The Boy Who Spoke to the Earth

Written by Chris Burkard and Illustrated by: David McClellan

A boy's quest for happiness leads him through Earth's wonders, but joy proves elusive.

6.8/7 Bookroo experts·4.7/5 Goodreads · 208 ratings

42 pages· 408 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud· ~520L

In stock. Also at Amazon.

Bookroo's summary

A young boy embarks on a quest for happiness, guided by the Earth itself. As he explores majestic oceans, towering cliffs, dense forests, arid deserts, and lofty mountains, he discovers that joy is not as easily found as he hoped. Will he uncover the true source of happiness, or is it hidden in plain sight? This journey through Earth's proudest landscapes challenges his understanding of what it means to be truly happy.

From the publisher

When a young boy in search of joy asks the Earth where he can find happiness, the Earth responds and agrees to show him the way. The boy rushes excitedly through the landscapes that make the Earth most proud–the ocean, the cliffs, the forest, the desert, the mountains, and the top of the world. But the boy soon realizes happiness is much harder to find than he expected.

At a glance

Format: Hardcover
Pages: 42
Words: 408
Reading age: 4–8
Audience: Picture
Lexile: ~520L

Themes & topics

Books about nature Books about Earth Books about Earth Day Books about self-discovery Books about spirituality

What readers & critics say

Reviews

6.8

out of 7

6.5

“This is an all-time favorite children's book for me. The artwork is stunning and the entire book is a fantastic celebration of our beautiful Earth. This is the first children's book by award-winning photographer Chris Burkard, and if you've seen his photography (@chrisburkard), it's no surprise that the message of this book is to take time to explore and enjoy beautiful moments. Children might not appreciate that important reminder as much as adults, but they'll love the pretty illustrations and the peaceful, calm of this book. The words are simple and direct, but that's part of what makes it powerful.”

Lemony Snickers

Trusted reviewer

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