Ocean Soup

April 1, 2021

K-Gr 2-This picture book discusses environmentalism and conservation. The rhyming text is snappy and the bright cartoon illustrations are appropriately playful for the target audience. The simple and accessible text will encourage young activists, who will understand the damage done to our oceans. Pincus identifies the culprit as plastic: throwaway bags, synthetic clothing, cleaning products, and party balloons are named as the harmful ingredients of this "ocean soup." Kitchen terms such as "blender" and "pur�e" are used to create an effective image of trash being endlessly stirred in once-clean waters. Pincus evokes sympathy for the innocent animals that ingest the toxic brew and emphasizes the fact that many of our own food choices can be impacted. Clear back matter explains the poor decisions that led to "ocean soup." Specific plastic materials are depicted. Ten steps describe how kids can do their part; they will hopefully inspire all readers to work for cleaner oceans. VERDICT This appealing book provides essential information without being preachy or heavy-handed. A definite purchase for all libraries.-Gloria Koster, formerly at West Sch., New Canaan, CT

Copyright 2021 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 15, 2021
Ubiquitous use of plastics has produced oceans of plastic soup left for a new generation to clean up. Rhyming couplets use an extended cooking metaphor to introduce the problem of plastic pollution before calling on "new chefs" to follow the recipe for solving it. The playful tone of the text and illustrations belie the sad facts they convey. Pincus points out that close examination of ocean water reveals "a confetti-like brew" of tiny plastic specks. Plastic trash ends up in the ocean and is "pur�ed" by ocean currents, ending up concentrated in gyres. Her soup metaphor works well. This unhealthy brew is then eaten by sea creatures, large and small. Humans who eat fish are also eating plastic bits. She suggests readers call on plastics producers to stop and that they change their personal habits, as well. Semple's animation-style illustrations feature a diverse group of children throughout. Cartoon seascapes show plastic at every depth as well as creatures who eat it. A world map with continents and oceans shows the locations of major gyres. A final spread of backmatter offers more detailed information at a higher reading level than the primary text. Altogether, this is an engaging, informative package aimed at an audience who will, alas, probably be familiar with the problem of ocean degradation but not powerful enough to do much about it. Fortunately, the writer's suggestions are doable. A lighthearted approach to a sobering truth. (author's note) (Informational picture book. 6-9)

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