Chicago Botanic Garden

Education — Lenhardt Library

Current Books & Book Reviews

PHOTO: bookcover

Catherine Zandonella.
Green Guide Families:
The Complete Reference for Eco-friendly Parents.
Washington, D.C.: National Geographic Society, 2010.
Paper, 399 pp., ISBN 978–1–426–20542–2, $21.95.

The theme of this reference book from the National Geographic Society is how to incorporate positive action in dealing with “green issues” and the family. The book contains directions on creating a safe environment for the family and how to encourage healthy eating and lifestyles, from birth through childhood. The text considers children in their myriad activities: their toys, eco-friendly schools, entertainment, family vacations, and other events that form their attitudes toward “planet-friendly practices.” An excellent reference, the work is an inspiring guide to parenting young children to “think green.”

— Marilyn K. Alaimo, garden writer and volunteer, Chicago Botanic Garden.