Planet in Crisis

Not that long ago, nature books written for children and young adults were meant to show the wonders and beauties of our planet. Sadly, today’s works mostly document decline. There is no question that the Earth is undergoing rapid environmental change. Swiftly advancing technology in combination with greed and shortsightedness have brought about profound challenges to the very air, food, and water on which we depend. This growing assault has resulted in climate change, desertification, microbial resistance, depletion of groundwater, drought, famine, deforestation, overpopulation and species extinction. Each of these crises is interrelated with the others. Books for middle and high school students often concentrate on a catalogue of environmental ills and the presentation of frightening scenarios. Overwhelming students to the point of hopelessness leads to disaster fatigue and the inability to work toward reasonable solutions.

On the other hand, a homework-helper site, urges children to “check out The Disaster Area, a fun site from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.” Do we really want our children to think that disasters, environmental or natural, can be fun?

The titles selected here, on the broad topics of air, food, and water, offer, along with the bad news, some possible answers to the environmental crises we face. Most encourage readers to act locally today for the sake of tomorrow. Others suggest broad global changes in the way we see the environment. All offer the chance to think critically about what lies ahead and to make educated decisions as future adults and leaders.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

ARATO, Rona. World of Water: Essential to Life. Crabtree. 2004. Tr $16.95. ISBN 0-7787-1416-0; pap. $9.95. ISBN 0-7787-1448-9.

Gr 4-6 –The sources, uses, and qualities of water are outlined in this easy-to-read work. From the basic question of what makes up water to the more complex discussion of conservation and pollution, students are encouraged to think about the availability and vulnerability of water in the world. Plentiful illustrations and full-color photographs, as well as charts and maps, help explain the central information.

BELLAMY, Rufus. Clean Air. Smart Apple Media. 2005. PLB $27.10. ISBN 1-58340-594-1.

Gr 4-6 –With a decidedly optimistic viewpoint, this title looks at the possibility of cleaner air. Emphasizing positive developments such as free buses in Delhi, India, international agreements to reduce toxins in the air, and Chinese promises to reduce coal use, Bellamy nevertheless addresses the consequences of continuing with current policies and offers simple but effective actions to be taken by individuals to ensure that we have breathable air in the future.

BICKERSTAFF, Linda. Oil Power of the Future: New Ways of Turning Petroleum into Energy. Rosen. 2003. PLB $26.50. ISBN 0-8239-3662-7.

CONNOLLY, Sean. Famines and Droughts. Smart Apple Media. 2004. PLB $27.10. ISBN 1-58340-389-2.

Gr 4 Up –Poverty, and the accompanying inability to maintain stores of foods and seeds, contributes in large part to devastating famines in places such as Malawi, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, and Lesotho. Positive developments in overcoming hunger in China and India are examined, and some broad outlines for the types of changes necessary to conquer persistent famines in the future are given. This slim volume, containing pertinent, although some very disturbing, photographs, packs in a great deal of basic information.

DALGLEISH, Sharon. Cleaning the Air. Chelsea House. 2002. PLB $28. ISBN 0-7910-7019-0.

Gr 4-6 –Global connectivity and its effect on air quality is explained in easily readable language. The makeup of air, the troposphere, ozone, various types of pollutants, and acid rain are among the subjects covered. Throughout, the author poses questions meant to encourage critical thinking about everyday actions and choices that affect worldwide air health. Simple experiments help explain concepts, and lively, colorful illustrations enhance the text. An excellent resource for students who need a basic discussion of the subject.

GALLANT, Roy A. Atmosphere: Sea of Air. Benchmark. 2002. PLB $29.93. ISBN 0-7614-1366-9.

Gr 4-8 –Gallant begins with a comprehensive description of the formation of the Earth’s atmosphere, the makeup of air, and the dramatic storms that are a result of natural disturbances. Later chapters discuss the causes of industrial pollution, the greenhouse effect, climate change, global warming, and subsequent consequences such as an increase of disease, a rise in sea levels, and the possible future scarcity of clean, breathable air. The conversational style helps make a difficult subject understandable, while clear, relevant illustrations and charts make the book useful for reports and classroom study.

GREELEY, August. Poisoned Planet: Pollution in Our World. Rosen. 2003. PLB $17.25. ISBN 0-8239-6487-6.

