Young Reader Review: No More Plastic by Alma Fullerton
No More Plastic
Author & Illustrator: Alma Fullerton
Pajama Press
(Ages 4-7)
Alma Fullerton makes a poignant plea in No More Plastic, the story of a girl who takes a firm stand against pollution. When Isley wakes up one morning to sounds of distress, she races to the shore where a beached right whale has died, the victim of the plastic that filled its stomach.
Deeply saddened by the senseless loss, Isley is also angry and becomes determined to help keep the ocean that she loves clean and safe for all the creatures that live there. She convinces her family to say no to plastic.
She makes signs and writes letters. And when the people around her start to forget about how important these efforts are, Isley makes a dramatic statement that reminds her family, friends and neighbours that they must keep working diligently towards the goal of a world without plastic.
In prose that is precise and measured, Fullerton conveys Isley’s anguish, frustration and resolve. She also points out how quickly people can forget about something when the original sense of urgency dissipates.
But Isley doesn’t forget. She remains committed to making the necessary changes to protect the ocean and its denizens, and her striking visual reminder inspires her community to take action.
The vibrant, richly coloured illustrations are lush and beautifully textured, and the fact that Fullerton used repurposed plastic to create them increases their impact.
Set in Prince Edward Island, this vivid and inspiring book is a compelling call to action and a powerful reminder that we can—and must!—all make a difference.
Lisa Doucet is the co-manager of Woozles Children’s Bookstore in Halifax. She shares her passion for children’s and young adult books as our young readers editor and book reviewer.
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