Forest Talk

December 21, 2018

Gr 4-8-Though some humans (like the Mbuti Pygmies in the Democratic Republic of Congo) respect and treasure the gifts of trees, overall deforestation is increasing worldwide. Koch (3D Printing: The Revolution in Personalized Manufacturing) covers tree basics (types, anatomy) and details how trees fit into the water cycle, the carbon cycle, and the ways they contribute to a healthy environment. Koch includes research on "mother trees," the mycorrhizal network some trees use for communication, and new discoveries about life in the forest canopy. The final chapter outlines next steps students can take to help forests survive, so that shinrin-yoku, or "forest bathing" (immersing oneself among trees to renew body and mind) will continue to be an option for all. Clear photos and graphics enhance understanding, and source notes, a glossary, a selected bibliography, further information, and an index make this helpful for study. Scientist profiles highlight some of the researchers whose works appear in the book. VERDICT Outdoorsy readers of all types will enjoy this title. A good choice for ecology units, science classes, and budding scientists as well.-Maggie Knapp, Trinity Valley School, Fort Worth, TX

December 15, 2018
Readers discover the indispensable functions of trees and why they are so important to the health of humans and the planet. Beginning with a sketch of the nature and scale of the problems of deforestation and forest degradation, Koch (3D Printing, 2017) goes on to describe the many uses of trees, including being sources of ancient and modern medicines, providing oxygen, protecting against drought, and fighting climate change. The body of the book explores numerous topics in detail, including the health benefits for humans of walking in the woods, ecosystems in the forest canopy, and communication between trees, in a section that covers the pioneering work of Dr. Suzanne Simard. Other profiles focus on scientists and environmentalists such as Wangari Maathai. Transitions between sections are smooth; the narrative text is both clear and engaging. Color photographs give a personal feel to the individual stories, and diagrams depicting the water cycle, the "Wood Wide Web," and more clarify natural processes. The international focus of the book demonstrates the interconnectedness of the issues affecting trees and humans alike. It ends on a hopeful note, offering readers concrete suggestions for things they can do to support trees and the environment.Packed with fascinating information, inspiring stories, and a call to action, this book delivers a powerful message in an effective package. (source notes, glossary, bibliography, resources, index) (Nonfiction. 12-15)

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February 1, 2019
Grades 8-11 This informative book introduces basic facts about trees and expands it with recent research, emphasizing how trees communicate with each other and why protecting them is vital to human health and welfare, as well as to the future of Earth's ecosystem. Based on studies that began with Suzanne Simard's work in the 1990s, the most fascinating section describes forest trees sharing water, carbon, and nutrients; communicating by chemical signals through the air and electrical signals though their roots; and connecting with certain other trees via underground fungal networks. In addition to scientific literature, Koch's research includes interviews with three of the many scientists profiled, a geographer who uses remote sensing technology to study the regrowth of forests, a forest ecologist who discovered roots in the canopies of trees, and a forest economist who researches the effects of nature on children. Illustrated with colorful photos and diagrams, the chapters include many relevant sidebars and articles on significant individuals. An intriguing volume that describes the surprising hidden lives of trees and underscores their key role in our world.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2019, American Library Association.)