Gr 4-6 –Basic facts in simple language sum up the problems of air, water, and land pollution for readers who may benefit from high-interest material with accessible vocabulary. Full-color, pertinent illustrations correspond with topics such as acid rain and pollution. Short chapters on solutions to problems relating to pollution serve as an excellent introduction to these subjects.

GREEN, Jen. Reducing Air Pollution. Gareth Stevens. 2005. PLB $24.67. ISBN 0-8368-4428-9.

Gr 4-6 –A clear text outlines the general causes of ozone depletion, acid rain, global warming, and other related topics. Simple experiments help identify sources of air pollution, and doable suggestions encourage participation in breaking the cycle of dependence on fossil fuels and the consequent polluting of the atmosphere. Although the author does not minimize the extent of the problem of polluted air, by emphasizing the possibility of change through small, local actions, she provides a basically positive outlook for the future.

MADDOCKS, Steven. World Hunger. World Almanac Library. 2004. PLB $30. ISBN 0-8368-5646-5; pap. $11.95. ISBN 0-8368-5663-5.

Gr 4-6 –The interaction of natural events, economic factors, and governmental policies that combine to cause and perpetuate poverty and hunger are examined. The scourge of famine in some developing nations amid the overproduction of food in others is discussed. Case studies of individuals and organizations, highlighted quotes from professionals in the field, and questions for debate and thinking round out this informative and thought-provoking work.

OSTOPOWICH, Melanie. Water Pollution. Weigl. 2005. PLB $24.45. ISBN 1-59036-307-8; pap. $6.95. ISBN 1-59036-313-2.

Gr 4-6 –In this basic, accessible introduction, the water cycle as well as several types of pollution are explained. The connections among agriculture, manufacturing, sewage, and the pollution of ground water, lakes, rivers, and oceans are shown using clear and to-the-point illustrations and text, and some easy experiments are included.

PETHERAM, Louise. Acid Rain. Bridgestone. 2002. PLB $23.93. ISBN 0-7368-1360-8.

Gr 4-6 –While concentrating on acid rain, this title also discusses other aspects of air pollution and outlines the causes, effects, long-term implications, and some solutions to the problem. Simple experiments are included, and charts and full-color photographs help clarify the discussion.

TRAPP, Clayton. Polluted Air. Raintree. 2004. PLB $31.43. ISBN 0-7398-7011-4.

Gr 4-6 –Well organized and illustrated, this title offers an introduction to the atmosphere and discusses the many assaults on it. The causes of air pollution and its effects on humans, animals, and plants are examined. The effects of acid rain, ozone depletion, and dirty air on the quality of life throughout the world are contrasted with attempts to counteract and reverse the effects of air pollution. Long-term global solutions are introduced as are local solutions that may be undertaken by young readers.

WALKER, Jane. Atmosphere in Danger. Stargazer. 2005. PLB $27.10. ISBN 1-932799-12-5.

Gr 4-6 –Excellent graphs, charts, and illustrations highlight concerns with acid rain, ozone depletion, global warming, greenhouse gases, and other atmospheric problems. In simple, clear language, both the existing conditions and the possible global solutions are discussed, including additional taxes on polluting industries, use of solar and wind energy, recycling, and the development of cleaner and more efficient transportation systems. The many problems confronting our atmosphere are presented in a concise and well-organized format without unnecessary scare tactics, and the possibility of positive actions allows for a somewhat optimistic outlook.

YLVISAKER, Anne. Droughts. Capstone. 2003. PLB $22.60. ISBN 0-7368-1505-8.

Gr 4-6 –A concise, yet thorough, study of the causes and effects of droughts throughout the world. Current devastating droughts in China, Australia, and the Sahel region of Africa are discussed as well as those in the 1930s in the United States. Also covered are ways to conserve water resources and to plan for the possibility of water shortages. Charts, graphs, and illustrations help explain the subject.

HIGH SCHOOL

BOWEN, Mark. Thin Ice: Unlocking the Secrets of Climate in the World’s Highest Mountains. Holt. 2005. Tr $30. ISBN 0-8050-6443-5.

