You Can Change the World by Lucy Bell
This bright book is packed with short, easy-to-read sections about some of the biggest environmental challenges we face - plastic bags, coffee cups, straws - and why they’re such a problem. It’s well balanced, pairing the bad news with inspiring case studies of people taking action, including lots of young Australians.
Alongside the facts, you’ll find ideas for things we can do (and avoid) in our own lives, plus simple recipes for homemade alternatives to common waste culprits. The book even includes a section on animal activism, making it a great fit not only for Planet Protectors but also for Animal Rescue Centre learners.
Activity ideas that link with our projects:
Planet Protectors: Try one of the homemade recipes (like beeswax wraps or natural cleaners) and include it in your child’s Planet Protectors HQ mission file.
Animal Rescue Centre: Explore the chapter on animal activism together, then create a short fact sheet or poster about how humans can help protect a chosen animal. Perhaps your local library would display it!
Overall, You Can Change the World is a motivating, accessible resource that leaves readers feeling empowered rather than overwhelmed. Check to see if your library has a copy!
Looking for projects that build on this?
If this kind of creative, low-pressure learning appeals, you might also like:
Zine Zone– for learners who want to create and share ideas through small, self-made booklets
The Rainbow Project – for learners who enjoy exploring personal stories and identity.
Nature’s Designers – for learners who are curious about how living things are designed, and want to explore nature through drawing, noticing, and gentle investigation
All three projects are designed to work in the same flexible way — with no busywork, and no pressure to produce a perfect final product.
