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"Stories are a wonderful way of introducing environment and health themes to early readers. They also make for engaging teaching tools, and are a powerful force in children's language and literacy development."
- Dr. Bob Nosal, Medical Officer of Health, Halton Region

"This book used Barn Owls---a critically endangered Ontario species, to illustrate the equally critical environmental issue of climate change. The message is friendly and accessible to children. Two talons up!"
- Amy Fennell, Raptor Centre Lead, Mountsberg Conservation Area



Winner of a 2012 IABC Gold Quill Award of Excellence (Communications management - Social Responsibility)

A Farewell to Featherwagons is an illustrated children’s picture book (for ages 4-8) that introduces issues associated with air quality and climate change. The book includes facts on Barn Owls, air quality, and climate change, in addition to 3 story-related "seek and find" activities, plus tips on how to make a difference.

A Farewell to Featherwagons
E-Book 3.8MB     FREE DOWNLOAD!

Additional languages available for download:

• French 3.8MB
• Spanish 3.7MB
• Cantonese 4MB
• Polish 3.8MB

What is the book about?

Biff is a Barn Owl who loves to go to the Great Lake with his brother Tyto and sister Alba-Alba. But when their efforts to get there are spoiled by traffic, bad air, and bad storms, they begin to think about how their featherwagon contributes to air pollution and climate change. They quickly discover a better way to get to the Lake—using their wings to fly.

Why raise awareness with a picture book?

Picture books with environmental themes are wonderful ways of introducing children to issues in an entertaining and approachable way. Stories can be an important element of environmental change. They make for engaging teaching tools and are part of children’s language and literacy development. Picture books can also be a unique way to raise awareness with adult target audiences as well as inspire earth-friendly living at an early age.  

Who created the book?

The book was created by a team of experts on air quality, climate change, and physical activity—in addition to a raptor specialist, literacy consultant, and professional illustrator. This team created the book with the purpose of educating the public about the health impacts associated with air quality and climate change, and the actions that can be taken to improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gases.

Where can I find a copy of this book?

• Download the A Farewell to Featherwagons E-Book (3.8MB) for free!
• Copies of the book have been provided to:
  
  • public libraries
  • child care centres
  • schools
  • community networks and partners

Are there supplementary learning materials to go with the book?

• Yes, a Storytelling Kit is available online in support of the themes presented in the book.

For more information

• Air Quality and Climate Change Tools for Schools
  A one-stop-shop to help schools access air quality/climate change data and resources.
  www.halton.ca/toolsforschools