This true story of the first Earth Day – told through the eyes of a fictional child – will inspire readers of all ages to stand up for their planet.
As featured on NPR's Morning Edition and at the LA Times Festival of Books
Copyright 2023 Little Bee Books
Black Beach: A Community, an Oil Spill, and the Origin of Earth Day
About the Book
In 1969, Union Oil caused an oil spill off the coast of Santa Barbara that would change the world. Hazardous crude oil from the blowout flooded the Pacific Ocean, harming wildlife and devastating habitats. But from this ecological disaster sprang a new wave of environmental activism that continues to this day.
Based on actual events, Black Beach: A Community, an Oil Spill, and the Origin of Earth Day follows Sam and her classmates as they fight back. Sam initially feels powerless watching her parents and neighbors try to clean up the oil spill. But as her awareness grows, she learns she’s not alone in caring for the Earth. The impact of the spill seeps into living rooms and classrooms across the nation. People everywhere are motivated to act, and a movement to protect and celebrate the environment is born.
Copyright 2023 Little Bee Books
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Shaunna and John Stith are passionate about protecting the planet. Originally from the East Coast, they now live on the Santa Barbara Channel in Southern California where they are continually inspired by the hard work of young eco-activists. Like their protagonist Sam, they’ve learned it feels a whole lot better to stand up and act than to sit back and watch. When the two are not busy writing stories or exploring the outdoors, Shaunna practices law and John works as a writer for nonprofits and advocacy organizations. Black Beach is their first picture book together. You can find them on Twitter @johnandshaunna.
Copyright 2023 Little Bee Books
About the Authors
Shaunna and John Stith are passionate about protecting the planet. Originally from the East Coast, they now live on the Santa Barbara Channel in Southern California where they are continually inspired by the hard work of young eco-activists. Like their protagonist Sam, they’ve learned it feels a whole lot better to stand up and act than to sit back and watch. When the two are not busy writing stories or exploring the outdoors, Shaunna practices law and John works as a writer for nonprofits and advocacy organizations. Black Beach is their first picture book together.