A RIVER RAN WILD

A pictorial history of Massachusetts and New Hampshire's Nashua River, from its valley's settlement 7,000 years ago by ``Indian peoples'' until its recent reclamation. An introductory note summarizes pivotal changes: the arrival of the English; industrialization; and the successful effort, begun in the 60's and largely credited to activist Marion Stoddart, to clean up the river and restore its wildlife. Each double spread examines one period or topic and includes a brief, informative text, attractively bordered with miniature illustrations of significant wildlife, artifacts, or scenes, and a handsome, full-page painting. Contrasts—e.g., between the lush valley the Native Americans found and the dying river, sluggishly running red with dye and pulp from a paper mill—are dramatically telling. An important, intelligently presented story that is emblematic of the need for myriad similar conservation efforts. (Nonfiction/Picture book. 6-10)