Climate Champions

January 1, 2023
Fifteen women, each in her own way an environmental advocate, set examples for those interested in climate science and justice. Climate change is a crisis that the individuals profiled in this book tackle head-on with urgency and hope. As Sarah assures readers in her introduction, there is still time for us to make necessary changes. The book is organized into three sections: "Challenge the System," "Hold Fast to Science," and "Take a Stand for Justice," with miniprofiles of additional trailblazers as well as helpful contextual information (e.g., "What Does a Conservation Biologist Do?") appearing in text boxes. Taken together, the chapters demonstrate the breadth of ways to get involved, no matter one's age or professional background. Many of the subjects--including Wanjiku Gatheru, a young Rhodes Scholar and the daughter of Kenyan immigrants to the U.S.; Trimita Chakma, an Indigenous woman from Bangladesh who is a feminist advocate for grassroots organizations; and Tori Tsui, a documentary filmmaker from New Zealand and Hong Kong who is an activist for diverse representation--point out that those in the Global South who are most affected by climate change also have the least to do with creating these problems. Each subject's social media handles are included, and terms such as eco anxiety, environmental justice, climate resilience, and intersectional environmentalism are explained in context. This compact and useful resource effectively highlights critical voices. An inspiring collective biography that is also an empowering call to action. (resources, podcasts, recommended reading, notes) (Nonfiction. 12-18)

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March 1, 2023

Gr 7 Up-The biographies of 15 climate activists focus on their path to success, field of study, and day-to-day life. Each vignette is approximately 10 to 15 pages, containing many personal quotes, thus giving the feel of a personal conversation rather than a textbook biography. Scientists and activists from around the world are presented without excess glorification, allowing readers to see themselves in the stories. Additionally, many of the featured women, such as Wanjiku "Wawa" Gatheru, are young, and their voices are relatable to teens. Without an index or facts, such as birthdates, this book is less useful as a research tool and more appealing to future climate activists who will be inspired by the stories and find guidance through the women's paths to success. The writing is captivating and will engage anyone even slightly interested in climate change or strong female role models. No photos or illustration are included. Contains a table of contents, acknowledgments, referenced resources and podcasts, and notes. VERDICT This book is a solid choice for libraries looking to inspire teens interested in climate change.-Kate Rao

Copyright 2023 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from March 1, 2023
Grades 8-12 *Starred Review* This book promises an introduction to 15 women climate champions, but it delivers far more. There are 15 insightful, chapter-long biographical profiles of contemporary, awe-inspiring scientists, activists, environmentalists, teachers, and journalists, each section including a call to action, plus social media contact information and suggestions on how to get directly involved. Almost every entry also offers brief asides about additional women colleagues, mentors, and pioneers in similar fields, highlighting partnerships and special interest groups and even international networks. Many of the featured women are BIPOC; others are trans or queer, and their entries concentrate on how their work benefits marginalized populations, whether indigenous peoples from the Global South or urbanites living in low-income areas. The profiles describe education and career paths, helpfully showing how many of the subjects had different careers in mind before transitioning to climate activism. These women share the joy they felt when they found other women professionals who shared the same passions, and teen readers will find relatable role models who prove there are all kinds of spaces where diversity is welcomed. The rich back matter includes annotated bibliographies and chapter notes; the women's stories offer hope and inspiration. This makes a great addition to STEM collections.

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