Arctic Thaw: Climate Change and the Global Race for Energy Resources

Reviewed by: Jan Hamilton - Long Creek Center, South Portland., Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: June 1, 2015

Review

As the ice continues to melt in the arctic the political climate is heating up. McPherson's research demonstrates that climate change is indeed taking place in the Arctic regions. This slim book goes beyond the usual arguments exposing the political arguments between countries who claim rights to waterways and natural resources. From legal rights to traversing the waterways to the installation of bases in the Arctic this book looks at the major players who want to profit as the ice melts. It also considers the future of the indigenous population and wildlife who reside in the Arctic.

The author has used current sources, mostly from publications and websites. She goes beyond science discussing what motivations Greenpeace to protest and considers the future of the indigenous population. The book is well researched and formatted for the use of middle grade students. Title pages have an attractive green-gray ice illustration that enhances the text. Color photos complement the factual content and the end pages provide additional information.

Add this to middle school learning centers and to public libraries.

Overall Book Score: very good