From School Library Journal
Grade 7 Up-During this past election season, a record number of people became involved in the political process and voted for their preferred candidates. Students who are not yet 18 may feel powerless because their opinions are not tabulated at the polls but, according to Boyers, that is no reason to be silent. She enthusiastically delineates ways in which teens can get involved in politics and can work to affect change. This book fills a niche and strikes the perfect balance between presenting inspiring case studies of young people who have worked toward improving the quality of their lives and a thoughtful examination of the history behind American politics. The author does a great job of motivating readers to muster their energy and organize in order to create safe skate parks, protest against school censorship, lobby for better food in cafeterias, get funding for sports teams, and other activities. Occasional political cartoons are well placed and appropriate, and the list of organizations will be helpful in providing a starting place for teens who are looking for already-existing groups that share the same issues and concerns. A good addition that sends a positive nonpartisan message.
Susan Riley, Greenburgh Public Library, Elmsford, NY
Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Susan Riley, Greenburgh Public Library, Elmsford, NY
Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Booklist
Gr. 9-12. If format alone can inspire readers to pick up a book, they'll pick up this one. Attractive picture overlays, inventively arranged headings, and dramatically tinted story inserts are only a few of the eye-catching design elements sure to please even teens who might not realize their own political importance. After reading the strong text, however, they'll understand the impact they can make. Along with nicely encapsulated history and political science lessons, Boyers includes first-person accounts of teen activism throughout the U.S.; some clever, student-generated political cartoons; and several insightful quotations from political leaders. Best of all, she isn't trying to sell students on anything except an awareness of how their political views are shaped and how to refine and voice them. For further learning, she also includes an impressive 16 pages of Web sites covering activism, elections, government information, and general issues. There's also a thorough bibliography. Roger Leslie
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
