Upstream, Downstream: Exploring Watershed Connections (Orca Footprints)

In addition to covering the basics, such as the water cycle, the book explains why agricultures and civilizations flourished in the ancient Middle East as well as how early technological wonders, such as canals, dams, and aqueducts, eventually led to widespread industrialization, loss of vital wetlands, and large-scale changes that threaten the environment.

Gr 3-7--Rae explains what watersheds are, going beyond the typical explanation of the water cycle or the differences in bodies of water. She presents the importance of watersheds in everyone's lives, how everything in the environment affects it, and how people can protect and even improve its health. The narrative style is engaging; the layout makes it easy to read and includes well-chosen stock images. This book might resonate more with American readers if large expanses of land or water were compared to the size of a football field in addition to a hockey rink. A cursory fact check reveals that Mount St. Helens experienced pyroclastic flows in 1980, not lava as the author states. At the end, Rae also includes profiles of people who have championed for and changed the health of their local watersheds. Back matter includes a list of resources, glossary, and index. VERDICT Overall, engaging and informative. Recommended as an additional purchase.--Julie Overpeck, Gardner Park Elem. Sch., Gastonia, NC

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"The combination of Rae's interests and expertise has produced a book that will inform and engage young readers and encourage them to make a difference by getting involved. Highly Recommended."— "CM: Canadian Review of Materials"