Chemical World

April 1, 2020

Gr 4-7-This next installment in the "Orca Footprints" series discusses environmental themes at a level appropriate for middle grade readers. The text examines chemicals, both natural and manufactured, and the greater impact they can have on the planet. The author also presents some history, mostly on chemicals that were declared harmful, like DDT (originally developed as an insecticide), radium paint on watches, and mercury in hats. At less than 50 pages, this easy text is accessible for young readers. Chapters are broken down into bite-sized tidbits, and small boxes on the edges of pages provide personal stories from the author and real-life applications of the abstract science. The entire book is in full color with beautiful illustrations. A glossary and a further resources section are included. Rae does a fair job of making children aware of problems and issues without coming off as too apocalyptic and depressing. The text mentions how young readers can make an impact and suggests changes students can implement in their own lives to make a difference. However, kids are unlikely to use this as pleasure reading without some prompting. It will be most helpful in a science class covering a unit on the environment, or a social studies class conducting a unit on contemporary issues. VERDICT An easy and condensed scientific look at chemicals and their interactions with the natural world. While not something children are likely to read on their own, the book would do well in a middle school classroom.-Sara Kundrik, Gilbert Paterson Middle School, Alta.

Copyright 2020 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 1, 2020
Simple explanations of what chemicals are and why some (but not all) deserve a bad rap. Starting out with the observation that "everything on our planet is made of chemicals," Rae first looks at her own morning routine. She invites readers to wonder along with her what all those ingredients in her shampoo and toothpaste are as well what the environmental costs of growing and processing her breakfast food, or throwing away that teabag and milk container, might be. She then goes on to explain some differences between natural and synthetic chemicals, with special references to plastic and DDT, and to trace the course of contaminants up the food chain. She briefly mentions disasters such as the Love Canal and Bhopal, along with more-insidious dangers like lead poisoning, before closing on a relatively upbeat note with general advice about "greener" practices and attitudes. Though her presentation is simple enough that the only formulas in sight are decorative elements in the margins, she does define significant terms like "chemical reaction" and also gives young eco-activists a leg up on the uses and dangers of classes of chemicals from parabens to PCBs. Family groups and smiling children of diverse nationality and ethnicity feature prominently in the cramped but colorful photos along with glimpses of idyllic natural scenes and wildlife. This consciousness-raiser downplays the more frightening prospects in favor of a mildly cautionary message. (glossary, index, resources) (Nonfiction. 8-10)

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April 15, 2020
Grades 3-7 Whether we realize it or not, chemistry is constantly happening around us. In this Orca Footprints offering, Rae not only demystifies chemistry in our everyday lives but also emphasizes how it affects our environment by using everyday language to clarify technical jargon. The author begins with an introduction to basic chemistry concepts and two chemical discoveries?plastic and pesticides?that have had some of the biggest impacts on the planet. As she explains synthetics, toxicants, pollutants, trickster chemicals (e.g., endocrine disrupters), and more chemical terminology, Rae describes how plastics and pesticides, as well as mercury, lead, and other chemicals, harm and poison food chains (including humans!), water supplies, the air, and other components of ecosystems. The author recognizes that this topic can be overwhelming to students and concludes with a chapter on green chemistry and how some young people are living more sustainably around the globe. Numerous color photos, sidebars, and the author's personal interactions with chemistry keep the topic accessible and relatable. An important book to help children understand and protect their world.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)