• Age: 9 to 12
• Grade: 4 to 7
• Reading age: 9 to 12

We know spending time in nature is good for us, but why? And how did people become so disconnected from the natural world, anyway?

Get Outside! How Humans Connect with Nature explores the important relationship between people and nature. It asks big questions, like Are humans part of nature or separate from it? and Do all people have equal access to nature? By discussing global issues such as the climate crisis and environmental racism, the book shows us that, by strengthening our relationship with the natural world, we can learn how to take care of the environment and to let the environment take care of us too.

The epub edition of this title is fully accessible.

Leah Payne is a writer, editor and mother. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communication from Simon Fraser University and a master’s degree in library and information studies (MLIS) from the University of British Columbia. She is the author of Less Is More: Join the Low-Waste Movement in the Orca Footprints series. Leah lives in Vancouver, British Columbia, where she loves spending time in nature with her family.

Leah Payne's profile page

• Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens, starred selection

“Payne argues that humans are part of nature and should be engaging with the natural world more often and more effectively…Informative and likely to spur readers to forge a stronger bond with the natural world.”

Kirkus Reviews

“Gives succinct, interesting explanations of topics related to humanity’s connection with nature…Leaves readers with fun, inspiring ways to get off their screens and go outside.”

Booklist

“The text is visually striking…This book should appeal to readers interested in or curious about the outdoors and could lead to deeper engagement or activism.”

School Library Journal (SLJ)

“Emphasizes the importance of connecting with nature and the many benefits of doing so. Highly Recommended.”

CM: Canadian Review of Materials

“Gives readers an incredible amount of information…This informative book will inspire young readers as well as adults around them to respect nature and to find ways to learn from and enjoy time spent outdoors.”

Children's Literature Comprehensive Database (CLCD)

“A compendium of resources for kids who are looking to develop their relationship with the natural world in a positive way.”

Canadian Children's Book Centre (CCBC) Canadian Children’s Book News