Want to know what Rick Riordan, author of the Percy Jackson books, has to say about saving the environment? What can Australian author Mem Fox tell us about water conservation during a drought? Noted authors share 100 ideas and personal perspectives for changing the world and improving our lives. Some of the essays, written for readers in middle grades, are serious while others are humorous and light-hearted. Even while talking about the evils of plastic bags, a subject currently being debated by the Austin City Council, Jon Scieszka (The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales) can't help but be funny, sharing that plastic bags remind him of "ratty witches' underwear." Each essay is limited to two or three pages, making for fast reading and encouraging readers to dip in and pick a quick tip. Even older kids will find the book interesting as they get to know some of their favorite authors. A note at the end of each essay provides a short biographical sketch of the author.
Jeanette Larson is a children's literature specialist, retired librarian, and the author of Hummingbirds: Facts and Folklore from the Americas.
