Recycling

Recycling is a wonderful early-nonfiction title for children ages six to nine. It discusses the importance of recycling, what kinds of materials can be recycled, and what those materials can be made into. Each page is accompanied by photographs that provide early readers with important clues to understanding the words on the page. In addition to the straightforward information presented in the text, there is another level of information offered in this book—all of the standard features of nonfiction are included, such as an index, chapters, sidebars, and a glossary. A great bonus for this age level.

From wind power to green buildings, the subject matter covered here explores the ways in which technology is being used to address environmental issues. Each book contains three chapters that give readers an overview of the topic, basic concepts, and possibilities for the future, often asking the audience to think critically and consider why or how these things work. The author also goes to great lengths to include the problems associated with these new technologies as well as the benefits, providing a balanced and comprehensive approach. “Did You Know?” sidebars and helpful charts offer more detailed information, while the “Try This!” activity gives students a hands-on understanding of the concepts. The full-page photo spreads are lush and gorgeously shot, even the ones featuring unpleasant images or locations (the landfill in Recycling) and enhance the already solid reading experience. VERDICT A visually appealing series that tackles alternative energy.