Girl Warriors

Starred review from March 1, 2021
A diverse collection of youth activists for climate justice is introduced to young readers. They organize, they network, they give speeches. They travel, they pick up trash, they volunteer, they establish organizations. They raise their voices, and they emphasize the role of climate justice in dismantling other systems of oppression. Most of all, these young people fight for their right to a future and the necessity of a healthy planet to that future. From a Brazilian girl whose concern for the ocean's health began with her love of surfing to a young Harlemite of Dominican descent whose cerebral palsy doesn't stop her from doing the work, whether it's leading a county committee or going to medical school, these stories enlighten and inspire. Each activist is introduced with a color photograph, birth date, Instagram handle, pronouns, and something she loves. The four-page text of each profile offers descriptions of the activist in action and quotes by and about her, with her activist origin story woven in. These young people are both remarkable in their hard work and dedication and also ordinary in the sense that they simply decided this issue was too important not to focus on--a winning combination that invites readers to get involved. The anecdotes draw readers in, the facts encourage commitment, and the global diversity drives home the point that this is everyone's responsibility and an urgent social justice issue. Engaging, brilliant, and intersectional: a must for shelves everywhere. (resources) (Collective biography. 8-16)

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March 15, 2021
Grades 5-8 In this collection of profiles, journalist Sarah offers words from and photos of 25 female and nonbinary climate activists under 25. As well as young women from the U.S., she spoke to activists from all over the world, including Colombia, India, the Marshall Islands, Uganda, and more. Saoi O'Connor, one of Ireland's first climate activists, uses social media to protest politicians' lip service on global warming. Melati and Isabel Wijsen, sisters from Indonesia, started the Bye Bye Plastic Bags organization to help stem their country's huge plastic-waste problem. Elizabeth Wathuti, from Kenya, founded the Green Generation Initiative, which helps young people to combat climate destruction by planting trees. Each profile shows readers that small steps matter and that standing up for the world is difficult but rewarding. Those inspired to get involved will find lists of organizations to join in the back matter. The inclusive roster also unobtrusively shows that disabled and LGBTQ+ people are part of the movement to save the earth. This collective biography will resonate with and empower readers passionate about climate action.

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May 1, 2021

Gr 5-9-This timely collection about female climate change activists highlights young organizers from across the world. Activists range from eco-conscious fashion designers to sit-in organizers and each young woman's accomplishments are given a few pages. Each activist's biography also includes a photo, some brief personal information, and their Instagram handle, if available. The information is very current as it discusses adjustments being made as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic; however, this could be a drawback as it will likely become obsolete quickly. Notably absent is the ever-popular Greta Thunberg, but this will be refreshing for readers who are involved in climate activism themselves or are highly familiar with the movement. The stories are relatable and inspiring, and readers will be excited to find ways to get involved in their own communities after hearing what young women are doing around the world. While all the activists are involved with climate change issues, many of them are also involved in other facets of social and political organizing and readers may become interested in how organizers from many facets intersect. VERDICT Younger teens and tweens will be inspired by this timely collection of young female activists who are bringing climate change to the forefront. Nonfiction collections serving younger teens would benefit from this title.-Ellen Conlin, Naperville P.L., IL

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