Cars: An Environmental Challenge

School Library Journal

Gr 4-9-- An action - oriented look at the impact of automobiles on the environment. Willis and Black trace the history of early powered vehicles and explain the workings of gasoline engines. They examine not only the obvious pollution caused by the use of cars throughout the world, but also aspects such as the paving of the countryside, solid waste, and accidents. In addition, there are suggestions for experiments suitable for science fairs. The mostly full-color illustrations and diagrams add interest and information. The authors are often dogmatic in their insistence on car pooling, use of bicycles, and the need for research on alternative fuel sources. They suggest that young people take responsibility for their own actions regarding transportation and that they express their opinions to the adults around them. A valuable addition to the ecology section. --Eva Elisabeth Von Ancken, Trinity Pawling School, NY