Plants: A World Without
illustrations by
What’s inside...
A speculative exploration into a world where plants never existed, affecting biodiversity, human culture, and the global environment. The narrative follows a group of scientists as they embark on a journey to reverse-engineer photosynthesis. This intriguing scenario is part of a series that delves into what life would be like without essential elements such as sunlight, rain, plants, animals, and even basic amenities like toilets.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-7
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think our world would look like if there were no plants?
How do you think animals and humans might be affected if plants disappeared?
Can you think of some ways plants help us every day?
If you were a plant, what kind would you be and why?
What can we do to help take care of the plants around us?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to use their imagination and think creatively while discussing the questions. Listen actively to their responses, and show enthusiasm about their ideas. Relate the discussion back to the book by pointing out specific illustrations or content that ties into their answers. Reinforce the importance of plants and their role in the ecosystem to nurture a sense of responsibility towards the environment.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of biodiversity
Explanation: The narrative unveils different plant species and their roles in ecosystems, demonstrating the intricate balance of nature.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and protect various plant species in their local environment, understanding their impact on ecological health.
Example Lesson: Interdependence of living organisms
Explanation: The story illustrates how plants interact with other living creatures, emphasizing symbiotic relationships.
Real-World Application: Kids can observe and nurture relationships in their own lives, understanding that cooperative interactions are fundamental to thriving communities.
Example Lesson: Responsibility towards the environment
Explanation: Characters in the book take actions to preserve plant life, showcasing the necessity of conservation efforts.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to adopt sustainable habits like recycling and conserving water, fostering an early sense of environmental stewardship.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and learning about science
Explanation: Through the adventures in the book, characters discover various scientific facts about plants, sparking curiosity.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to explore and ask questions about the natural world around them, possibly leading to scientific hobbies or education.