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Tracking Trash: Flotsam, Jetsam, and the Science of Ocean Motion (Scientists in the Field)
CCBC Review:
Dr. Curtis Ebbesmeyer compiles data gathered from beachcombers all over the world who find items washed ashore from cargo spills at sea. Recovered Nike sneakers and children’s bathtub toys reveal a lot about the motion of the sea, but the motion the sea also reveals a lot about human civilization. Human debris—shampoo bottles, fishing nets, and other sorts of trash, mostly plastic—gathers in huge masses called garbage patches. These garbage patches ride the currents of the ocean—one is bigger than the state of Alaska. They threaten the well-being of marine life and the ocean itself, and challenge us all—as individuals and as nations—to think carefully about how our actions impact the earth. Loree Griffin Burns is a new contributor to Houghton’s excellent “Scientists in the Field” series, and her dynamic writing, accompanied by ample photographs and other illustrative matter (despite the error on one map), makes for an outstanding photodocumentary about both the fascinating work of science and the compelling issue of the environment. ©2007 Cooperative Children’s Book Center
CCBC Age Recommendation: Age 10 and older
Age Range:
Grades 3-5 (Ages 8-10)
Grades 6-8 (Ages 11-13)
Grades 9-12 (Age 14 and older)
Format:
Substantial Narrative Non-Fiction
Subjects:
Environmental Challenges
Nature/Environment
Science and Scientists
Publisher:
Houghton Mifflin
Publish Year: 2007
Pages: 56
ISBN: 0618581316
CCBC Location: Non-Fiction, 551 Burns