Birth of Audubon Society Books for Kids

Historical Fiction Environmental Books for Kids Inspire

I pair these two excellent books together because they tell two parts of the same story: the near eradication of the Snowy Egret caused by a fashion trend and the birth of the Audubon Society in Boston, Massachusetts. It’s interesting how easy it is to change the natural balance of things by something seemingly so insignificant as a fashion trend. This is a great environmental message to children that also happens to have a happy ending: the Snowy Egret, now protected by law in the U.S., has made a comeback!

The Adventures of Charlie Peirce: The Last Egret by Harvey E. Oyer III

This is a gem of a book. Written by the great-grandnephew of Charlie Peirce, this is a true story about the life of a young Florida pioneer and his experience during one of America’s darkest environmental episodes. When a new property tax threatens the home of Charlie Peirce, young Charlie learns of the new “black gold” to be had by killing birds for their feathers. He travels to the Everglades and must eventually choose between right and riches — a choice that would influence him and his friends for the rest of their lives. [chapter book, ages 8-12]

She’s Wearing a Dead Bird on Her Head! by Kathryn Lasky

While this is a picture book, it is appropriate for children of all ages, particularly girls. It tells the story of socialite Bostonians Harriet Hemmenway and her cousin, Minna Hall who are so outraged by the new fashion of hats that are threatening bird species in Florida that they are the nucleus for a new group: The Audubon Society. [picture book, ages 6-12]

For more books on Florida, please check out Top 10: Children’s Books for Your Florida or Beach Vacation.

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