Going Wild: Helping Nature Thrive in Cities

Gr 4–7—Mulder adds to her catalog of environmentally focused titles with this account of all of the ways nature has to adapt to urban environments. There are a lot of riveting ideas briefly discussed here, including the connection between rats and the bubonic plague, the history of forcing Indigenous children into residential schools, and the connection between microbes and mental health. The book's biggest challenge is its effort to explain so many complex historical topics prior to exploring the current, delicate urban ecosystem. However, the book more successfully explains the enormous impact human habitation has on the surrounding natural world. Sidebars include "Wild Facts" and "Making Tracks" that provide some extra fun information as well as personal anecdotes from the author. A glossary of unfamiliar vocabulary words (such as habitecture) is also helpful. There are also suggestions on how readers can improve their relationship with nature by composting, planting seeds, and spending more time enjoying the outdoors.