EEEC Book Recommendation List

Recommended books to support education settings with their sustainability journey including pivotal texts that are essential reading and texts by local Victorian authors. The categories and sub-categories are aligned with the four pillars of Education for Sustainability to reflect the environmental, social, political and economic dimensions.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Books

Country Tells Us When… (Yawuru Edition)

By Tsheena Cooper, Mary Dann, Dalisa Pigram-Ross and Sheree Ford, 2023

Discover how the Yawuru people from Broome read the seasons in this beautifully illustrated book. who were inspired to share important cultural knowledge and language in a story that was both engaging and informative for children.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Books

Come Together: Things every kid should know about the First Peoples

By Isaiah Firebrace and Jaelyn Biumaiwai, 2022

In this essential book, Isaiah, a Yorta Yorta and Gunditjmara man, establishes a foundation of First Nations knowledge with 20 key topics. It is a heart-warming, picture book that calls for Aboriginal history to be taught in every classroom.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Books

First Knowledges for younger readers: Songlines

By Margo Ngawa Neale and Lynne Kelly, 2023

Go on a journey through the oldest, biggest library of knowledge on Earth. This knowledge isn’t held in books: you will find it in Songlines of the land, sea and sky. Learn about history, art, song, science and more in this engaging and inviting introduction to Indigenous traditional knowledges, how they apply today and how they can help all people thrive into the future.

Ecological Dimension Books

The Magic and Mystery of Trees

By Jen Green and Clare McElfatrick, 2019

Learn about the amazing natural science of trees in this illustrated nature and science book.

Ecological Dimension Books

Earth’s Incredible Oceans

By Jess French and Claire McElfatrick, 2021

A gorgeously illustrated book all about oceans for young animal and conservation enthusiasts.

Ecological Dimension Books

One Less Fish

By Michelle Toft and Allan Sheather, 1997

A spectacular picture information book set on the Great Barrier Reef. The fish shimmer from page to page with hand painted silk illustrations., The authors use classic rhyme as an environmental countdown is unravelled.

Economic-Ecological Dimension Books

Something from Nothing

By Phoebe Gilman, 1993

The blanket Joseph’s grandfather made him is transformed into many things as the years go by: a jacket, a vest, a tie, a handkerchief–and finally a button. Gilman’s modern adaptation and lively illustrations turn this Jewish tale into a contemporary classic.

Political-Ecological Dimension Books

The Tantrum that Saved the World

By Megan Herbert and Michael E. Mann, 2022

An environmental picture book about finding your voice, taking collective action about a little girl who stares down the climate crisis and channels tantrum power into positive action.

Human-Animal Relations Books

Princess Cora and the Crocodile

By Laura Amy Schlitz, 2017

This book tells the story of a princess who befriends a crocodile, challenging the reader’s preconceptions about what a “monster” is and emphasizing the importance of kindness.

Human-Animal Relations Books

If Sharks Disappeared

By Lily Williams, 2022

This book raises awareness about the importance of sharks in the ecosystem, making it a good choice for sparking discussions about environmental responsibilities.

Human-Animal Relations Books

Shawn Loves Sharks

By Curtis Manley, 2017

This book celebrates the joy of nature and the unique bond between a boy and sharks, promoting respect for marine life.

Human-Animal Relations Books

We Are Human Animals

By Rosie Haine, 2023

This book uses simple language and evocative illustrations to explore the history of humanity and the ties that bind us to animals.

Human-Plant Relations Books

The World Needs the Wonder You See

By Joanna Gaines and Julianna Swaney, 2025

An imaginative adventure through nature’s small surprises and invites you and your children to be curious, slow down, and take in everyday wonders. With vibrant art by Julianna Swaney that is full of dreamy details, this whimsical picture book will inspire your family to pause busy schedules and explore together.

Socio-Ecological Dimension Books

Before You Were Born

By Katrina Germein and Hélène Magisson, 2021

An inclusive book to celebrate the anticipated birth of a child.

Socio-Ecological Dimension Books

Julián is a Mermaid

By Jessica Love, 2018

Julián is a Mermaid is a story about a boy and his Abuela. It is a story about being seen for who we are by someone who loves us.

Socio-Ecological Dimension Books

Pink is for Boys

By Robb Pearlman, 2018

This picture book rethinks and reframes the stereotypical blue/pink gender binary and empowers kids-and their grown-ups-to express themselves in every colour of the rainbow.