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Stella is on a school field trip and sees garbage strewn on the side of the road. Later, she witnesses her peers adding to the litter. Something has to be done.
The author lays out the problem after developing the protagonist, Stella, introducing readers to an imperfect but responsible and responsive little girl that most children would want to model. However, the character that Fons creates is more than a good example. She is a leader. "Let's start a group to continue keeping our school grounds clean ...," Stella says, and thus the Pickup Pals club is born. Stella successfully gets others involved with her positive attitude and strong spirit: "...other students joined her. With her happy smile and willing spirit, Stella made a game of it all."
Fons' story is to the point, and the illustrations by James Yono are spot-on, representing multiple races and ages. The book also shows loving and caring attitudes, as seen when one child appears to be adorably watching his baby sibling. After implying that environmentalism is cool, Stella also points out that one's surrounding area is nicer when clean. And finally, she reminds children that working together makes making a difference fun. The book is a perfect read-aloud for preschoolers through second grade. The discussion questions address other environmental concepts besides common expressions like "trash, yuck." The book also teaches responsibility, recycling, and taking pride in one's environment. The writing and illustrations are excellent, but beyond that, the book is full of take-action ideas for classes, families, or young organizers. Budding leaders will be spellbound by the ideas.