Ozone

School Library Journal

Gr 7 Up-- A unique book because of its treatment of ozone both as a pollutant in the lower atmosphere and as a vital element in the upper atmosphere. Although ozone has been discussed in books such as Marshall's The Air We Live In (Coward, 1968; o.p.), its role in the blockage of ultraviolet radiation and the phenomenon of the ``ozone hold'' is not addressed. The bibliography attests to Gay's extensive research, and the book is a superb summation of the latest information. Also, it emphasizes the interrelated nature of all environmental problems including acid deposition and the greenhouse effect. The only drawback is that because many chemicals and agencies are known by acronyms, occasional paragraphs appear to be little more than alphabet soup, and it is sometimes necessary to look back to the first mention of an abbreviation for identification. However, the logical arrangement, the clear exposition of scientific concepts, and the impressive research commend this book and outweigh this minor inconvenience. --Meryl Silverstein, formerly at Meyer Levin Junior High School, Brooklyn