KIDS VS. PLASTIC

In a world that’s being “swamped by plastic,” kids can help make change.

This eye-catching title introduces the problem of plastic and its durability and offers its young readers suggestions and examples for helping to battle this aspect of the “global pollution crisis.” The opening chapters explain the issue, the history of plastic, its long-lasting nature, and its threat to sea life. Three subsequent chapters provide examples from around the globe and offer readers ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle plastics in their own locales. The author concludes with some potential solutions. The lively, busy design features text set on double-page spreads illustrated with large photos as well as photo collages. (Eight spreads must be turned sideways to view.) Further facts are set off in small boxes and other shapes. There are familiar comparisons, such as weight measured in units of school buses; interviews with “Planet Protectors,” often teen activists, and National Geographic explorers; maps; and photographs of people from all over the world (mostly light-skinned). “Take action” boxes feature concrete suggestions: Don’t flush your contact lenses; do carry a reusable straw. “Try this” projects range from “I Spy” photo challenges to directions for craft projects. National Geographic adds this print title to its extensive online collection of “Kids vs. Plastic” links: videos, project suggestions, and teacher resources, many of which use the same material. (This book was reviewed digitally with 10.9-by-17-inch double-page spreads viewed at 86.5% of actual size.)

Familiar content in a new package designed for preteen readers.