The Kids' Environment Book: What's Awry and Why

Examines our environmental problems, humankind's historic relationship with the earth and its living species, how industrialization has dramatically changed our planet, and what must be done to repair the damage

Grade 6-9-- Pedersen follows the pattern of many others who have addressed the topic; each chapter discusses the causes and effects of an environmental problem. Some oversimplifications occur in the text, but the sketchy black-and-orange cartoons are far worse offenders. In one diagram, the ocean seems to be in the atmosphere and the carbon cycle is unintelligible. Detailed scientific information is explained on separate pages and sections in italicized type, but concepts are difficult to absorb. Slang and questionable phrasing is used throughout. This tone may appeal to young teens but does not compensate for the plodding style and informational overload. The black-and-white photographs are poorly reproduced. The annotated list of publications and organizations is useful; the large numbers of technical terms used make the extensive glossary indispensable. From a different viewpoint, Newton's Taking a Stand Against Pollution (1990) encourages action . Herda and Madden's Energy Resources: Towards a Renewable Future (1991) and Gardiner's Energy Demands (1990 , all Watts) are more readable titles.
- Meryl Silverstein, American Museum of Natural History, New York City
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.