Earth Day and the Environmental Movement

January 15, 2020
A comprehensive overview of the environmental movement from its inception to the present day. Despite the book's retro, somewhat stodgy look, this is stimulating--and critical--reading. Peterson (Cutting-Edge Hubble Telescope Data, 2019, etc.) clearly and thoroughly guides readers through the idea for and inception of the first Earth Day on April 22, 1970. While the sheer amount of information relayed could be mind-numbing in less adept hands--the narrative presents the legal battles and stutter-steps through the last six presidential administrations and earlier--it is told in manageable bites interspersed with plenty of fascinating sidebars. Readers will understand the legal processes by which laws are enacted, an empowering move that counteracts the inevitable feeling of frustration at the infinitesimally slow forward progress. If readers forget the dates and timelines, they will for sure come away with this one thing: that a group of dedicated people can make, and have made, a difference despite political, industrial, and social obstructions. The narrative commendably discusses the historical roots of racial bias among environmentalists and environmental groups (the Sierra Club and Audubon Society "had strong ties to...racist and classist viewpoints" of those who "believed that poor and minority communities were directly responsible for declining wildlife numbers") and doesn't take a partisan political stance, presenting facts evenhandedly. Essential reading. (glossary, source notes, bibliography, further information, index, photo credits) (Nonfiction. 12-18)

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February 1, 2020

Gr 7 Up-With a singular focus on explaining the impetus for Earth Day and the subsequent work of "standing up for Earth," Peterson delivers a manifesto on the environment. Earth Day was first celebrated on April 22, 1970. Millions of Americans joined together in solidarity to conduct coast-to-coast rallies and raise awareness about environmental protections. Since then, policies have been adopted, laws have been passed, and people have continued to protest gross negligence. But the rise of environmental advocacy also fuels the spread of disinformation and polarizing concerns, which Peterson also addresses in great length. Examples of environmental disasters are presented as a call to action. The book, despite its slim size, successfully covers people who have made an impact or are influencing the conversation. But even more significant are the two additions to every chapter: an example of youth activism and an example of the intersectionality of the environment, race, and justice. VERDICT The book, used across science classes or in social justice circles, has a place in public and school libraries-not just as a part of an Earth Day display but as a relevant resource about a dire issue facing the global population.-Alicia Abdul, Albany High School, NY

Copyright 2020 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

March 1, 2020
Grades 6-9 This book looks at the beginnings of Earth Day, first observed 50 years ago, and traces the worldwide activism that has developed in response to environmental challenges. The text concentrates on individuals, organizations, and legislation involved in sustainability efforts. It also discusses an array of contributing factors: pollution, trash disposal, insecticides and chemicals, endangered species, and climate change. Special attention is paid to teen activists, including those on the International Indigenous Youth Council, who are concerned with long-lasting colonial environmental effects; 21 Oregon citizens aged 11-22 who brought a 2015 lawsuit against the U.S. over failure to address climate change; and the 2017 Minnesota Youth Climate Intervenors, court-sanctioned activists who participated in oil pipeline debates. Coverage is current through the Trump administration, and a final chapter considers successes, setbacks, and future strategies. Pages are laid out in colorful blocks, featuring numerous graphics, and include sidebars and boxed insets. Researchers will appreciate the glossary, chapter notes, bibliography, and further sources. This is an accessible and attractive update on a timely subject.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)