Waste (Sustainable World Series)

Children's Literature

Did you know that Britain generates in one year enough packaging waste to fill almost 19,000 jumbo jets? Wow! Now, think about how much is generated world over. I liked the format of this book as the author has chosen to include databank information, websites, and an opinion box throughout the entire book instead of at the end. This way, while reading, I had all the additional resources at my fingertips. The opinion box is most interesting as it quotes famous individuals on this topic of waste and recycling. The photographs add richness to the text and enhance the believability of this world crisis. The author ends the book with an optimistic note and with suggestions on how readers can help. It also gives helpful hints on being a smarter shopper and what questions can be asked of the retailer. Waste is a growing problem, but there are sustainable solutions. The last sentence reads, "...waste can make a valuable contribution to a more sustainable world." With so many problems worldwide it is comforting to know that this particular problem is something each of us can help solve. What a positive book! 2004, KidHaven Press, Ages 9 to 14.
—Kathie M. Josephs

School Library Journal

Gr 5-9-These titles clearly and objectively depict the environmental disasters that lie ahead if dramatic steps are not taken to ensure a sound future. Although they are British based, they are international in scope and use both information and illustrations from around the world. While both titles present frightening scenarios and statistics, solutions are also offered. In Food, methods of organic farming and ways in which to reduce food miles (the long-distance transportation of foods from production site to consumer) are well presented. Waste discusses innovations in reuse and recycling, ingenious ways to use what would be discarded, and changes in taxation policy. The many full-color photographs clarify the texts. These titles will be highly useful for both reports and in classroom discussions on environmental policy and responsibility.-Eva Elisabeth VonAncken, Trinity-Pawling School, Pawling, NY Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.