Starred review from August 1, 2009
Gr 5-9-This lively collection of brief essays (and a poem) by 100 outstanding children's and young adult authors teaches through example. Each selection highlights a small step (or steps) taken by the writer toward a greener Earth. From Mem Fox's very serious "When the Rain Refuses to Fall" to Robert Lypsyte's silly "Captain Mean-Green's Ten Rules to Save the Planet," readers are encouraged to reduce their consumption (and waste) of energy and goods. The essays are grouped by location: "Your Home," "Your School." "Your Community," etc., and most end with a practical, doable suggestion, from the humbleuse a clotheslineto the more complexset up a worm compost. The essays also provide insight into the lives and thoughts of many familiar and beloved authors such as Laurie Halse Anderson, Ralph Fletcher, Gary Schmidt, Lois Lowry, Susan Patron, and Rick Riordan. Several pages of Web sites offer a starting point for action and information. Highly useful for classroom and family discussions and science-project ideas."Eva Elisabeth VonAncken, Trinity-Pawling School, Pawling, NY"
Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.