  | Once a wasteland : from toxic dump to National Park Author: Muldrow, Diane | |
| Price: $23.28 | ||
Summary:
After decades of companies dumping industrial waste products, the Cuyahoga River valley became so contaminated that nothing could live there. The U.S. governmant enforced a cleanup, including the removal of nearly 400,000 tons of tainted soil. It took 25 years, but the land healed. Now the valley where once nothing could live is Cuyahoga Valley National Park--a vibrant home to diverse wildlife.
| Illustrator: | Jindra, Amy |
Reviews:
School Library Journal (11/21/25)
Full Text Reviews:
School Library Journal - 11/21/2025 Gr 1–3—Via Muldrow's free verse poetry, this book takes readers on a whirlwind historical tour of Ohio's Cuyahoga River Valley between Cleveland and Akron. It begins with the region's ancient history, then explores the Industrial era—a period of heavy pollution in the area—and finally, modern ecological rehabilitation efforts, which culminated in the creation of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Charming and colorful full-bleed illustrations accompany the text. Back matter includes an author's note and a list of four action items to keep waterways clean, though there's no bibliography or list of further reading and resources. This ambitious picture book is unfortunately lacking in other areas as well. For instance, there's a mere glancing mention of the history of Indigenous peoples in the Cuyahoga River Valley, while the use of passive language throughout doesn't accurately reflect how the region's pollution was caused by human action. VERDICT Recommended only where interest in the Cuyahoga River Valley is high and supplementary resources are available.—Darla Salva Cruz - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.
