Book Review: Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth
A Heartfelt Guide to Our Planet: Review of Here We Are by Oliver Jeffers
🌍 Introduction: A Love Letter to Earth
Oliver Jeffers’ Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth is more than just a children’s book—it’s a tender, whimsical, and deeply philosophical meditation on what it means to call Earth home. Written as a guide for his newborn son, Jeffers distills the vastness of the universe, the wonders of nature, and the complexities of human existence into a beautifully illustrated, digestible masterpiece.
Whether you’re a parent looking for a bedtime story with substance, an educator seeking a gentle introduction to science and empathy, or simply a lover of artful storytelling, Here We Are is a book that lingers in the heart long after the last page.
📖 Plot Summary: A Guided Tour of Our World
Here We Are doesn’t follow a traditional narrative arc. Instead, it unfolds as a series of observations, explanations, and gentle advice about Earth and its inhabitants. Jeffers takes readers on a journey—starting with the cosmos, zooming into our planet, and then focusing on humanity.
He begins by situating Earth in the vastness of space (“You’ll figure it out as you go”), then moves through landscapes, oceans, and animals before arriving at human society. Along the way, he touches on diversity, kindness, and the importance of taking care of our planet. The book concludes with a poignant reminder: “Well, that is Planet Earth. Make sure you look after it, as it’s all we’ve got.”
👨🎨 Character Analysis: The Narrator as a Gentle Guide
While there are no traditional “characters,” the narrator—presumably Jeffers himself—serves as a warm, wise, and slightly humorous guide. His voice is reassuring yet never condescending, making complex ideas accessible without oversimplifying them.
✍️ Writing Style & Narrative Technique: Simplicity with Depth
Jeffers’ writing is deceptively simple. His sentences are short and direct, yet they carry profound weight. The book’s structure—moving from the cosmic to the personal—mirrors a child’s natural curiosity, starting with big questions (Where are we?) before narrowing into human relationships (How do we live together?).
His illustrations are equally impactful. The artwork is minimalist yet expressive, with soft watercolors and playful details that encourage lingering on each page. The visual storytelling complements the text perfectly, making abstract concepts (like time or gravity) feel tangible.
🌱 Thematic Exploration: Belonging, Responsibility, and Wonder
At its core, Here We Are is about three big ideas:
- Belonging – Jeffers emphasizes that Earth is our home, shared by all living things. His inclusive language (“You’re never alone on Earth”) fosters a sense of connection.
- Responsibility – The book gently introduces environmental stewardship (“There’s a lot to do, but we’re all in this together”).
- Wonder – From the stars to the deep sea, Jeffers cultivates awe for the natural world.
These themes make the book a subtle but powerful tool for discussing empathy, science, and ethics with young readers.
💭 Personal Reading Experience: A Book That Grows with You
Reading Here We Are feels like receiving a hug from the universe. As an adult, I found myself moved by its quiet wisdom—especially the reminder that we’re all “figuring it out as we go.” For children, it’s an invitation to ask questions and marvel at the world.
I’ve revisited this book multiple times, and each reading reveals new layers. It’s rare to find a children’s book that resonates just as deeply with grown-ups.
📚 Comparison to Other Works in the Genre
Fans of The Wonderful Things You Will Be by Emily Winfield Martin or What Do You Do With an Idea? by Kobi Yamada will appreciate Here We Are’s blend of poetic storytelling and life lessons. However, Jeffers’ book stands out for its scientific grounding and global perspective.
It also shares DNA with The Little Prince in its ability to distill big ideas into simple, profound truths. But where The Little Prince is allegorical, Here We Are is grounded in reality—making it both a bedtime story and a mini science lesson.
✅ Strengths & Minor Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Timeless Appeal – Works for ages 3 to 99.
- Stunning Artwork – Every page is a visual delight.
- Gentle Yet Impactful – Addresses big topics without being heavy-handed.
Minor Weaknesses:
- Abstract for Very Young Kids – Some concepts (like “time”) might need extra explanation.
- Not Plot-Driven – If you prefer traditional stories, this might feel more like a meditation.
🎯 Target Audience: Who Should Read This?
- Parents & Educators – Perfect for sparking conversations about Earth, kindness, and curiosity.
- Children Ages 4-8 – The illustrations and simple text are engaging for early readers.
- Adult Fans of Picture Books – A beautiful addition to any coffee table collection.
💬 Memorable Quotes & Passages
- “You’ll figure it out as you go.”
- “There are people all over the Earth. All different. But don’t be fooled, we are all people.”
- “Well, that is Planet Earth. Make sure you look after it, as it’s all we’ve got.”
🌎 Cultural & Historical Context
Published in 2017, Here We Are arrived at a time of increasing environmental awareness and global division. Jeffers’ message of unity and care feels especially relevant today. The book has since become a staple in classrooms and homes, often used in Earth Day discussions.
🔗 Get the Book
If Here We Are sounds like the kind of book that belongs on your shelf (and trust me, it does), you can find it here:
🔗 Get the Book: Amazon
Final Thoughts: A Book to Treasure
Here We Are is a rare gem—a children’s book that speaks to the child in all of us. With its heartfelt wisdom, stunning illustrations, and gentle call to care for our planet, it’s a book that deserves to be read, shared, and revisited often.
Have you read Here We Are? What resonated most with you? Let’s chat in the comments! 📚💙
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