Recycling

April 1, 2017
K-Gr 2-With its clean look and straightforward content, this series introduces emergent readers to several of the planet's sustainable energy sources. Vibrant photos in crisp blues and greens pop against the white pages, while spreads in earthy hues are rich, warm, and reflective of the overall subject. Simple four- to eight-word sentences appear in a large typeface and are easy to read and understand; in-text vocabulary appears in bold green, clearly reinforcing the connection between words and images. Each volume is organized by STEAM component and flows naturally from one discipline to the next, providing young minds with a basic yet holistic introduction to the subject. VERDICT An excellent addition to early science collections.

Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

April 1, 2017
Grades K-2 This title (part of the Zoom In on Our Renewable Earth series) adequately covers the what, how, and why of recycling. The tone is straightforward and factual, while the text focuses on paper, plastic, and food. Specific facts and simple statistics add interest: for example, One pound of recycled newspaper (0.5 kg) can make 2,000 sheets of writing paper. The photos of plastic bottles, compost heaps, and diverse children holding recyclables feel bland, with one striking exception: a photo of a life-size whale made from recycled wood pieces that is swimming in a recycled plastic sea. Although the book is unlikely to capture readers' imagination, it could be useful as a resource for beginning research or reports. Organized by STEAM subject, the book seems particularly tailored to the classroom market.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2017, American Library Association.)

July 1, 2017
These titles introduce the concept of conservation ("Earth has many natural resources. But they are limited. It is important not to use them up"). Superficial facts are briefly explained in choppy new-reader texts and illustrated with clear stock photos. The one-chapter-per-STEAM-subject organization feels forced and makes for a somewhat scattershot presentation of information. "Key Stats" appended. Glos., ind.

(Copyright 2017 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)