ZOLA HINDS, a Jamaican PhD student in nuclear engineering who resides in the United Kingdom, has penned a captivating children’s book on renewable energy. Presented through the imaginative lens of a superhero team, the 26-page book, titled Island Energy, combines education and entertainment, simplifying the complex subject of renewable energy and making it relatable and understandable to readers of all ages. The story is set in the picturesque Caribbean, where a unique team of superheroes, each representing a different form of energy, comes together to protect their homeland and educate the inhabitants about sustainable energy sources.
The characters are well-developed, with distinct personalities that embody the characteristics of the energy they represent. One such superhero is Solar Energy, which is portrayed as a radiant and reliable hero, always ready to harness the sun’s power, while Wind Energy is a dynamic and swift character, capturing the essence of the ever-changing wind currents. The other superheroes in the narrative are Hydroelectric Energy, Geothermal Energy and Nuclear Energy.
The narrative is both informative and thrilling, as the superheroes face various challenges that test their abilities and highlight the importance of each energy source. The plot cleverly weaves in factual information about how these energy sources work, their benefits, and their potential to transform the Caribbean into a sustainable energy powerhouse. Natural beauty One of the standout features of Island Energy is its vivid and colourful illustrations, which will appeal to younger readers.
The artwork brings the Caribbean’s natural beauty to life, with lush landscapes and vibrant scenes that complement the story perfectly. The visual representation of the superheroes and their powers is both imaginative and educational, making the book a feast for the eyes as well as the mind. The book does an excellent job of highlighting the importance of teamwork and community effort in achieving energy sustainability.
The superheroes must work together, combining their unique strengths, to overcome obstacles and protect their island. This message is particularly resonant, emphasising that a collective effort is essential in addressing global energy challenges. Island Energy is a delightful read that balances entertainment with education.
It is perfect for young readers who are just beginning to learn about renewable energy, as well as for anyone interested in a fresh and engaging approach to this critical topic. The book not only informs, but also inspires, encouraging readers to think about how they can contribute to a more sustainable future. Island Energy is a must-read for anyone passionate about renewable energy and environmental conservation.
Its creative storytelling, memorable characters, and stunning illustrations make it a standout addition to any bookshelf. This book is more than just a story – it’s a call to action, inviting readers to join the heroes in their quest for a cleaner, greener world. Hinds said that her inspiration for the book was fuelled by curiosity and the scarcity of information on “nuclear energy in the Caribbean” as an additional source of clean energy for the local power grid.
She decided to bridge the gap by creating a children’s book that simplifies the complexities of nuclear energy and other regional energy sources, while weaving in elements of Caribbean culture and inclusivity. Her experience as a climate advocate includes participation in the Girls Climate Action for Resilience and Empowerment programme. Additionally, she has served as director of project planning for the Jamaica Climate Change Youth Council, coordinating the Albion Heights project, an initiative funded by the UNDP to mitigate the impact of climate change and create a ‘green’ community.
The project included the installation of renewable energy solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and community recycling systems in 10 households. The book can be accessed online via Amazon, Barnes and Noble websites or in-store at Kozy Korner Books in Kingston. As of 2020, fossil fuels still accounted for almost 89 per cent of Jamaica’s electricity generation, but the country has pledged to increase the use of renewables to 20 per cent by 2030, and 50 per cent by 2038 in response to the Paris Agreement.
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