50 Simple Things You Can Do to Save the Earth

by John Javna, Sophie Javna, and Jesse Javna

Author John Javna makes it clear in his introduction that this is not a revised edition... read more

Author John Javna makes it clear in his introduction that this is not a revised edition of the original 50 Simple Things You Can Do to Save the Earth , which was published in 1989 by Earthworks. He took the original out of print twelve years ago, after becoming convinced that the small acts it advised, from using cloth bags to composting, don’t get at the root of environmental problems. Indeed, Javna writes that he became disillusioned about making a difference until his teenage children renewed his commitment. This time around, he takes an issues approach: Each of the fifty things are issues to explore and act on, whether supporting electric cars, solar energy, and organic farming or making a statement through the power of one’s vote. For each issue—and he advises choosing one on which to focus—he offers an organizational partner, a nonprofit that readers can turn to for more information. He then suggests actions that “Start Simple” (e.g., a movie night, with a suggested film to learn more about a specific issue) and build. A companion Web site offers additional information on the topics and actions, and the top of each page lists where to find more on the Web for each area. Javna’s teenage children contribute their thoughts to a volume that, while aimed at adults, will appeal to many older teens. (Watch for a completely new 50 Simple Things Kids Can Do to Save the Earth from publisher Andrews McMeel in March 2009.) (Age 13 and older)

© Cooperative Children's Book Center, Univ. of Wisconsin - Madison, 2009

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