How We Know What We Know About Our Changing Climate

Starred review from March 10, 2008
Meant to be like a youth version of Braasch’s Earth Under Fire: How Global Warming Is Changing the World
, this beautifully photographed global guide offers a look at how research in diverse fields leads to an understanding of the warming climate—and what children and adults are doing about it. The first and largest of the book’s four sections, “Where We Find Clues About Climate Change,” presents researchers, citizen scientists and schoolchildren examining the natural world and unearthing data about climate. Spreads jump from topic to topic, from rainforests to tree rings, oceanic mud samples to 800,000-year-old ice cores. The empowering “What Scientists and You Can Do” section provides practical, proactive suggestions, e.g., eating less meat, drinking tap instead of bottled water. While heavy on the jargon, Cherry (The Great Kapok Tree
) immediately and clearly defines all science terms. The book would be overwhelming to read in one sitting; kids and educators will find this timely information is best served up via its bite-sized chapters. Readers young and old looking to make a difference will appreciate the book’s hopeful tone as well as its comprehensive resource lists. Ages 10-14.