School Library Journal
Gr 5-9To commemorate the 25th anniversary of the founding of Greenpeace, 18 popular children's authors and illustrators have contributed their work to this anthology of ecologically sensitive stories. Times and settings range from medieval Europe to modern-day New Zealand to a post-apocalyptic desert region. While each selection carries a clear message regarding the importance of preserving Earth's natural resources, writing style and plots vary widely. Morpurgo's "The Beastman of Ballyloch" seems like an old-fashioned Scottish folktale, while Anthony Horowitz's "Dragon Soup" is a comedic send-up of Arthurian legends with lively illustrations by Quentin Blake. The "Rainbow Warrior" stars in James Riordan's tale of a hero who keeps his people from becoming consumed by greed. The powerful "A Singer from the Desert Came" reveals a young girl's growing awareness that her people, descended from nuclear-holocaust survivors, are wrong to keep outsiders from sharing the secrets of their green oasis. Other contributors include Joan Aiken, Paul Jennings, and Margaret Mahy. Brief biographical information and a description of the Greenpeace organization conclude the book. This collection could be used effectively for assignments on ecology or conservation. The stories are also compelling enough to stand on their own.Mary Jo Drungil, Niles Public Library District, IL