Adult/High School –Science writer and mountaineer Bowen joins in deep core drilling expeditions atop some of the world’s highest peaks to study climate change. Part adventure, part science, part history, this challenging work foretells the imminent loss of the snows on Kilimanjaro and predicts vast changes in the Earth’s climate. Presenting scientific data in simple language, Bowen shows how economic interests, particularly in the United States, are impeding the critical changes needed to slow, if not avert, global disaster. A highly readable work for interested older students.

CHAPMAN, Matthew & Rob Bowden. Air Pollution: Our Impact on the Planet. Raintree. 2002. PLB $19.99. ISBN 0-7398-4874-7.

Gr 7-9 –Eurocentric in its outlook, this work examines the impact of technological developments on the atmosphere and on the air we breathe. The difficult choices to be made by both individuals and governments of developed and developing nations are posed with no easy solutions. The complicated interactions of economic development, political needs, and population explosions are discussed with a variety of viewpoints given. Readers are encouraged to become educated in order to have an impact on the future rather than just allowing others to make decisions that will affect us all.

Climate and the Environment. World Almanac Library. 2002. PLB $31.93. ISBN 0-8368-5006-8.

Gr 7 Up–The many climates of the Earth are discussed in this highly useful work that also shows the causes and effects of global climate variations. In a thorough examination of the environment, the subjects of soil, desertification, nuclear waste, global warming, and the effects of pollution on food, water, and climate are detailed. Fact-filled charts, maps, and graphs supplement the readable text. A section on recycling illustrates the variety of steps involved in reusing the enormous amount of waste generated by modern society. Information is presented without judgment, allowing students to reach informed conclusions.

DE VILLIERS, Marq. Water: The Fate of Our Most Precious Resource. Houghton. 2000. pap. $15. ISBN 0-618-12744-5.

Gr 9 Up –The environmental and political effects of the increasing scarcity of clean water are examined. Lively and opinionated, the author describes past and present solutions to water shortages and the international politics involved in regional water scarcity. Water pollution as well as the consequences of air and land pollution on the availability of potable water is discussed. The problems involved with water distribution, desalinization, and aquifer mining, and of providing water to poor areas show the subject’s complexity. Provides excellent information and thoughtful suggestions.

HALEY, James, ed. Pollution. Greenhaven Press. 2003. Tr $34.95. ISBN 0-7377-1188-4; Tr $23.70. ISBN 0-7377-1187-6.

Gr 7 Up–Encouraging students to read and discuss opposing sides of environmental issues, and reach conclusions based on facts, provides an invaluable lesson. Under the heading of pollution, subtopics such as the seriousness of air and water pollution, the need for regulation, the complicity of corporations, and recycling are analyzed in essays by leading environmental and corporate figures and conservative and liberal think-tank analysts. This work can be used as the basis of excellent classroom critical-thinking lessons.

KURLANSKY, Mark. Cod: A Biography of the Fish That Changed the World. Walker. 1997. Tr $23. ISBN 0-8027-1326-2.

Adult/High School–Once so plentiful that pails full could be lifted from the ocean, codfish have nearly gone the way of the passenger pigeon. Showing the global interdependence of history and nature, Kurlansky’s carefully wrought tale of the demise of this hardy species is warning worth noting. This readable work can be applied to the problems of ongoing species extinction and the need for responsible use of resources.

MCDANIEL, Carl N. Wisdom for a Livable Planet: The Visionary Work of Terri Swearingen, Dave Foreman, Wes Jackson, Helena Norberg-Hodge, Werner Fornos, Herman Daly, Stephen Schneider, and David Orr. Trinity Univ. 2005. Tr $40. ISBN 1-59534-008-4; pap. $17.95. ISBN 1-59534-009-2.

Adult/High School–McDaniel, an environmental scientist, provides biographical information and philosophical insight into the lives and actions of forward-looking environmentalists with a mission to bring about positive changes leading to a sustainable planet, who are also specialists in the fields of population growth, climate, economics, genetics, and biodiversity. The profiles emphasize the value of individual commitment to achievable goals against great odds. Readable and inspiring, these essays offer a valuable lesson in environmental activism and the benefits brought by the courageous actions of a few individuals.

MCDONOUGH, William & Michael Braungart. Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things. North Point. 2002. pap. $25. ISBN 0-86547-587-3.

