The topic is interesting and the slim size adds to the appeal for kids and teens who need to write a report, but don't want to work too hard or read too much. Sonderberg certainly covers the basic history and characters of the modern U.S. militia movement. It's also the kind of book where the knowledge that the author is "a writer, editor, translator and screenwriter" (not, say an historian) helps you to appreciate the mildly sensationalist tone and cool cover: I can imagine teens picking it up to read out of natural curiousity. But it's not *that* well written (It's no HOT ZONE or MAN EATING BUGS, for example), it has skimpy black & white photos, and for teens who need to write a report, the quality of information is only so-so. If you've already got a copy, it can't hurt to keep it on the shelf: A couple tiny historical goofs and one major historical trend missed (Populism) don't detract too much from the basic overview. But if you need to buy another book on this topic, get the excellent HATE GROUPS from the folks at Opposing Viewpoints. You'll learn a lot.