January 1, 2022
"In the natural world, there is no waste. Zero. Zip. Zilch." So begins this child-friendly primer (an Australian import) on trash. Beginning with commentary on humankind's growing waste disposal crisis as a by-product of rapid industrialization and the environmental consequences of excess garbage, Bunting then presents a series of infographics across double-page spreads. A sequence chart shows how waste is produced at almost every stage of "pretty much everything we use, eat, wear, or play with." A second diagram categorizes various types of household waste, but electronic waste is glaringly absent. A timeline divulges simple yet startling statistics about how long it takes everything from a banana peel to a toothbrush to decompose in a landfill. A process map visualizes four places where our refuse can end up: in a landfill, at a recycling center, in the environment, or in our homes as reused items. Yet more infographics outline how readers can "help wallop waste" through reducing, reusing, recycling, and--a new addition to the familiar catchphrase--renewing. The closing spreads stress the importance of activism and volunteering. The brief text conveys a complex subject in an easy-to-grasp format and manages to offer a comprehensive set of achievable solutions. Although candid about the scope of the problem, the book's tone is optimistic. Bunting's illustrations, created using digitally assembled cut-paper shapes, appear against solid backgrounds that resemble colored construction paper and feature children of various races with a range of skin tones. A worthy read that will encourage children to ask questions and to take steps to reduce their trash footprint. (author's note) (Informational picture book. 5-10)
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January 17, 2022
First published in Australia, this user-friendly nonfiction guide explains waste; its origins and consequences, including ocean pollution and global warming; and the five R’s (reduce, reuse, recycle, renew, and “really get involved”). Flowcharts, timelines, and how-to instructions—such as how to compost—help organize information as Bunting conversationally explains why readers should reduce waste: “As their funky filling breaks down, landfill pits let off nasty greenhouse gases... which are warming our planet too quickly. So the less waste we can send to landfills, the better.” Googly-eyed characters of varying skin tones, and various anthropomorphized items—boxes, cans, T-shirts—populate the mellow-colored pages alongside speech bubbles and humorous commentary. This visually engaging primer offers cogent reminders and easily implemented actions fit for any age. Front matter includes an author’s note. Ages 5–8.
April 1, 2022
Gr 2-4-The call to "reduce, reuse and recycle" is presented with humor and imaginative comparisons to drive home the impact of waste on our planet. Written in accessible language, complex concepts are explained through examples young children can connect to their world. From production to consumption, readers get a full explanation of the life cycle of household items and their effects on the climate once discarded. Paper-cut illustrations of diverse children, with nearly identical faces, anthropomorphic animals, and inanimate objects reinforce Bunting's message of interconnectedness with one another and the Earth. Time lines, flow charts, and maps, which present (among other things) the amount of time it takes the Earth to decompose commonly used items, aid in conveying a sense of urgency that will motivate young readers to do their part to protect the planet. VERDICT A highly engaging, humorous, call to action title that entertains and enlightens.-Tamela Chambers
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