Living Green

November 1, 2008
Gr 3-6-Each of the first 20 pages of each book features a large photo on a full spread, with related text next to or superimposed on the striking visual. Smaller photos, maps, and text boxes add information, but since the topic changes with every page turn, coverage is necessarily basic and simplified. For example, "Energy" talks about clean coal, wind, wave, solar, and nuclear power, plus biomass, one of the best renewable energy sources for the future. The final pages in the volumes appear aimed at the older age range, with smaller, denser, colored type presenting case studies, offering suggestions for action, and providing additional background and facts. The introductory overviews would work with small groups, while better readers could delve deeper into a topic by concentrating on the remaining pages.

Copyright 2008 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

January 1, 2009
This series covers green living and environmental policy for children. Each book tackles a different problem, defining the issue using lucid, easy-to-read (though occasionally preachy) text and clear stock photographs. Appended "Just the Facts" and "How to Help" sections give suggestions (of varying degrees of originality) for what kids can do to help protect the planet. Reading list. Glos., ind.

(Copyright 2009 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)