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Let’s Save the Okavango Delta

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Book Synopsis

Discover why we must protect Okavango Delta from climate change.

Explore the Okavango Delta, Africa’s incredible inland wetland, a sparkling jewel at the heart of the Kalahari Desert. This richly illustrated picture book brings to life this extraordinary region for young children, navigating its maze of shimmering lagoons, meandering channels and overgrown islands teeming with wildlife. In this watery wilderness, lion, cheetah, leopard and African wild dog share the floodplains with large herds of elephant and buffalo. It delves into the important role wetlands play in reducing the effects of greenhouse gases, and showcases the rich wildlife and diverse communities that can all be found there and therefore why it is so important that we act to protect this special part of the planet from the impact of climate change.

Our Review Panel says...

Let’s Save the Okavango Delta is a superb choice to compliment KS1 and Lower KS2 topics around the environment, climate change or even to support a contrasting locality study in Geography.

It is a beautiful illustrated and fascinating look into the wetlands of Botswana. Catherine Barr takes this area of Southern Africa and uses each double page spread to share a compelling reasons for saving this extraordinary habitat, enabling young readers to appreciate the breadth of impact that climate change brings upon even the smallest of areas. Each section is written in a similar style; a short paragraph of introduction and then captions to accompany the beautiful pencil drawn illustrations.

The writing style is accessible for more able KS1 readers and offers enough topic specific vocabulary to aid discussion and research.Whilst the book can be enjoyed in its entirety, there are so many themes which can be built upon and developed as the book unfolds; from the animals and birdlife which live there to how rural and urban localities within the region are impacted by the river itself. As a resource for persuasive writing, the book offers so many opportunities to debate meaningfully. For example, the controversial subject of fossil fuel extraction in the area would be particularly interesting to explore.

The final two page spread challenges the reader to consider how they can impact climate change and become more informed about wetland habitats. It also offers some superb home learning activity ideas! The author asks the reader to consider supporting World Wetlands Day and even encourages readers to create their own wetlands hotspot in their garden. The final caption draws this together with the request to share all of the important things they have learned in an assembly. The book is truly thought provoking and is highly recommended.