Mara, Wil. Environmental Protection.

Mara, Wil.  Environmental Protection.  Scholastic/Childrens Press  2013  64p  $30.00  ISBN 978-0-531-23603-1      elm/ms  series: Cornerstones of Freedom VG-BN    

Protecting the environment in the United States has been a notable, stepwise process ever since Henry David Thoreau published “Walden.”  This book follows this history thoroughly.  It is a well written, well illustrated presentation of the history of environmental protection in the United States.  While many students will be dismayed at the many black-and-white images, there is a good reason for them -- this is a history and, as such, these images reflect the times in which they were taken. Very informative sidebars are found throughout the book, titled “Spotlight On,” such as the one found on page 24, “A Firsthand Look At,” like the one found on page 29, and “Today’s Perspective,” such as the one found on page 35.  The author has made what could be a dullish topic for students into one that is quite interesting and will no doubt engage student readers.  This is an ideal book for research for upper-elementary and middle-school students.  The books in the Cornerstones of Freedom series are wonderful examples of history made interesting and accessible for students.  They truly are “bringing history to life” for young readers.

Environmental protection                                          --Lynn Fisher