If This Were the World
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If This Were the World

by Stephen Barr
Illustrator(s): AG Ford
Published by Neal Porter Books
Hardcover | Pages: 40
Size: 10 x 9 | USD: $18.99
ISBN: 9780823457199
Publication Date: February 17, 2026
Age: 4-8

About the Book

★★★THE REVIEWS ARE IN!★★★

“A truly original Earth Day book, certain to provoke laughter and discussion.”
Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

“Collaborative recreation yields lessons about collective responsibility in this generative story…Object by object, the youths seemingly develop a hands-on appreciation for how to create an equitable society, and a beatific close sees them opening their eyes to the vast world that already surrounds: “Then they played even better.””
Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“Ford’s cartoony illustrations rock with kinetic energy, and his portrayal of the class both as a collective whole and as distinctive individuals is an estimable accomplishment and spot-on for the book’s theme—all kinds of people need to work together to protect our Earth. ”
The Horn Book (starred review)

“This enjoyable picture book offers a great conversation starter about cooperative play wrapped in subtle undertones about the importance of taking care of Earth.”
School Library Journal

“The gentle message, wrapped up in freewheeling recess fun, resonates.”
Booklist