Planetwatch is a beautiful yet saddening look at our planet.
Beautiful due to the wonderful photos of the absolutely amazing animals and plant life that inhabit our earth; saddening because of the stark truth of the damage that overpopulation, climate change and pollution have done to our earth.
I like the fact that it does not sugar coat any areas, from the brutal harvesting of animals for sport or black market reasons, to the exploitation of the sea. It isn’t gory in any way, but it lays it all out in a simple, no nonsense way that may be upsetting to younger, more sensitive children. The topics of animals dying or being killed is definitely one that may not be for all children, and I would use caution if your child is a more sensitive soul.
It isn’t a happy book by any means, but it is an important one. Our children need to know what is going on to the earth around them, whether it’s good or bad and it’s our responsibility to encourage their learning and have an open dialogue with them on the subject.
Reading level: 7 – 12 years
Page Count: 96 pages
Publisher:
Dorling Kindersley
Publisher’s synopsis: Planetwatch is specially focused to show young people how the world works-where food comes from, why floods happen, and why some animals are dying out. At the same time, it encourages readers to appreciate our planet and to conserve its resources, and uses accessible text and powerful images to illustrate the terrible risks the environment is facing. Each chapter provides a wealth of information and workable tips about how everyone can help halt the damage and secure the Earth’s future.
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