration, this book is a great way to learn about the problems facing the planet and what we can do to help.
- Author: Tom Gregory
- Illustrator: Tom Gregory
- Themes: Sustainability, Climate Change, Environmentalism
- Recommended ages: for 2 - 10yrs old
TOM’S TEARS
When Tom hurts himself skateboarding, Oliver rushes over to comfort him, but notices something strange. Tom should be crying, but he isn't... A kids' book that celebrates how beautiful and special our emotions really are.
What is this picture book about?
Join Tom and his best friend, Oliver, as they go on an adventure to rediscover Tom’s tears … and the more sinister reason why he’s lost them in the first place.
This moving and poignant book strikes right at the heart of how we talk to children about their emotions and particularly, who can show them and how. Like a warm hug you didn’t know you needed, this beautiful story will help you rediscover your own tears … as well as Tom’s!
- Author: Teigan Margetts
- Illustrator: Alvin Mulyono
- Themes: Gender Equality, Masculinity, Friendship, Emotions
- Recommended ages: for 0 ‐ 6yrs old
UNCLE MARLOW’S MACHINE
Henry heads off to his uncle's farm, leaving behind a pollution-choked city. His uncle is building something special, you see...
Uncle Marlow's Machine is the picture storybook that the next generation needs, wants and deserves. It's high time we talked about climate change. A kids' book that celebrates the wonderful things we can do to halt climate change.
What is this picture book about?
Join little Henry as he heads off on a journey to visit his wacky uncle at a farm far, far away. When Henry finally arrives, he discovers something incredible. Uncle Marlow’s been building a secret machine! But what is it? And why don’t the city people like it?
Infused with a touch of satire and a lot of goodwill, this is the story you need to be reading to your little ones to protect our climate future. This beautiful book will be remembered in decades to come as the awakening we all needed.
- Author: Stuart French
- Illustrator: Alvin Mulyono
- Themes: Climate Change, Pollution, Green Energy
- Recommended ages: for 0 ‐ 10yrs old
WATERMELON PIP
Watermelon was sassy little Pip's favourite food in the whole world. And she didn't like to share it with anyone. But when the watermelon supply ran out, Pip had to learn to improvise. And then she had to learn to share the fruits of her labour! An utterly gorgeous kids' book about sustainability and sharing.
What is this picture book about?
Blue-eyed Pip is juicy‐sweet but mightily sassy too! She eats watermelon for breakfast, lunch and tea, and won’t share her watermelon with anyone. But one day, the watermelon supply dries up.
And, so begins one of the most beautiful endings to one of the most heart warming children's picture books you're ever likely to read.
Why do we need a kids’ book about sustainability?
It's so easy for our little ones to develop behaviours of over-consumption these days. After all, there is a whole world of material things at their fingertips, literally just a button-click away. It's so easy to buy something here and throw it away there, all without thinking about the consequences.
But what if we taught the joys of becoming self-sufficient? What if we could encourage our little tots to grow their own juicy fruits? And, even more, what if we could inspire them to share with others and relish in the feeling of generosity?
I think we can all do this. And that's why I wrote Watermelon Pip, a story I'm deeply proud of, and a truly gorgeous introduction to sharing and sustainability for the world's children. We write about sustainability because we care about sustainability
- Author: Sharna Carter
- Illustrator: Stella Mongodi
- Themes: Sustainable Food Production, Home Growing, Waste, Sharing
- Recommended ages: for 0 - 6yrs old
WHEN GRANDMA WAS THE MOON
A book that will bring a tear to your eye for all the right reasons. Poetic, raw and heartfelt, When Grandma Was the Moon helps little ones everywhere understand that a loved one may be gone, but they're still here in so many special ways. A heart- warming kids' book about death and loss.
What is this picture book about?
Gazing from an elevated window above the cityscape, a child stares into the warmly lit windows of the neighbouring apartments. Anchored above the rows of civilisation is the wise but weathered stare of the moon. Is their Grandma up there? Indeed, she is, and little ones will let their imagination take flight as they wander through the endearing world that their precious grandparent calls home.
Why do we need a kids’ book about death?
Talking about death with our children, especially if we ourselves are grieving, is one of the most challenging tasks for parents and carers. What should we say? What shouldn't we say? Should we say nothing? Do children even understand what death is? Team Ethicool recently spoke to clinical psychologist Dr. Bec Jackson about how to talk to children about death, what they actually understand about it, and how to help them process it in their own unique way.
- Author: Stuart French
- Illustrator: Madison Pollard
- Themes: Celebrating Life, Death, Loss of a Loved One
- Recommended ages: for 0 ‐ 9yrs old
