The Mess That We Made -- Michelle Lord, Hardcover

The Mess That We Made explores the environmental impact of trash and plastic on the ocean and marine life, and it inspires kids to do their part to combat pollution. Simple, rhythmic wording builds to a crescendo ("This is the mess that we made. These are the fish that swim in the mess that we made.") and the vibrant digital artwork captures the disaster that is the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Children can imagine themselves as one of the four multi-ethnic occupants of the little boat surrounded by swirling plastic in the middle of the ocean, witnessing the cycle of destruction and the harm it causes to plants, animals, and humans. The first half of the book portrays the growing magnitude of the issue, and the second half rallies children and adults to make the necessary changes to save our oceans. Facts about the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, ocean pollution, and how kids can help are included in the back matter.

Author: Michelle Lord
Publisher: Flashlight Press
Published: 01/01/2020
Pages: 32
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 1.15lbs
Size: 10.10h x 10.20w x 0.50d
ISBN: 9781947277144
Audience: Ages 4-8

Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 11/15/2019
School Library Journal 01/01/2020 pg. 58
Publishers Weekly 03/09/2020

About the Author
Michelle Lord has written several books for children, including A Song For Cambodia, Nature Recycles, and Animal School: What Class Are You?, which received a starred review from Kirkus. Julia Blattman has worked as a visual development artist for animated feature films and Disney mobile games. This is her first picture book.