River Wild: An Activity Guide to North American Rivers - Softcover

Nancy F. Castaldo is a former enviromental educator and the author of many notable nature books for children, including Deserts, Oceans, Rainforests, Rainy Day Play, Sunny Days and Starry Nights, and Winter Day Play.

Gr. 4-7. This useful guide looks at many facets of rivers, from geology to ecology. After a general introduction to topics such as the water cycle, watersheds, and conservation, chapters spotlight rivers in specific areas of North America, such as the Midwest, the Southwest and Mexico, and Canada. Illustrated with drawings and paintings in shades of gray, a typical chapter might discuss three or four rivers, introduce an animal species of the region, provide several science activities and a recipe, and profile a riverkeeper (an individual who works to protect a specific river). Sidebars offer additional information, such as a list of birds that use the Mississippi flyway (migratory path) or the effects of introducing non-native fish into the Colorado. The extensive back matter includes lists of recommended books and Web sites for each chapter, a list of riverkeepers by region, places to visit, a calendar of events, and a glossary. Of special interest in communities where school units focus on local rivers, this book serves as a good source of information and projects. Carolyn Phelan
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