Gr 8 Up-Tackling tough topics, this series highlights several ecological issues that have come to fore of the global mind-set only recently. The drought in California, the loss of coral reefs around the world, and the floating garbage patch in the Pacific Ocean are just three examples that are explored in depth. Each book takes a deep dive into historical factors that brought about the disaster and examines the science of the topic and possible solutions. The writing is engaging and informative, some of the titles taking a more narrative approach, while others are more scientific. All of them benefit from back matter that includes flowcharts that show cause and effect, and an "Essential Facts" section that sums up key points. VERDICT These volumes that look at difficult topics are critical reading for all students. © Copyright 2017. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Sailing from Hawaii to California 30 years ago, Charles Moore was disturbed to find an enormous, swirling mass of floating debris that became known as the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Today, the number of these patches has increased. More alarming is what can't be seen. Trash in the ocean is 90 percent plastic, the only product on Earth that will never biodegrade, but simply breaks down into smaller pieces. The smaller the pieces, the more likely they are to enter the food chain, where their toxins are dangerous to marine animals as well as people. Perdew provides an informative introduction to the problem and discusses a few proposed solutions, while noting that public awareness and responsible plastic disposal are vital. A color photo appears on almost every double-page spread, while informative sidebars discuss topics related to the main text. An appended Essential Facts section summarizes the book's main points. From the Ecological Disasters series, this wide-format book leaves readers with plenty to think about, from possible future outcomes to personal choices today.--Phelan, Carolyn Copyright 2017 Booklist