What a Country Without Wetlands
What’s inside...
In 'What a Country Without Wetlands,' author Ndyakira Amooti explores the environmental, social, and economic consequences of a hypothetical country that has lost all its wetlands due to unchecked development, pollution, and climate change. The book highlights the critical role of wetlands in biodiversity, flood protection, water filtration, and carbon storage. Through scientific research and narrative storytelling, Amooti illustrates the severe impacts on wildlife, human communities, and ecosystem health. The loss of wetlands leads to more severe natural disasters, declining fish and bird populations, and increased carbon emissions, worsening climate change. The book serves as a cautionary tale and urges action to preserve and restore wetlands.
Age
8-10
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think would happen to animals if there were no wetlands?
Why are wetlands important for our environment?
Can you think of ways people can help protect and preserve wetlands?
How do you feel when you think about a world without wetlands?
What are some of the plants or animals you might find in a wetland?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine various scenarios depicted in the book, and discuss their thoughts and emotions related to those scenarios.
Link the story to real-life by discussing any local wetlands and their importance to your community.
After reading, consider visiting a nearby wetland to help children connect the book's themes to the real world.
Use the illustrations in the book as conversation starters, asking your child to describe what they see and what they think it means.
Praise your child’s responses to cultivate an open and positive environment for discussing deeper ecological issues.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Wetland Conservation
Explanation: The story showcases the diverse ecosystem and the critical role wetlands play in maintaining environmental balance.
Real-World Application: Children can participate in local clean-up drives and be encouraged to learn about recycling and conservation efforts.
Example Lesson: Biodiversity Awareness
Explanation: Through vivid illustrations and narrative, the book highlights various species that depend on wetlands, emphasizing the interconnectedness of life.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to visit nature reserves and learn to observe and appreciate the wildlife and plant species that make up their local ecosystem.
Example Lesson: Responsibility Toward Nature
Explanation: The characters in the book learn to take actions that help protect and preserve their natural surroundings.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in a child’s everyday life by promoting responsible behaviors like not littering and the importance of caring for plants and animals in their community.
Example Lesson: Impact of Human Activity on Ecosystems
Explanation: The book discusses how human activities can harm wetlands, depicting a clear cause and effect scenario.
Real-World Application: Children can be taught to make eco-friendly choices, like using less plastic, to help minimize their impact on the environment.
Example Lesson: The Power of Community Action
Explanation: As the community in the book comes together to save the wetlands, it underscores the strength of collective efforts.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to engage in community service and understand how teamwork can lead to positive environmental changes.