Gr 5 Up-This well-researched volume provides a thorough introduction to the world of twins. The first chapter covers conception, reasons for recent increases in multiple births, identical twins, and animal twins. Next, the author uses quotes and photos to introduce readers to five sets of twins, including a young brother and sister living in Brooklyn, NY; identical sisters who are dealing with the pending marriage of one of the twins; and 83-year-old identical brothers who have led very different lives. A chapter on twins separated at birth relates the amazing stories of several pairs of siblings and explains the importance of their role in scientific research. In addition to mentioning some well-known families, the section on multiples also raises ethical questions about the cost, health risks, and parental stress involved with this type of birth. Jussim also discusses "selective termination," and the dangers of having too much publicity, as in the case of the Dionne quintuplets. The section on conjoined twins provides explanations about this rare occurrence, a historical survey of famous conjoined twins, and a look at two pairs of these siblings who are alive today. Black-and-white photos add interest and intimacy to the clearly written text, which pays careful attention to the thoughts and feelings of the individuals discussed. A list of resources (publications, Web sites, etc.) and source notes are also included. Although this book is not as visually appealing as Donna M. Jackson's Twin Tales (Little, Brown, 2001), Jussim provides more detail and delves more deeply into ethical issues.-Joy Fleishhacker, formerly at School Library Journal
Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
Product Description
Twins hold a special fascination for both children and grown-ups. We love to look at them, hear stories about them, and best of all, meet them. In the United States today, there are more twins than ever before. Double Take: The Story of Twins is an in-depth introduction to the lives of twins, multiples, and conjoined twins. Readers will learn why twinning takes place and meet five sets of twins. They will read amazing stories about twins who were separated at birth only to meet years later, stories about twins who marry twins, and profiles of families with bigger broods, including the famous McCaughey Septuplets and the Dionne Quintuplets. Readers also have the special opportunity to meet a set of conjoined twins, Brittany and Abigail Hensel, who, despite a rare and challenging condition, have developed into down-to-earth and very happy young ladies. Illustrated with over forty-five fabulous twin photographs, Double Take is a thorough and captivating look at what makes us so curious about twins.
