Rainforests

School Library Journal

Gr 9 UpCozic has selected an intriguing mix of documents to present varying viewpoints on rainforests usage. Most of the 10 articles relate to tropical forests, but 2 present opposite views on logging in British Columbia's rainforests. All of the essays have appeared elsewhere, some only on the Internet, others as academic papers or in obscure journals. In short, it is unlikely that most readers will have encountered this information before. Authors include environmentalists, business people, scientists, and journalists. The overriding message is that both the cause of and cures for rainforest loss are complex. That tone is set in the initial essay about the multiple factors responsible for changes to rainforests. Some articles include bibliographies. Anyone wanting to explore further will appreciate the extensive list of organizations concerned about the issues raised in the volume. Each entry in the list is complete with phone and FAX numbers and e-mail and Internet addresses. This slim book will be a valuable source for students preparing speeches or papers and for those who simply want to consider multiple viewpoints on this important topic.Kathy Piehl, Mankato State University, MN