What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that this book offers a succinct,
informative discussion of global warming. This book isn't right
for every kid; some children will be upset by its frank, dire
warnings.
Families can talk about any choices they've made -- or plan to make -- to help the environment. They might want to brainstorm a list of ideas and then create signs to post around the house to remind other family members to turn off lights or recycle trash. What do you think of politicians like Al Gore who talk about global warming? Do you think they're being politicians or environmentalists? What effect does media coverage have on environmentalism?
Common Sense Media Review
This comprehensive introduction to global warming begins
with a discussion of the science that drives the greenhouse
effect, emphasizing the need for balance. A simple diagram
makes it easier to understand the way gases caught in the
atmosphere heat up the earth.
WHY ARE THE ICE CAPS MELTING? then lists the kinds of things that make carbon dioxide -- from your pet dog panting to the family car and landfill.
Here's where things get pessimistic: The book doesn't stint with the bad things that are happening -- and will continue to happen -- if global warming isn't slowed down. "People and land animals will have less land to live on ... rivers will dry up." This is alarming stuff.
Even though it includes ideas about things we can do to help out, the book will leave some kids feeling hopeless and understandably scared. Then again, lots of kids will come to this book already having some understanding of global warming, and its encouraging parts may help calm any fears that they brought to their first read.
For children who are ready for the discussion, this is a good introduction, and parents can emphasize the parts they feel are most important for their kids to hear.
Common Sense Media is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing information to help parents make media and entertainment choices for their families.
