Awesome Dawson, by Chris Gall

The next generation is going to be so confused about the environment. At school they are (rightly so) bombarded with philosophies such as: ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’ or kitchen garden programs or the evils of littering. Then they walk out into the world and everywhere they see waste, single-use items and an epidemic of littering (my kids love to tell me each time they see a cigarette butt). How are they supposed to digest such a paradox?

There are plenty of children’s books that tackle environmental issues and promote Earth-love. These types of books have actually been around since before my childhood: ‘The Lorax‘ was first published in 1971 and is still teaching children about the delicate balance of ecosystems.

‘Awesome Dawson‘ has a much more subtle message about protecting the environment that kids (and grown-ups) need to learn. We live in a society filled with disposable-this and single-use-that. Where we ‘need’ upgrades. Where is it more convenient to replace rather than repair.   Awesome Dawson shows kids the joy and creativity of repurposing. The message is summed up on the last page: “EVERYTHING can be used again!”

This is a great book for opening kids’ eyes up to the inventive world of upcycling and repurposing. Dawson is a kid who loves to build and create using whatever he can get his hands on, but especially his toys. Think Sid from Toy Story crossed with Doc McStuffins. If you have a budding mechanic or engineer or designer, this will really their scratch their tinkering itch.