Garbage Collectors

Carol L. MacKay is a children’s librarian living in Bawlf, Alberta.

Originally published in the early 1990s as part of the In My
Neighbourhood series, these two titles are now reissued as early readers
in the Kids Can Read series.

Police Officers (originally titled Canadian Police Officers) is divided
into three parts. The first is a fictional story about two police
officers as they work to solve a string of bicycle thefts. Bourgeois
shows how police respond to a citizen’s report, follow with an
investigation, make an arrest, and assist with the judicial process. The
second part is a “Facts About Police Officers” section. The third
part is filled with specific tips that children can use to keep
themselves safe.

In Garbage Collectors (formerly Canadian Garbage Collectors), readers
follow Mabel and Sam on a regular garbage collection day. Interesting
facts and information about the garbage process, from street pickup to
transfer station to the landfill site, are included in the story. Also
included is information on recycling and helpful ways people can reduce
the amount of garbage they throw out.

Both titles succeed in their new format. A few changes in layout and
design allow for more white space around the text, and LaFave’s
colourful, action-based illustrations provide good picture support. Both
are good choices for newly independent readers. Recommended.