Water

Reviews the current issue of water supply in the world, providing a description of the uses of water, the reason for shortages, the impact of pollution, and the things that can be done to conserve it and provide for its more equitable distribution.

Gr 5–8— Although each book focuses on a different environmental issue, readers will readily see the connections among them. Climate , for instance, discusses the rise of diseases such as malaria as a result of global warming. Each title begins with a two-page map identifying the specific threats affecting different parts of the world, followed by scientific background for the ensuing discussion. The Spilsburys explore the human need for water, sources of water, purification treatment, and usage. Wallerstein discusses what is meant by life expectancy, the major causes of illnesses, and animal testing. All of the authors suggest possible personal and societal actions regarding the problems and their solutions. Their silence on population control as a basic solution, however, is a serious omission. Overall, these are good resources with vivid and relevant color photos illustrating different issues. Back matter in each volume includes two pages of relevant statistical tables. There are other, more in-depth books on these topics, but the focus on global and environmental justice makes these titles a useful start for further exploration.—Judith V. Lechner, Auburn University, AL

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