Book description
As a young girl growing up in Kenya, Wangari was surrounded by trees. But years later when she returns home, she is shocked to see whole forests being cut down, and she knows that soon all the trees will be destroyed. So Wangari decides to do something - and starts…
Why read it?
2 authors picked Wangari's Trees of Peace as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?
Wangari is from Kenya and grew up among many trees. When she is older and returns home, she notices that the trees have all been cut down. She decides to replant her own trees which starts a movement with many to reforest the land. She has many obstacles to overcome but, in the end, prevails. This is a story that shows determination in the face of many challenges to make a difference. I, of course, love that it also introduces children to a very different and very beautiful part of the world. This is another story that can connect us…
From Christine's list on The best books with stories from Africa with strong protagonists.
There are many beautiful picture books about environmentalist and Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai, founder of the Green Belt Movement in Kenya, but this one expresses so simply and clearly the connection between the health of the land and of the community that depends on it.
After years away, Wangari Maathai came home to Kenya and was shocked to find barren ground where there had once been trees and crops. Although she was overwhelmed by the loss, she refused to give in to despair. Wangari planted nine seedlings and convinced other women to do the same. My favourite part…
From Laura's list on The best children’s books on gardening as community building.
If you love Wangari's Trees of Peace...
Hazel and Mabel
A satisfying story of rediscovering friendship after time spent apart.
For many years, Hazel and Mabel were inseparable. The two friends made up stories, spent the night together, and shared their snacks. Then, Mabel moved away. As time passes, Hazel and Mabel think of each other often, but they also…
Want books like Wangari's Trees of Peace?
Our community of 13,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like Wangari's Trees of Peace.
Share your top 3 reads of 2026!
And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.
185
readers submitted
so far, will you?
📚 If you like Wangari's Trees of Peace, you might also like...
If I Could Choose a Best Day
A fresh, fun, inspiring illustrated poetry collection you can put in the hands of any reader.
Curated by the award-winning duo Irene Latham and Charles Waters, this collection contains 30 poems that all begin with the same word: "if." Subject matter moves from the practical "if you have a pencil"…
A Foot is Not a Fish!
In a time of alternative facts and the loss of a shared sense of reality, A Foot is Not a Fish playfully illustrates the difference between what is true and what is not through absurd fun comparisons that every child—and parent—will instantly understand.
This book playfully illustrates common truths by…
