Peace and Me

Gr 2–4—What is peace and what does it mean to each of us? Mantras defining the meaning of peace in all of its manifestations introduce young readers to a variety of noted individuals from all over the globe, lauded for their achievements across a wide spectrum of fields. Vibrantly bold, lush cut-paper and fabric collages provide a rich visual feast that is stunning and uplifting. A world map allows students to locate each medalists' country and, much like the appliqué quilt it resembles, reminds readers that each one of us contributes to the wholeness and beauty of the world. This is truly a moving book. Children who delight at poring over intricate images will find no shortage of places to look; indeed, just when one seems to have seen it all, more details reveal themselves in the striking illustrations. The range of time periods represented is also a plus, from contemporary activists such as Malala Yousafzai, to those of the past like Jane Addams.