Adult/High School–The authors, an architect and a chemist, rethink the industrial cycle in which all items are eventually discarded. They create an industrial model in which products are made with the intention of being reclaimed as “nutrition” for the next phase of their usefulness. The book itself is not made of paper, but of a synthetic, waterproof material which can be reused in the production of other books or products. The concept of true consumption should be part of any discussion concerning the environment.

MENZEL, Peter & Faith D’Aluisio. Hungry Planet: What the World Eats. Ten Speed. 2005. Tr $40. ISBN 1-58008-681-0.

Gr 7-12–The authors visit 24 countries, eat meals with 30 families, and photograph each family surrounded by one week’s food supply. The cost, food value, and preparation are analyzed. From a refugee camp in Chad where the week’s food expenditure is slightly more than a dollar to Germany where it is $500, changing eating habits are discussed, as are the use of pre-prepared and fast foods. Used in combination with Material World: A Global Family Portrait (Sierra Club Bks, 1994), Menzel’s earlier look at possessions of families worldwide, this provides an important perspective.

SCHLOSSER, Eric. Fast Food Nation: The Dark Side of the All-American Meal. Houghton. 2001. Tr $25. ISBN 0-395-97789-4.

Adult/High School–Ninety percent of all American children, and a growing number in other lands, partake of a meal at McDonald’s each month. The implications for American and international eating habits, health, agriculture, land use, environment, worker safety, and other aspects of the fast food industry are carefully detailed. Suggestions for action by concerned consumers to oversee this vast industry are discussed. Reading this will make the next trip to McDonald’s a more difficult choice.

SHERMAN, Joe. Gasp! The Swift and Terrible Beauty of Air. Shoemaker & Hoard. 2004. Tr $26. ISBN 1-59376-025-6.

Adult/High School –This popular and accessible work studies the biology, chemistry, and history as well as the myths, legends, and spiritualism inherent to air. Smog, fog, smoke, pollution, and other indignities are discussed in anecdotal, historical, and scientific terms. From the biology of breathing to the big bang and the formation of the universe and onto the threats brought on by air pollution, ozone depletion, and global warming, Sherman’s personal approach is founded in authoritative science. A voluminous bibliography is included.

SWITZER, Jacqueline Vaughn. Environmental Activism: A Reference Handbook. ABC-CLIO. 2003. PLB $45. ISBN 1-57607-901-5.

Gr 9 Up –This work examines the history of environmental activism from the 1970s to today. The strategies, policies, and controversies involved throughout the globe are discussed. Specific people and organizations are profiled and case studies, documents, and reports are provided. This is an invaluable resource both for research and to provide students with the concept that there are outlets for those wishing to become active in changing the direction of the downward spiral of environmental degradation.

TRIPP, Nathaniel. Confluence: A River, the Environment, Politics, & the Fate of All Humanity. Steerforth. 2005. Tr 21. ISBN 1-58642-088-7; pap. $12.95. ISBN 1-58642-106-9.

Adult/High School –This poetic and practical work uses the Connecticut River as the basis for an examination of our relationship with our environment. Seeing both the need to save what we have and to provide livelihoods for those who depend on natural resources, Tripp presents his thoughts in a flowing, first-person account. Part history, part nature study, this work condemns the ill-advised use of water and land resources and presents a grim view of what is ahead, but emphasizes the power of one to bring about positive change.

WALKER, Pam & Elaine Wood. People and the Sea. Facts On File. 2005. Tr $35. ISBN 0-8160-5706-0.

Gr 7 Up –Part of a series that examines life in, on, and over the oceans, this is a comprehensive and important work. The authors’ obvious love of and respect for their subject make effective their discussion of the crises of exploitation. In clear language, both the problems and possible solutions are discussed. Accessible and valuable, this is a useful tool for research on the ocean environment.

WARD, Diane Raines. Water Wars: Drought, Flood, Folly and the Politics of Thirst. Riverhead. 2003. pap. $15. ISBN 1-57322-995-4.

Gr 9 Up –With the ever increasing growth of world population, the search for clean, available water will only grow more critical, and the need for water may someday surpass the need for oil. Pollution, global weather changes, increased agricultural use, and political strife all affect available water resources, and the author travels the world seeking solutions to the oncoming crisis. Ward’s passion for her subject, thorough research, and analysis along with a personal writing style make this work accessible to high school students.