India Under Indira and Rajiv Gandhi (Contemporary Women Series) [Library Binding]

James Haskins (Author)

Book Description

Age Level: 9 and up | Series: Contemporary Women Series

Chronicles the recent history of India under Indira Gandhi and her son Rajiv as they have pursued the goal of a strong, united India.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 4-8-- True to its title, this book focuses on the political side of the Gandhi family, with Rajiv emerging as the star and mother Indira and brother Sanjay playing supporting roles. Haskins opens with a brief account of Rajiv's inauguration as prime minister in 1984; subsequent chapters describe his birth, privileged childhood as one of the "nation's grandchildren," and education in India and Great Britain. Frequently, Haskins contrasts Rajiv's modest, unassuming ways with the more flamboyant style of the designated heir apparent, Sanjay. The book includes controversial aspects of the Gandhi reign: Indira's authoritarianism, her coercive sterilization program, and Sanjay's misuse of government funds. Haskins traces Rajiv's transformation from reluctant politican to a respected leader in his own right. The account ends in mid-1987, with the signing of a peace agreement between India and Sri Lanka. Though the author's sympathy is always apparent, he wisely concludes that it's too early to tell how history will judge Rajiv Gandhi. Haskins writes in a clear, pared-down prose; large print adds to the book's readability. Black-and-white photos scattered throughout the text show how photogenic the Gandhis are, but do not contribute significantly to the narrative. --Ellen D. Warwick, Robbins Library, Arlington, MA
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 9 and up
  
• Library Binding: 104 pages
• Publisher: Enslow Pub Inc (May 1989)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 089490146X
• ISBN-13: 978-0894901461
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 5.4 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12 ounces
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #8,584,275 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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