OCTOBER 2018 - AudioFile
In a style more actionable than activist, Clinton’s audiobook provides early elementary students with tools to make a difference in their own lives, as well as in the lives of others and in the preservation of our planet. From nutrition to conservation, author and narrator Clinton offers simple science, practical ideas, and stories of real kids making change. Clinton does not have a warm and fuzzy voice, but what she lacks in dulcet tone she makes up for in audible kindness and compassion. Sounding a bit like a cross between a mom and a caring teacher, Clinton delivers the harmful realities of pollution, bullying, poaching, deforestation, and other bad behaviors and promotes small, positive acts that can help. L.T. © AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine
From the Publisher
Praise for Start Now!:
* "A must-have title for school and public libraries as well as young activists' home collections." —Kirkus Reviews
"There's a lot of interesting information here, and teachers may want to use this to spark class discussions." —Booklist
OCTOBER 2018 - AudioFile
In a style more actionable than activist, Clinton’s audiobook provides early elementary students with tools to make a difference in their own lives, as well as in the lives of others and in the preservation of our planet. From nutrition to conservation, author and narrator Clinton offers simple science, practical ideas, and stories of real kids making change. Clinton does not have a warm and fuzzy voice, but what she lacks in dulcet tone she makes up for in audible kindness and compassion. Sounding a bit like a cross between a mom and a caring teacher, Clinton delivers the harmful realities of pollution, bullying, poaching, deforestation, and other bad behaviors and promotes small, positive acts that can help. L.T. © AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine
Kirkus Reviews
★ 2018-10-02
How does a preteen become a voice of change for their community? (Hint: Start by reading this book!)
Clinton (and her editing team) knows how to speak to the middle-grade crowd, hitting all the right notes in this useful and enjoyable guide to activism. A wide range of hot-topic issues is covered, including climate change, health and fitness, and even bullying and friendships. Each roughly 20-page chapter introduces readers to a topic with an overview, a precise bit of history, and a few real-world examples to enforce the idea that no goal is too lofty or unmanageable. Gallagher's line illustrations are intermixed with photographs of kids who've made a difference. The children discussed are inclusive of many ages, races, and genders, allowing a diverse range of readers to find personal connections to the text. The language is simple but never simplistic. When reach words or unfamiliar terms are used, they are defined, explained, and often spelled phonetically. Each chapter ends with a bulleted "Start now!" list that offers helpful suggestions for involvement, balancing advice kids can give to parents and activities they can do themselves. In most cases, writing to an elected official is included, reminding children to reach out and let their voices be heard. The backmatter includes an index but, sadly, not a bibliography for further reading.
A must-have title for school and public libraries as well as young activists' home collections. (Nonfiction. 9-13)
