March 1, 2021
Grades 4-7 This beautifully illustrated book of nature and ecology is full of fascinating facts, activities, and suggestions on how to save nine different habitats around the world. Its inviting format and short, concise chapters offer habitat facts, biographies, a natural wonder, a field trip, an environmental success, DIY activities, and stewardship ideas (personally, locally, globally). A diverse group of naturalists, explorers, photographers, writers, and athletes who've made a positive impact on each ecosystem are profiled. Outstanding examples include Ada Blackjack, an Alaskan I�upiat who survived alone on an Arctic island for two years; Rue Mapp, founder of Outdoor Afro, which provides opportunities for Black Americans to explore the outdoors; and Bob Coomber, the first person in a wheelchair to summit a 14,000-foot mountain. The book includes websites and a bibliography and index (both not seen). The stewardship suggestions, while not necessarily unique, are easily achievable, and the activities are fun (create a rain-forest biome or frozen time capsule). An entertaining and educational book for environmentally conscious nature lovers that will inspire action.
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March 15, 2021
A hands-on handbook that traverses nine habitats around the globe, sharing stories of nature protectors and encouraging new ones. Well-designed and smartly organized, this handsome title demonstrates the wide range of ways the environment can be protected. Each chapter focuses on one habitat: mountains, forests, deserts, polar lands, ocean, freshwater, cities, rainforests, and grasslands. The structure of each chapter is simple to follow and is repeated consistently, including profiles of two individuals, a description of a natural wonder, creative ways to experience the habitat close to home, an environmental success story, a DIY project, and concrete steps readers can take to protect this habitat. With every turn of the page, stimulating stories, compelling facts, colorful pictures, and action items provide ideas for readers. The biographies and success stories are entertaining human-interest tales that read like short stories. The habitat protectors vary in age, gender, ability, nationality, and race--some, like Kenyan Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai, are modern while others, such as Central Park designer Frederick Law Olmsted, are historical. The suggested activities are interdisciplinary, providing inspiration that proves that all types of people can enjoy and protect nature. Orlando's truly beautiful art, with its soft edges and natural tones, contributes to the inviting, welcoming reading experience. A strong choice for any young reader interested in the natural world. (bibliography, index) (Nonfiction. 8-12)
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July 1, 2021
Gr 3 Up-Young people interested in conservation and climate activism or merely getting closer to nature will find much to expand their knowledge here. The book describes nine habitats such as forests, mountains, deserts, cities, and freshwater. Each chapter is patterned the same way with an introduction, fast facts, two biographies, a natural wonder, a field trip, an environmental success story, a DIY project, and stewardship suggestions. The chapters can be read independently and out of order. The biographies are a strong part of each chapter. The women, men, and children profiled are an international group who have positively impacted the environment. Many were first in their field, such as Junko Tabei, the first woman to summit Mount Everest, while others are responsible for national and international legislation and protections, such as Minerva Hamilton Hoyt, who advocated for the creation of California's Joshua Tree National Monument. All invite further investigation. The DIY projects have clear instructions and can be completed at different levels. The environmental success stories offer some optimism with victories for the natural world (mountain gorilla protections; Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve). Orlando's full-color drawings beautifully capture all the important aspects of each chapter. Back matter includes websites, a bibliography, and index. VERDICT This accessible guide offers a good balance of detailed information with engaging activities and calls to action. It could be used successfully in STEAM, outdoor classroom, or environmental science units. A strong choice to inspire young changemakers for our planet.-Elisabeth LeBris, Kenilworth SD 38, Winnetka, IL
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