My River: Cleaning Up the LaHave River

If you’ve wondered how much influence ‘citizen science’ can have, My River: Cleaning up the LaHave River is a book you need to read. Not only does it show how young people can identify environmental issues in their own backyard, it also proves that, with passion, persistence and a willingness to learn, they can become the driving force for change. At age 11, Stella Bowles recognized the serious hazard of sewage-contaminated water in the LaHave River outside her home in Nova Scotia, and she was horrified to learn that no one was doing anything about it. Her keen interest in science was the catalyst, but her determination led her to push local, provincial and, eventually, federal levels of government to find a fix. It took over two years—a long time to keep up the pressure—but the achievement was worth it.

Stella’s story came to the attention of neighbor and writer, Anne Laurel Carter, and together they have created this inspiring, well-documented account of Stella’s project. Through 13 highly-readable chapters, readers will learn how Stella initiated and followed through with the work one step at a time undaunted by the challenges she faced, and how each small success along the way served to reinforce her motivation. She was able to bring adults on board by remaining focused on her goal: to eliminate straight sewage pipes that emptied into the river and replace them with efficient septic systems. It’s a noteworthy story of successful environmental activism, as well as a portrait of a young scientist with a promising future.

Once readers get caught up in reading this book, they’ll find it hard to put down. Stella’s strong, lively voice and personality will pull readers into the story and will quickly win them over to her ambitious endeavor. The language and dialogue is kid-friendly and authentic. The scientific explanations are clear and concise, with some supportive details given in sidebars. Stella’s questions and reactions navigate smoothly through the process of developing rapport with her science mentor, doing the demanding task of precise water testing, using technology to bring her results to the public’s attention, approaching politicians and the media. Throughout, her ‘never give up’ attitude comes across in examples of how she manages disappointments and setbacks, yet carries on, regardless. Readers will be fans of Stella’s focused and personable approach, and the way she was able to relate to adults—both those who might have deterred someone with less self-confidence, and others who offered valuable advice. Stella steadfastly did her part because she was convinced it would make a difference and simply expected the adults to do theirs.

Throughout the chronological account of Stella’s project, excellent well-chosen photographs, charts and drawings are nicely integrated with the text. An index will help readers locate various aspects of the contents. My River: Cleaning up the LaHave River, an impressive example of what can be accomplished, should be recommended to any young people who have identified a science-related issue that calls out for change.