Get Outside!

March 1, 2024

Gr 4-7-Though this book lacks a narrative throughline, the first chapter opens with some basic concepts, including nuts'a'maat, a word from the Hul'qumi'num language describing the interconnectedness of all living things, according to John Harris, an Indigenous knowledge facilitator with the Snuneymuxw First Nation. Subsequent chapters examine concepts like environmental racism and tree inequity, suggesting, for example, that people living in less affluent neighborhoods have less tree cover and so must endure consistently higher temperatures. Side bars highlight complementary stories, such as a profile of Dr. Melissa Lem, a physician who promotes the health effects of being outside, or the Butterflyway Project, an organization in Ontario that promotes gardens supporting pollinators. Many suggestions are offered for kids looking to get outside and get involved, such as joining a local photography club or engaging in outdoor activities like kayaking or hiking. The text is visually striking, each page having a unique layout, including images, text, color blocks, and informal fonts. Photos reflect a broad diversity of races, ethnicities, ages, and activities. References in the text to institutions and resources are almost uniformly Canadian, possibly a consideration for U.S. readers. A list of books and websites for further reading is provided, but there are no citations of sources, including for numerous studies mentioned. VERDICT Though less valuable for research, this book should appeal to readers interested in or curious about the outdoors and could lead to deeper engagement or activism. Recommended for most libraries serving elementary students.-Bob Hassett

Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 15, 2024
There's more than one reason to spend a little more time outdoors. Payne argues that humans are part of nature and should be engaging with the natural world more often and more effectively. She opens with a short history of humans' relationships with the natural world, noting that the "nature deficit" many of us experience today isn't universal; she offers examples of Nordic and Indigenous Canadian practices. She explores how people's abilities to spend time in nature is affected by racial and socioeconomic inequities. The author discusses ways we've learned from nature; how we can harness solar, wind, and other forms of natural power; and how we can adapt in the face of climate change. A final chapter describes nature-based activities and outdoor education. Payne gives readers a list of items to bring before exploring the outdoors and reminds them to respect the natural world. Her Canadian perspective is clear, both in her examples and her suggested resources. The text is accessible, if at times a bit didactic, though readers will likely already be on her side and will appreciate the encouragement she provides. Frequent sidebars and subheadings will help readers follow the flow of the work. Stock photos enliven the text and depict diverse people as well as cityscapes and attractive outdoor environments. Informative and likely to spur readers to forge a stronger bond with the natural world. (resources, glossary, index) (Nonfiction. 9-14)

COPYRIGHT(2024) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

April 19, 2024
Grades 4-7 Trees, of course, are part of nature. But what about that dandelion growing in a city sidewalk crack? However you define nature, Payne contends (with the help of scientists, researchers, and other individuals) that you probably aren't getting enough. In this Orca Footprints volume, she gives succinct, interesting explanations of topics related to humanity's connection with nature, from a description of nature-deficit disorder to the benefits of urban nature to ways humans can learn from the wild, such as biomimicry and designing buildings with nature in mind to fight climate change. Payne also considers diverse perspectives and historically underrepresented groups in nature, relating beliefs and practices from First Nations in British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest about the interconnectedness of humans and the environment without romanticizing these traditions. A conversation about who "belongs" in nature (everyone!) and environmental racism is equally relevant and important. A final chapter with ideas and activities to live and "play" in nature leaves readers with fun, inspiring ways to get off their screens and go outside.

COPYRIGHT(2024) Booklist, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

January 1, 2024
Four informative chapters -- "What Is Nature, Really?" "Nature Is Wonderful...for Everyone," "Let's Learn from Nature," and "Let's Live with Nature," each with several clear subtopics -- introduce readers to a variety of information about the outdoors and human interactions with it. The book is chock-full of detail, with accessible narration and frequent stock photos and sidebars that help break up the pages. Reading list, websites, glossary, and index are appended.

(Copyright 2024 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)