Rockliff, M. (2010). Get real: What kind of world are you buying? Philadelphia, PA: Running Press.
ISBN-13: 978-0-7624-3745-0
Summary
The back cover of the book asks readers, “Can you really change the world with your wallet?” It then answers, “You already do.” This nonfiction resource exposes teens to the common items they consume every day and how they are affecting the planet. Booklist calls it, “A clearly written guide for readers who want to translate social and environmental awareness into action.” Thirteen chapters discuss environmental concerns; some of the topics are fast food, cell phones, and organic food. Each chapter describes the issue with an anecdote and questions. A section titled, “Rebels With a Cause” tells the story of how real-life teens made a difference. “Power to the People” sections show how readers can also make a difference. “How Low Can They Go?” presents readers with negative impacts real companies that readers have heard of have on the environment. “No Way!” further shocks readers with information about what they consume. “Act Out!” gives readers strategies to help the environment through what they do or do not buy. Many chapters have a section titled “Fast Forward” where readers learn about future trends. At the end of each chapter is a pullout box titled “More.” Here, readers will find more sources of information such as books, articles, and movies about the chapter’s topic.
Critical Evaluation
The layout of this book is interesting. When the reader opens it up to the table of contents, he sees not a list, but a collage of multi-colored text boxes of varying sizes. The effect this creates is it shows us how there is not a listed, linear approach, but that everything is somehow interconnected. Form follows function here; the same is true of our spending and consuming habits. The information in this book is often shocking and disturbing. One disappointed factor is much of the statistical information is left without reference citations. While the exclusion of the references might make the information seem less credible, the effect the statistics has on the readers is where the significance lies. There are interesting and creative graphics that draws attention. For example, the ear of corn with two screws on its sides definitely raises questions. Color photographs of landfills and destroyed forests also intend to disturb the reader. The book also offers more information in its lists of books, articles, movies, and websites. By doing so, this book clearly tells the reader that the information here is just the tip of the iceberg.
Reader’s Annotation
What you buy has more of an effect on the environment that you think. Read this book to learn what your part is in helping, or destroying, the environment.
Author Information
Mara Rockliff’s website lists many interesting things she has done in her life. For example, she has ridden an elephant, lived on a commune, and hung out with Cambodian monks. She also admits that she has never had a cell phone nor does she watch TV.
Mara Rockliff has also written under the pen names Nan Walker, Eleanor May, and Lewis B. Montgomery. She currently lives in eastern Pennsylvania with her family and enjoys visiting schools to talk about her books.
She can be reached through her website at:
This site has a lot of information for teens and teachers. There is a list of curricular units, ideas, and activities for download.
Genre
Young adult
Nonfiction
Curriculum Ties
Science, environment, recycling, gardening, nutrition, trade, economy
Book Talking Ideas
What are you doing to help the environment? What are some ways people can group together to really make a change?
Reading Level/ Interest Age
Appropriate for ages 14 and up
Challenge Issues
N/A
Challenge Defense
N/A
Why did I include this title?
I thought I was doing a good job “going green” by recycling paper and bottles. Now, after reading this great little resource of a book, I realize that there is so much more I can do and how important it is that we all begin buying and consuming in a smarter way. I didn’t think buying Fair Trade products was such a big deal. Now, I will look for that symbol when I buy things like coffee. The information in this book is fascinating and informative, and teen readers will do well to take to heart its recommendations and spread the word. Today’s teen is more green-conscious than any other teens in history, and they are in the position to truly make a great impact. This book will help them accomplish that goal.
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