Climate Action (Older)

(3) YA Photographs by Jennifer S. Larson. Photographs by Jennifer S. Larson. Reuse and re-purpose everything from socks to sweaters to tin cans and produce hats, gloves, home décor, and more. Each of thirty appealing projects is rated for difficulty; the entries include inspiration for the crafts, required equipment and materials, and step-by-step instructions. Full-color photos show the processes as well as the finished products, some modeled by young people. Reading list, websites. Ind.

Reviewer: Gail Hedges

(2) YA A wake-up call about the environmental crisis, this book homes in on five "key fronts"--population, consumption, energy, food, and climate--and explores historical and sociological contexts. Fleischman writes urgently, conversationally, and inspirationally, in a flow of ideas that can be dizzying. Yet none of the concepts is dumbed-down. A refreshingly opinionated approach to informed action. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Danielle J. Ford | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2014

(3) YA In recent years, Ebola, Zika, SARS, and other viruses have increasingly threatened humans. Eight chapters outline factors contributing to the increase, including global travel, rapidly growing populations, loss of animal habitat bringing humans into closer contact with animals, and climate change. Goldsmith also discusses scientists' efforts to prevent disaster. Plenty of photos and diagrams help break up the straightforward text. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Gail Hedges

(3) YA Oil and natural gas are examined for their contributions to modern life, as well as for the consequences of environmental disasters and contributions to global warming. Thorough coverage of the use and development of petroleum, the politics and science of petrochemicals, and recent controversies are included. Color photographs and diagrams contribute to the discussion. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Danielle J. Ford

(3) YA The oxygen-poor sections of the Gulf of Mexico, Baltic Sea, and other bodies of water threaten marine and coastal animal populations, as well as human livelihoods. Hand explains the main causes--fertilizers and runoff from upstream agribusinesses and lawns; human sewage--and possible engineering and policy solutions. Color photographs and diagrams illustrate the scope of the challenge and its impact. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Danielle J. Ford

(3) YA This thoughtful, in-depth account examines earth and human history from a climate-change perspective, the scientific evidence for human-produced global warming, global energy policies, and future societal changes that need to occur. Heos's narrative is straightforward, occasionally conversational, and mostly jargon-free. Sections labeled "Be the Change" encourage practical actions that readers can take to make a real difference. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Danielle J. Ford

(3) YA Climate change is rapidly affecting livability in communities built on thawing permafrost, islands, and coasts that will submerge in rising sea levels, or in drought- or flood-afflicted areas. Hirsch examines specific cases, illustrated with excellent photographs, graphs, and maps, and thoroughly explains the underlying climate and meteorological sciences; she concludes by considering impending scientific and political challenges. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Danielle J. Ford

(3) YA Kallen discusses growing human demand for clean water and how things such as development, large-scale farming, and global warming affect both the water cycle and supply. Local solutions such as rainwater catchment systems and pipe maintenance are also examined. The book's in-depth analysis and eye-opening stats are illustrated with stock photographs, often of recent water-crisis events. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Bridget McCaffrey

(3) YA Kallen provides a thoughtful evaluation of the problems with human waste--particularly since the advent of plastic and a culture of disposable goods. The technologies of waste treatment, storage, and cleanup--as well as the challenges of waste removal in oceans across the globe and in space--are thoroughly examined. Effective photographs and charts are included throughout. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Danielle J. Ford

(4) YA In this book, teenage author Martinez, an Indigenous climate activist and youth director of the eco organization Earth Guardians, spells out the many environmental problems the world faces, from dying coral reefs to the dangers of fracking. The agenda-crammed but exuberant text underscores the urgency of Martinez's message, and tips on successful movement-building may inspire a diverse range of teens to be tomorrow's climate activists.

Reviewer: Bridget McCaffrey

(3) YA Illustrated with excellent photos and charts, here's an up-to-date, well-informed overview of international interest in and controversies over the Arctic region, with a balanced look at effects on its resources as the polar ice cap diminishes. From potential energy sources to impacts on indigenous people, McPherson covers the "high hopes and harsh realities" of the region. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Frieda F. Bostian

(3) YA Ten chapters urge readers to expand their food choices to help ameliorate the interrelated issues of climate change and global hunger. Suggestions--most already enjoyed by humans in many parts of the world--include protein-rich, sustainably raised insects (crickets, grubs); local wild plants and "weeds" (dandelions, kudzu); and invasive animal species (periwinkles, nutria). Full-color photos, recipes, nutritional charts, and "grow your own grubs" instructions are included. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Gail Hedges

(3) YA This well-researched and clearly formatted book outlines some of the most modern theories and research about possible solutions to climate change. The narrative, supported by relevant photographs and diagrams, introduces the problem then organizes potential solutions by category, with explorations of pros and cons included. Inserts and sidebars provide additional facts on related topics. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Kristine Caldwell

(3) YA Zimmer explains how chemical pollutants such as heavy metals and pesticides, as well as fossil and nuclear fuels, affect human and environmental health. Case studies include prominent events like Chernobyl and the Flint water crisis. Each chapter ends with a "What You Can Do" section encouraging readers to learn more and take action. Photographs and scientific diagrams are found throughout. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Danielle J. Ford