I Fuel
How Energy Powers Our Busy World
From the Series On the Move
Fuel keeps our world moving—and I Fuel: How Energy Powers Our Busy World shows exactly how.
From ancient organic matter buried deep underground to the energy sources of tomorrow, this engaging children’s book takes readers on a fascinating journey through the story of oil, gas, and alternative energy.
Through clear, approachable science and vibrant illustrations, young readers will discover how fossil fuels are formed, how oil and gas are extracted and refined, and how they power the systems we rely on every day—from cars and airplanes to lights and heating. The book also introduces renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower, helping children understand the growing importance of clean energy solutions for the planet’s future.
Perfect for classrooms, STEM programs, and families in the energy industry, I Fuel connects complex energy concepts to the real world in a way that’s accessible and inspiring. This title sparks curiosity about how energy works, where it comes from, and how engineers and scientists are shaping the next generation of sustainable power.
Key Features:
- Engaging, easy-to-understand introduction to oil, gas, and renewable energy
- Explains how fuel is discovered, refined, and used in everyday life
- Encourages environmental awareness and critical thinking about energy choices
- Features bright, detailed illustrations that bring scientific concepts to life Ideal for children interested in STEM, engineering, or how things work
| Format | Your Price | Add |
|---|---|---|
|
978-1-7284-7683-4
|
$19.99 | |
|
979-8-7656-3844-6
|
$24.99 |
| Interest Level | Kindergarten - Grade 3 |
|---|---|
| Reading Level | Grade 2 |
| Genre | Picture Books |
| Copyright | 2024 |
| Publisher | Lerner Publishing Group |
| Imprint | Millbrook Press ™ |
| Language | English |
| Number of Pages | 40 |
| Publication Date | 2024-10-01 |
Author: Kelly Rice Schmitt
Kelly Rice Schmitt is an author of STEAM children’s literature. She holds a BBA in finance and Chinese from the University of Notre Dame and is an advocate for girls in STEM, business, and other fields with gender gaps. She can be found in North Carolina helping other traders grow their businesses, writing for children, and exploring, singing, and creating with her husband and young children.
Illustrator: Jam Dong
Jam Dong was born in Shanghai, China. She has an MA degree of moving image from the University of Arts London and graduated from Maryland Institute College of Art in 2021 with an MFA in illustration practice. She likes to use bright colors and simple shapes to build the imaginary world inside her mind. The beauty of nature provides her with inspiration all the time. She is a freelance illustrator based in Boston, Massachusetts.
Lerner eSource™ offers free digital teaching and learning resources, including Common Core State Standards (CCSS) teaching guides. These guides, created by classroom teachers, offer short lessons and writing exercises that give students specific instruction and practice using Common Core skills and strategies. Lerner eSource also provides additional resources including online activities, downloadable/printable graphic organizers, and additional educational materials that would also support Common Core instruction. Download, share, pin, print, and save as many of these free resources as you like!
On the Move
Take readers on unique transportation journeys—narrated by vehicles and even by fuel itself! First-person points of view provide intriguing perspectives on the vital roles that vehicles and fuel play in our lives and in the global economy. Rich back matter provides more detail on the… View available downloads →
I Fuel
We’re mighty fuel—ready to power the world! From lightbulbs and stoves to cars and planes, many things around us need fuel to work. Where does that fuel come from? Follow oil on its journey from the time of the dinosaurs to the bottom of the ocean… View available downloads →
I Fuel: An Interview with Author Kelly Rice Schmitt
Follow the production of fuel from the first formation of oil to the refining process and beyond in I Fuel: How Energy Powers Our Busy World by Kelly Rice Schmitt and illustrated by Jam Dong. This fun and fact-filled picture book shares the story of where fuel comes from, how we use it,… View →
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Awards
- CYBILS Award Nominee
Reviews
Horn Book Herald
“The text, which uses oil as a first-person narrator, doesn’t shy away from the problems with using fossil fuels and also discusses renewable sources of energy.”—The Horn Book Herald
Children's Literature Comprehensive Database (CLCD)
“The illustrations are colorful and accurately identify the journey of fuel overtime for young readers. Vehicle lovers will enjoy this behind the scenes look at the fuel that powers their favorite machines! Reviewer Rating: 5”—Children’s Literature
Booklist
“Schmitt uses simple language to describe, step by step, how fossil fuels are formed, extracted, refined, and put to use in the production of both energy and various chemical and plastic goods.”—Booklist
