"Knights Unite": A Green Book Awards Recommended Read

Welcome to the blog! In this post, we're diving deep into a fantastic piece of children's literature that's making waves for all the right reasons. Laurel Colless's "Knights Unite" has earned a place on the podium as recommended reading for elementary schools as part of the National Green Book Awards. It’s a book that not only entertains but also educates and empowers young readers about crucial environmental issues. We’ll explore the book's themes, the author's background, and why it's so important for today's youth. So buckle up, and let's get started!

This blog post serves as an expansion of my conversation with Laurel Colless on The Authors Alley with Dori DeCarlo. In that episode, we discussed Laurel's passion for environmental advocacy, her journey as an author, and the impact she hopes to make through "Knights Unite." This post will delve deeper into these topics and provide additional insights into why this book is a must-read for children and educators alike.

Discovering 'Knights Unite'

"Knights Unite" is more than just a children's book; it's an engaging narrative that tackles significant environmental concerns in a way that's accessible and inspiring for young minds. The story follows a group of young knights who come together to address climate change, extreme weather, and plastic pollution. Through their adventures, readers learn about these critical issues and are encouraged to take action in their own communities.

The book stands out for its ability to blend entertainment with education. The characters are relatable, the plot is engaging, and the environmental messages are woven seamlessly into the story. This approach makes it easier for children to understand complex topics and motivates them to become environmental stewards. "Knights Unite" is not just about identifying problems; it's about finding solutions and empowering young readers to make a difference.

One of the key strengths of "Knights Unite" is its relevance to today's world. As environmental issues become increasingly pressing, it's crucial to educate the next generation about these challenges. This book provides a foundation for understanding climate change, pollution, and sustainability, equipping children with the knowledge and tools they need to address these issues in the future.

About Laurel Colless: Author and Climate Advocate

Laurel Colless is an award-winning Australian-New Zealand author with a strong background in sustainable business and journalism. Before dedicating herself to writing children's books, she spent 25 years working across Asia, the US, and Europe, focusing on sustainability and environmental issues. Her experiences in these diverse regions have shaped her perspective and fueled her passion for environmental advocacy.

Colless is also the founder of the Carbon Busters Club, a climate-science program for kids that combines storytelling with science education. This initiative reflects her commitment to empowering children to take the lead on big world problems. Through the Carbon Busters Club, Laurel provides resources and activities that help children learn about climate science and develop practical solutions.

In 2013, Colless became an Al Gore Climate Reality Leader, further solidifying her commitment to climate advocacy. This training equipped her with the knowledge and skills to effectively communicate about climate change and inspire action. Her dedication to environmental education is evident in her work, which seeks to inform, engage, and empower young people to become environmental leaders.

Laurel's diverse background and experiences have uniquely positioned her to write about environmental issues for children. Her expertise in sustainable business and journalism, combined with her passion for education, make her a powerful voice for change. "Knights Unite" is a testament to her dedication and her belief in the power of storytelling to inspire action.

The Core of 'Knights Unite': Themes and Messages

At its heart, "Knights Unite" explores several key themes related to environmental stewardship and responsibility. The book addresses climate change by illustrating its impact on weather patterns and ecosystems. Through engaging storytelling, children learn about the causes of climate change and the importance of reducing carbon emissions.

The issue of extreme weather is also central to the narrative. The knights face challenges brought about by severe storms, droughts, and other climate-related events. These experiences help children understand the real-world consequences of climate change and the need for adaptation and resilience.

Plastic pollution is another major focus of the book. The knights encounter the devastating effects of plastic waste on marine life and the environment. This prompts discussions about reducing plastic consumption, recycling, and finding sustainable alternatives. The book encourages children to take small but significant steps to combat plastic pollution in their daily lives.

Beyond these specific environmental issues, "Knights Unite" also promotes broader messages of teamwork, resilience, and empowerment. The knights work together to overcome challenges, demonstrating the power of collective action. They learn to adapt to changing conditions and find creative solutions to environmental problems. The book emphasizes that even young people can make a difference and that their actions matter.

The overarching message of "Knights Unite" is one of hope and possibility. Despite the daunting challenges posed by climate change and pollution, the book shows that positive change is possible. By educating and empowering young readers, Laurel Colless hopes to inspire a generation of environmental stewards who are committed to creating a sustainable future.

Why 'Knights Unite' Earned a Spot in the Green Book Awards

The National Green Book Awards recognize books that promote environmental stewardship and sustainability. "Knights Unite" was selected for this honor because of its exceptional contribution to children's literature and its effective communication of environmental themes. The book's ability to engage young readers while educating them about critical issues made it a standout choice.

