Safe Crossing by Kari Percival is a beautifully illustrated picture book that introduces children to the ways animals move through the natural world — and how people can help protect those important journeys. Through lyrical storytelling and detailed artwork, young readers follow migrating animals as they search for food, shelter, and safer paths across landscapes shaped by roads and human development. The story gently introduces the idea of wildlife crossings and conservation while encouraging curiosity, empathy, and a deeper connection to nature. Why Parents Love It Nature-based learning: Introduces wildlife migration and animal habitats in an accessible, engaging way. Encourages environmental awareness: Helps children understand how people and wildlife share outdoor spaces. Beautiful illustration style: Rich artwork keeps kids engaged while supporting thoughtful read-aloud moments. Supports outdoor curiosity: Inspires conversations about animals, trails, ecosystems, and caring for nature. Great for classrooms and family reading: Fits naturally into nature-study units, outdoor education, and bedtime reading. Built for Real Outdoor Learning Safe Crossing helps children see the outdoors as a connected living world filled with movement, migration, and discovery. It encourages families to slow down, observe wildlife closely, and build stronger connections to the natural spaces around them. Perfect for families seeking more green time, less screen time through nature walks, trail routines, animal observation, and outdoor storytelling. Things to Know Recommended ages: 4–8 years Format: Hardcover picture book Themes: Wildlife migration, conservation, habitats, ecosystems, empathy, environmental stewardship Author & illustrator: Kari Percival Publisher: Chronicle Books Product Details Title: Safe Crossing Author: Kari Percival ISBN-13: 9781797214566 Publisher: Chronicle Books Language: English Format: Hardcover Why ODSS Recommends It This is the kind of book that naturally extends outdoor adventures beyond the trail. Safe Crossing encourages children to notice animal tracks, migration patterns, and the ways wildlife moves through the world around them. It supports meaningful outdoor conversations while helping families build deeper appreciation for nature, conservation, and everyday exploration outside together.