Our Rights: How Kids Are Changing the World

Gr 6–8—Opening with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and the motivational tale "The Star Thrower," Wilson presents an overview of the ways in which children have worked to make positive changes in the world. Throughout the text, readers will find inspirational stories from a wide variety of regions. One Brazilian teen organized peace marches in her country; an American boy created a website to raise funds to stop world hunger. Each page includes a personal anecdote, an illustration, a quotation, and a sidebar with related facts and photos. Although most students are likely to be aware of problems such as hunger, bullying, and the effects of natural disasters, Our Rights will open their minds to the existence of many more. Topics include gender and caste systems in India, inadequate schools for indigenous children in Canada, and child slavery in Sri Lanka. Other issues, such as underage marriage, female circumcision, child soldiers, and the sex trade make this title suitable for older readers. The book concludes with descriptions of how kids have and can make a difference, including participation in walks and signing petitions.—Erica Thorsen Payne, Meriwether Lewis Elementary School, Charlottesville, VA