Reviews

Gr 4-8-The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child states that all children deserve fair treatment in all areas of their lives, regardless of their circumstances. That is the premise of these titles, which alternate chapters of facts with stories of young people in Brazil, Kosovo, Uganda, Guatemala, and other, mainly Third World, countries that are striving for these rights despite many challenges. The stories help to make the situations personal. In each title, the first chapter covers the history of rights for children, providing background information on the efforts of the United Nations and accompanied by the articles in the UNCRC that support the subject of the book. Captioned color photos of children in their countries complement the text and create reader interest. Occasional fact boxes and quotations enhance the information and add to the pleasing appearance of the pages. Education emphasizes the importance and value of learning and focuses on the obstacles encountered by children who have to work, are disabled, are faced with the disruptions of wars and natural disasters, and more. Harrison stresses the right to a good home whether one is poor, without parents, in danger, living on the street, etc. The two titles have some overlap since the topics are closely connected. While readers may find the stories of the children interesting, the subject matter may have limited appeal.-Susan Shaver, Hemingford Public Schools, NE Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.