The Mess That We Made [Hardcover]

The Mess That We Made explores the environmental impact of trash and plastic on the ocean and marine life, and it inspires kids to do their part to combat pollution. Simple, rhythmic wording builds to a crescendo ("This is the mess that we made. These are the fish that swim in the mess that we made.") and the vibrant digital artwork captures the disaster that is the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Children can imagine themselves as one of the four multi-ethnic occupants of the little boat surrounded by swirling plastic in the middle of the ocean, witnessing the cycle of destruction and the harm it causes to plants, animals, and humans. The first half of the book portrays the growing magnitude of the issue, and the second half rallies children and adults to make the necessary changes to save our oceans. Facts about the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, ocean pollution, and how kids can help are included in the back matter.

“Our lives depend on the ocean. Fish consume our waste and then end up on our dinner plates. I hope that this beautifully illustrated book will serve as a tool to pass on the importance of the ocean to future generations and beyond.” —Yohei Sasakawa, Chairman ofThe Nippon Foundationand founder ofChange for the Blue

"Kathryn Hahn’s heartfelt and engaging reading ofThe Mess That We Made…. not only brings this powerful story and its characters to life, but it illuminates the consequences of neglecting our planet. We are proud to release a read-aloud that promotes literacy, and underscores the importance of environmental stewardship."
—Courtney B. Vance, SAG-AFTRA Foundation President

"What I love so much about this book is that I love how they capture the ocean, the colors, the magic of being close to the ocean, and that it also tells you how serious it is that our ocean is hurting."—Kathryn Hahn,&#lS,