As teen activist Greta Thunberg dominates headlines, publishers have begun to publish and announce books about the activist for all ages, with some titles available now and more on the way through fall 2020. At 16 years old, the Swedish environmental activist is known for sparking the global school climate strike movement, “Fridays for Future” and for her impassioned calls to action directed at political leaders from around the world urging them to address climate change. In the spirit of Thunberg’s work, many publishers have opted for sustainable materials when considering printing and are donating proceeds to environmental nonprofit organizations. The forthcoming titles offer Thunberg’s story through a variety of methods: an illustrated biography, an allegorical lens, a guide with tips to get involved, and more.
Greta and the Giants
This picture book about a girl named Greta who lives in a beautiful forest threatened by giants is an allegorical retelling of Thunberg’s story, which includes a back section explaining that the fight against the “giants” isn’t over and provides information on joining the movement. This edition will be printed domestically in the U.K. and U.S., in China for Asia/AusNZ, and in Slovenia for European co-editions on 100% recycled paper. Three percent of all profits will be donated to organizations Thunberg endorses; in the U.S. profits will be donated to 350.org, while the profits in all other markets will be donated to Greenpeace. Additionally, with every confirmed pre-order, Quarto will donate to OneTreePlanted.org, planting one tree per copy.
Greta’s Story: The Schoolgirl Who Went on Strike to Save the Planet
Originally published in Italy earlier this year, this unofficial biography is written for middle grade readers. Focusing heavily on her activism, the illustrated profile also centers Thunberg’s role as mental health advocate and provides back matter with practical tips, a glossary of terms, and a timeline on the study of climate change.
No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference
This book, being published for adults, is an expanded version of a volume that was published in the U.K. earlier this year. It collects more than a dozen of Thunberg’s speeches, including her history-making addresses to the United Nations and the U.S. Congress. Thunberg has pledged all her earnings from this title to charity.
Our House Is On Fire: Greta Thunberg’s Call to Save the Planet
Thunberg’s introduction to climate change at age 15 and her journey to speaking to world leaders at the United Nations Climate Conference and the World Economic Forum only one year later are chronicled in this picture book biography about her activism and message. Author and illustrator Winters is an established author of picture book biographies, often focusing on lesser known figures from modern society. The first picture book account of Thunberg’s crusade, this volume was fast-tracked to launch this fall.
Our House Is On Fire
This memoir, to be jointly written by Thunberg and her sister, mother, and father, tells the story of the family before Greta’s now-famous school strike campaign, as they tackle their own personal crises by taking on another, bigger crisis together. The Thunberg-Ernman family will donate all earnings to charity.
We Are All Greta: Be Inspired to Save the World
Written by an environmental journalist, this illustrated nonfiction guide for readers ages 11 and up uses Thunberg’s warnings about climate change as a framework to inspire readers to follow her lead, joining the global mission to save the planet from climate change. The guide was printed in the U.S. on FCS certified paper. Free, printable illustrated protest posters are available here.
