by Rebecca Donnelly
Illustrated by John Hendrix
5 stars
This is a fascinating read. In modern society, it’s easy to throw something away and forget about it, never questioning where it ends up. In this book, readers follow the history of garbage and how the relationship between humans and their trash has changed over time. It details where things go that we throw “away”, including what happens in sanitary landfills, incinerators, recycling centers, and anaerobic digesters. It also goes through how garbage connects to climate change and its effect on the planet as well as the communities it ends up in.
Easy-to-read format told in a way that is both humorous and engaging. Each chapter focuses on a single question such as “What is garbage?”, “Why do we make so much garbage?”, and “How can we do better?”. Throughout, Donnelly encourages readers to critically think about their habits as consumers, from what packaging their products come in to what they do when items break or are no longer wanted.
Filled with gross and fascinating facts, insight into the impact of our trash problem, and real-world ways to help reduce waste. This is such a great read.