Is it Just a Dream?

Just a Dream by Chris Van Allsburg is a book that really moved me. Walter thinks littering is fine and doesn’t think it matters that he drops garbage wherever he feels like it. He knows it isn’t his problem. One night when he goes to sleep he has the strangest dream. In it, he is able to see the effects of all of his littering. Walter can’t get over what Earth is like with all of the pollution and garbage. Why is the landscape missing trees and plants? Is his dream real? Will the Earth really turn out badly if he doesn’t stop littering? Come along on this journey of awareness as Walter learns how our actions can have an impact!


I recommend this picture book to people from 1st grade through adulthood. Being kind to our planet has always been near and dear to my heart. I can’t imagine throwing litter on the ground, and I love to recycle. But, I know there are people that haven’t learned about throwing your garbage in the right spot, because I see litter every day lining the sidewalks and the park near my house. My brother and I try to pick up litter at least once a month, and we try to make our city a more beautiful place. I think people will be able to relate to Walter and will think about their actions after reading this masterful book. Chris Van Allsburg has a way of touching my heart with his words and illustrations. There is so much for a reader to enjoy in this treasure! As we celebrate Earth Day (and Earth Week), this book is a gentle reminder to be kind to our home or it may be no longer offer the same gifts that we have come to love.
Has anyone else read Just a Dream? Or another book by Chris Van Allsburg?
Happy reading! Do something nice for our planet today! ~LFEAR NOT THE UNEXPECTED