Composting: Nature's Recyclers

by Robin Koontz

Composting turns trash into fertile soil. Discover how composting works and learn how anyone can turn garbage into something good.

Genres: Nature, Nonfiction, Picture Books, Science, Childrens

24 pages, Library Binding

First published July 1, 2002

About the author

Robin Michal Koontz has been writing and illustrating books for children since 1986. Her publications include novelty books, early readers, picture books, nonfiction, short stories for middle-grade readers, magazine articles, and classroom supplemental materials. One of her new books, LEAPS AND CREEPS, was a finalist for the 2012 Animal Behavior Society's Outstanding Children's Book Award. WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A BUTTERFLY AND A MOTH? was an International Reading Association Teacher's Choice Award in 2010. She lives in western Oregon.

Reviews

[CFAITC]

Dead leaves, food scraps, and grass clippings for lunch? Small animals, fungi, and bacteria, called decomposers, turn trash into a tasty compost treat. Learn more about compost and how you can use it in your garden or yard.

[Elizabeth Guzman]

This is an informational book about composting. I enjoyed the little fun facts that were included on every page. This made reading more fun and enjoyable.
The illustrations are cartoonish to help draw children’s interest in. the pages colorful designs are very nice. The color scheme stays neutral showing earths brown and green tones that come out in the fall season. The impotent parts have bright yellow arrows pointing to them to emphasize importance, which is good. It’s also nice that the story features two kids composting, setting an example for the reader.
This book is really informative on its subject. This would be a good help for students doing projects involving composting. It guides us through the process and give much information. After reading students can learn even more from the glossary of defined words, and by looking at the compost extras section. The project featured in the book could be done with students; compost in a bag. This will give the book real life application and might get some kids actually interested in the idea of composting.

[Sherry Scheline]

Every little thing you do can make a difference. Start composting!

[Rene]

Great basic book on the process. Juvenile book.

[Teacher]

Valuable and positive content. The text is a little incoherent and all the illustrations are white children.

[Sha]

I read this book specifically because it was recommended by Cornell Lab of Ornithology. My initial impression was that it might be a little dry/boring for kids. However, by page 13, I thought it got much more interesting and educational. I would definitely read this to kids to help them learn more about composting, what's needed for it and the bugs and organisms that assist in the process.

[Sam Bloom]

Gail, we need to start a compost pile as soon as possible!