One Plastic Bag

One Plastic Bag recounts the true story of Isatou Ceesay, a woman in Gambia who noticed plastic bags accumulating in her community. The waste created problems for both people and animals in her village. Isatou began looking for solutions to address the growing environmental issue in her community. Her grassroots initiative grew into a movement that involved other women from her village. Working together with determination, the women developed an innovative way to transform the plastic waste into something useful. The book shows how one person's actions can inspire positive change in a community. This picture book explores themes of environmental responsibility, community action, and women's empowerment in West Africa. The narrative demonstrates how local solutions can address global problems.

Readers appreciate the book's real-world environmental message and its portrayal of community action in Gambia. Teachers and parents note it helps children understand global waste issues while remaining hopeful and solution-focused. Readers highlight: - Clear explanations of recycling for young audiences - Elizabeth Zunon's textured illustrations incorporating real plastic bags - Connection to math and counting activities - Cultural details about life in Gambia Common criticisms: - Text can be complex for youngest readers - Some found the pacing slow in middle sections Ratings: Goodreads: 4.28/5 (1,100+ ratings) Amazon: 4.8/5 (300+ ratings) Specific feedback: "Perfect for teaching children about recycling while also learning about another culture" - Elementary school librarian "The actual process of making recycled purses could have been explained more clearly" - Parent reviewer "My students were inspired to start their own recycling project" - 3rd grade teacher

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🌍 This book is based on the true story of Isatou Ceesay, who became known as the "Queen of Recycling" in The Gambia for her innovative solution to plastic waste. ♻️ The colorful illustrations in the book were created using actual recycled materials and papers, perfectly reflecting the story's eco-friendly message. 👜 The women's recycling initiative featured in the story has grown into a movement called "One Plastic Bag," which has helped eliminate over a million plastic bags in The Gambia. 🎨 Author Miranda Paul visited The Gambia multiple times and worked directly with Isatou Ceesay to ensure the story's authenticity and accuracy. 🌱 The book includes a timeline, Wolof language glossary, and instructions for turning plastic bags into jump ropes, inspiring young readers to take environmental action in their own communities.