Greta and the Giants
By Zoe Tucker
(for readers in grades 4–7)
Greta and the Giants by Zoe Tucker is an allegory to help young readers understand the impact Greta Thunberg (Time Magazine‘s 2019 Person of the Year) has had in her fight to save the world. This allegorical take on Greta’s struggle in halting climate change. “Greta and the Giants” begins with Greta talking to the animals of the forest to better understand the problems they face in their environment. The antagonists of this story, the Giants first came to the forest to use the seemingly endless resources for their idea of progress. They chopped down trees to make houses, buildings, and even larger houses until the seemingly endless resources have been almost all used up. Greta and friends work to find a way to curtail catastrophe.
Zoe Tucker’s version of Greta can talk and hear animals. The animals all share their grievances with fictional Greta, who responds in a similar activist nature to the real Greta. Zoe Persico’s illustrations display the harsh nature of the Giants, who personify the negative elements in those generations since the Industrial Revolution up to those who are present adults, which contributed to climate change without considering the damage to future generations. Tucker offers a positive ending.
Greta Thunberg is an important youth advocate for all kids. She sets a great example for the growing generation. Greta and the Giants inspires a route toward of cooperation and unity.
