  | Black beach : a community, an oil spill, and the origin of Earth Day Author: Stith, Shaunna | |
| Price: $23.28 | ||
Summary:
Based on actual events, this picture book tells the story of the first Earth Day through the eyes of a young girl named Sam.
| Added Entry - Personal Name: | Stith, John |
| Illustrator: | Lechuga, Maribel |
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (11/01/22)
Booklist (+) (12/01/23)
Full Text Reviews:
Booklist - 12/01/2022 *Starred Review* After an offshore drilling accident has sent oil gushing up the Santa Barbara Channel, it reaches a beach near Sam's home. She and her parents go to see what has changed. Dark oil coats the water and lies in patches on the sand. Other Santa Barbara residents join them and try to rescue sea birds, though no one really knows what to do. Sam is sad and then angry about the damage to her favorite place. She and other children help pack small bottles of black oil, which are sent to politicians. After visiting Santa Barbara, Gaylord Nelson, a U.S. senator and environmental activist, starts an initiative leading to the establishment of Earth Day, which increases awareness and action at Sam’s school and beyond. The writers use sensory details effectively in creating a credible fictional narrative that draws children into what becomes an origin story for Earth Day and the birth of a movement. While the title page features an idyllic scene of Sam and other children playing on the beach, the place is almost unrecognizable later with oil coating the water and sand. The illustrations sensitively depict children and adults reacting to a serious issue and working together for change. A fine read-aloud choice for Earth Day. - Copyright 2022 Booklist.
