WATER: Almost Enough for Everyone

by Stephanie Ocko ‧ RELEASE DATE: June 1, 1995

Students expecting an dry academic treatise on water, its scarcity, and drought will be pleasantly surprised by this lively, informed presentation. To set the stage, Ocko goes to rural Redding Iowa, where it didn't rain for two years. After this sobering you-are-there account of drought's environmental, economic, and personal costs, she discusses of the history of drought worldwide, explains climate and weather changes affecting rainfall, and rainmaking technologies old and new. She covers several case studies that amplify the topic: Antigua's desalination efforts, California's high-tech water solutions, Africa's drought in the Sahel. Each chapter is well-supported by excellent, well-placed maps and clearly labelled scientific diagrams. The reproduction of the b&w photos on ivory stock reduces the value of otherwise interesting visuals. The last chapter on water use is fascinating reading; teens learn, among other facts, that the usual 15-minute shower uses 90 to 180 gallons of water, and that the average number of gallons used by one American is 60 gallons a day. Useful, relevant fare.

Pub Date: June 1, 1995

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: 140

Publisher: Atheneum

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 15, 1995

Categories: CHILDREN'S