Photo by Danita Delimont / Adobe Stock
When The World Runs Dry, a new book by award-winning science writer and Chatham resident Nancy Castaldo, helps middle schoolers and teens become more aware of the world’s environmental crisis.
Q: What inspired you to write this book?
“My readers have news coming to them from every direction, and it can be frightening. Water stories fill the media—from flooding to droughts to toxicity. I wanted to demystify all that noise—to inform, inspire, and empower kids. They’ll be able to read about issues facing people worldwide and learn about actions and solutions.”
Q: How can kids impact climate change?
“Young people can make a difference no matter their age or where they live. Readers will learn from the children highlighted in the book, from young activists in Flint, Michigan, to a teen inventor from Lone Tree, Colorado, who is exploring ways to test water for lead.”
Q: What are some tips to protect our local water?
“Aside from conserving water in our own homes, we’ve got great organizations in the Hudson Valley that people can join to protect our resources, starting with Riverkeeper. The organization has many volunteer opportunities, including their annual Riverkeeper Sweep in May. Another way we can all protect our water supply is to shop wisely. Packaging and clothing production use tons of energy and water. We can shop smarter by avoiding packaging, recycling our clothes, and using environmentally friendly cleaning products. I’ve included resources in the book that provide more options and details.”
Q: Are you hoping kids will teach adults a thing or two?
“I can remember years ago, when my young daughter suggested that I don’t leave the faucet on when I brush my teeth. It was a habit that I soon broke. I hope that teens will be inspired to raise their voices, and those who hear them will act.”
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