A well-meant but not particularly useful call to eco-action combines brief descriptions of several habitats and common threats to them with references to environmental initiatives undertaken-often by children-in various countries, plus mentions of various forms of waste and pollution. Along with being careless with her facts-no, "sustainable" farming is not a new approach, nor is air "made mostly of two gases: oxygen and carbon dioxide"-the author offers vague, often impractical "Action Tips" and wanders into strange territory near the end with allusions to family planning and the unhealthy detritus of warfare. Cartoon illustrations add more decoration than information. Young activists will draw better information and direction from 50 Simple Things Kids Can Do To Save the Earth (1990), or Lorbiecki's own Earthwise series (1992). (Nonfiction. 8-10)

Environmentalism for kids is the thrust of this book. Every major topic of wildlife conservation, ecology care, and general environmental "good stewardship" is touched on here. Color photographs, color drawings and other visuals, and the layout give the feel of a magazine. The book does not discuss any area in depth, but it does do a good job summarizing areas of concern. Some examples of what the book covers include: saving species, recycling, keeping of chickens in small cages, and water conservation. The book's title gives readers its theme: the book is meant to be a mini action guide for kids. The pages are filled with small things kids can do (or suggest to their parents to do) to help care for the Earth. Recommended. Mark Westhoff, Director of Technology, Lincolnshire-Prairie View School District 103, Lincolnshire, Illinois

Gr 4-7-Giving kids the idea that they have power to effect change is the basic premise of this work. Many of the Earth's environmental problems-climate change; deforestation; shrinking habitat; species extinction; water, air, noise, and light pollution-as well as global conflict and overpopulation are addressed. For each challenge, a success story is shared and an action tip is put forth to help readers do their small share to address the problem. Positive and upbeat with bright photos and illustrations and a direct tone, the message delivered is that if properly informed and motivated, individuals can help the challenges, however monumental, to be met. Many pertinent and informative Web sites are listed, but while the book states that "Libraries carry books and movies on all the great topics in this book," no titles for further reading are offered.-Eva Elisabeth VonAncken, Trinity-Pawling School, Pawling, NY Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.