These new additions to the OISE Library attempt to cultivate a sense of urgency and relevancy in the teaching of Geography and Social Studies.
The Mangrove Tree tells the story of Dr. Gordon Sato and the Manzanar Project’s work in Eritrea. Through simple prose and colourful, papier-mâché collages, the book discuses complex topics like sustainable development and hunger for younger readers in an approachable fashion. Roth and Trumbore’s story could be used as a vehicle for further discussion on the fragility and interconnectedness of ecological systems.
Teaching Secondary Geography as if the Planet Matters explores past, present and future pedagogical approaches to teaching Geography. It argues against ‘objective’, disconnected approaches to the subject in an effort to foster committed, environmentally aware students in the wake of future global threats such as climate change and food scarcity. Morgan also includes case studies and featured classroom activities.
Matt Phelan’s graphic novel, The Storm in the Barn, also provides opportunities for classroom discussions about geography, weather & their impact on our lives. The narrative centres around Jack, an eleven year old Kansas boy growing up during the 1930s Dust Bowl. At times gritty and likely unsuitable for younger readers, Phelan’s soft watercolour art and supernatural story depict an entertaining world of meteorological extremes.