The Green Book Awards committee praised "Knights Unite" for its clear and accessible explanations of complex environmental topics. The book's engaging narrative and relatable characters were also noted as strengths. The committee recognized the book's potential to inspire action and empower young readers to become environmental advocates.

Being recommended by the Green Book Awards provides "Knights Unite" with valuable recognition and visibility. It signals to educators, parents, and librarians that the book is a valuable resource for teaching children about environmental issues. This endorsement can help the book reach a wider audience and have a greater impact.

The Green Book Awards highlight the importance of environmental education and the role of literature in promoting sustainability. By recognizing books like "Knights Unite," the awards encourage authors and publishers to create more content that addresses environmental themes. This helps to raise awareness and inspire action across a broader audience.

In addition to its educational value, "Knights Unite" also meets the Green Book Awards' criteria for literary quality. The book is well-written, engaging, and thought-provoking. It offers a compelling narrative that resonates with young readers and leaves a lasting impression. This combination of educational content and literary merit makes "Knights Unite" a truly exceptional book.

Connecting with Laurel Colless and Her Work

If you're interested in learning more about Laurel Colless and her work, there are several ways to connect with her and explore her resources. Her website, LaurelColless.com, is a great place to start. There, you'll find information about her books, her work with the Carbon Busters Club, and her advocacy efforts.

You can also follow Laurel on social media to stay up-to-date on her latest projects and initiatives. She is active on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram, where she shares updates, articles, and insights related to environmental education and sustainability.

Laurel's books are available for purchase on her website and through major retailers like Amazon. By purchasing her books, you're not only supporting her work but also investing in valuable resources for children's education. Her books make excellent gifts for young readers and are a great addition to school and library collections.

If you're an educator or parent, consider incorporating Laurel's books and resources into your curriculum or home learning activities. "Knights Unite" and her other works provide engaging and informative content that can help children understand complex environmental issues and develop practical solutions. By working together, we can empower the next generation to become environmental stewards and create a sustainable future.

Support UnsilencedVoices.org

While we're talking about making a positive impact, I also want to highlight a cause that's close to my heart: UnsilencedVoices.org. This global 501(c)3 nonprofit empowers survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. It's crucial to support organizations like UnsilencedVoices.org, which provide essential resources and advocacy for those in need.

Just as "Knights Unite" empowers children to take action on environmental issues, UnsilencedVoices.org empowers survivors to reclaim their lives and find their voice. Both initiatives are about creating positive change and making the world a better place. By supporting UnsilencedVoices.org, you're helping to provide safety, support, and hope to survivors of violence.

There are many ways to support UnsilencedVoices.org, including making a donation, volunteering your time, or raising awareness about their work. Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a difference in the lives of survivors. Together, we can create a world where everyone is safe, respected, and empowered.

In addition to supporting UnsilencedVoices.org, I'd also like to thank Smith Sisters and the Sunday Drivers for providing the theme song for my podcast, "She is You." Their music adds a special touch to each episode and helps to amplify the voices of women in business and in life.

Call to Action: Engage and Share Your Thoughts

Now it's your turn to get involved! I encourage you to read "Knights Unite" with the young people in your life and discuss the environmental issues it raises. Talk about the challenges facing our planet and brainstorm ways to take action in your own communities. Every small step can make a big difference.

Share your thoughts and insights on social media using the hashtag #KnightsUnite. Let's create a conversation around environmental education and inspire others to get involved. Together, we can amplify the message of "Knights Unite" and create a wave of positive change.

I also invite you to connect with me on social media and share your feedback on this blog post and my podcast episode with Laurel Colless. You can find me on BlueSky, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. I love hearing from my listeners and readers and learning about the issues that matter most to you.

Finally, consider becoming a supporter of my podcast. Your contributions help me to continue creating content that educates, inspires, and empowers women in business and in life. You can find more information about supporting the podcast here.

Thank you for reading and engaging with this important topic. Together, we can make a difference!

In conclusion, "Knights Unite" by Laurel Colless is a must-read for children and educators alike. Its engaging narrative and clear communication of environmental themes make it a valuable resource for teaching young people about climate change, extreme weather, and plastic pollution. Laurel Colless's background as an author and climate advocate further enhances the book's credibility and impact.

I encourage you to listen to my conversation with Laurel Colless on The Authors Alley with Dori DeCarlo to gain even more insights into her work and the importance of environmental education. Together, we can empower the next generation to become environmental stewards and create a sustainable future.