Stories for Kids Who Want to Save the World

September 1, 2021
A collection of 16 biographical stories about environmental advocates from around the world. Utilizing a dozen or so pages for each profile, this title introduces readers to influential people from a broad range of fields, each shown doing their part to protect the fragile, interconnected planet we call home. These subjects include former U.S. Vice President Al Gore, Kenyan Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai, and Yvon Chouinard, the rebellious founder of Patagonia. Within this collection there is great variety in individuals' motivations and approaches to environmental crises. Each person is introduced with a colorful, painterly portrait incorporating signature elements of their story that begin in childhood and progress in a linear fashion. Written in the present tense, the translated text toggles between straightforward narrative nonfiction and moralistic storytelling, emphasizing the virtues of each protagonist. Non-English vocabulary is clearly defined or easily understood in context. The layout is occasionally broken up with spotlighted sentences from the text that are often disruptive in their placement. More concerning than the absence of sources for information and quoted dialogue are the dated language and approach that include a story presenting the stereotype of the inspirational disabled person, the framing of Greta Thunberg as suffering from and afflicted with Asperger syndrome, and a casual mention that musician Bj�rk was nicknamed "China Girl" at school because of her eyes. Admirable environmental furor is overshadowed by a preachy tone and out-of-touch language. (Nonfiction. 9-13)

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November 5, 2021
Grades 3-6 There's nothing more inspiring than reading about others' personal successes, especially when it comes to those who stand by causes close to their hearts. Exploring the ever-present reality of climate change and how human activity affects the earth, this book features 16 biographies of noteworthy individuals involved in the fight against global warming and for environmental preservation. Each profile begins with a colorful portrait of its subject and shares their words of wisdom in pull quotes that punctuate the main text. Featured persons include Pierre Rabhi (a leader in agroecology), Jun Ma (a journalist in China committed to issues of pollution), and well-known figures, like Rachel Carson and Greta Thunberg. The easy-to-read narratives highlight how individual experiences have shaped each person's unique approach to protecting the environment. This collection will work well in a classroom or with kids interested in learning more about environmental issues, though unfortunately no source notes are provided. Nevertheless, readers will find role models in its pages and realize that it's never too late to take care of our world.

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