Urban Farming (Food Matters)

Urban Farming helps readers trace the history of farming in urban areas, understand why we do it, explore the science behind it, and discuss controversies from an objective viewpoint. The title will engage readers on the topic and help them to weigh the pros and cons as they make their own food decisions. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Core Library is an imprint of Abdo Publishing, a division of ABDO.

Gr 4-7-Although all people need to eat, not all of us tend to think about where our food comes from and what goes into producing it. Providing pros and cons related to the issues, this series outlines ways in which people can become well-informed, responsible, and safe food consumers. Each book begins with a chapter that addresses readers in the second person, making the topic relevant to the audience. Socially responsible food matters are discussed, such as genetically modified organisms and animal rights, as well as topics related to health, including serving sizes, nutrition, and exercise, in order to guide readers into making healthful and ethical choices. Appealing captioned color photos, charts, and sidebars provide additional information that supplements the main text. A "What's the Big Idea?" feature urges students to do a close reading and answer text-based questions, and a "Consider Your Audience" feature prompts them to adapt text and write a blog post. VERDICT A well-rounded, engaging series.α(c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.