Awards

• Children's Book Committee at Bank Street College Best Children's Book of the Year

Overview

This biography of a movement and the teen activists behind it delves into the quest for gun safety legislation in light of the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida.

Full Product Details

9781541552708

Table of Contents

Reviews

Though the February 14, 2018, shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, which resulted in the deaths of 17 people, was a highly politicized and emotional event, this chronicle presents the facts of the shooting and its aftermath in matter-of-fact language, supplemented with high-quality photographs. Back matter includes a time line of events, a bibliography, a source list, and further reading, providing those who wish to seek out more information ample resources to do so. Though the writing is accurate and specific, at times Braun dulls the severity of the circumstances in an apparent attempt at nonpartisanship. For instance, he euphemistically describes those who accuse Parkland activist David Hogg of being a 'crisis actor' as 'not always kind.' VERDICT As one of the first books about this shooting and the activism that resulted from it, this would be a useful addition to large middle grade nonfiction collections, or to libraries whose tween readers seek out books on current events. However, most libraries would be better served directing their patrons to the speeches and essays of the activists themselves. --School Library Journal --Journal

Though the February 14, 2018, shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, which resulted in the deaths of 17 people, was a highly politicized and emotional event, this chronicle presents the facts of the shooting and its aftermath in matter-of-fact language, supplemented with high-quality photographs. Back matter includes a time line of events, a bibliography, a source list, and further reading, providing those who wish to seek out more information ample resources to do so. Though the writing is accurate and specific, at times Braun dulls the severity of the circumstances in an apparent attempt at nonpartisanship. For instance, he euphemistically describes those who accuse Parkland activist David Hogg of being a 'crisis actor' as 'not always kind.' VERDICT As one of the first books about this shooting and the activism that resulted from it, this would be a useful addition to large middle grade nonfiction collections, or to libraries whose tween readers seek out books on current events. However, most libraries would be better served directing their patrons to the speeches and essays of the activists themselves.--School Library Journal -- Journal The Gateway Biographies series does a fine job of introducing people who have made a difference in the world. A welcome addition to this circle is Aly Raisman, which profiles the Olympic medalist and U.S. gymnastics team captain. Along with detailing her hard work to achieve her goals, the book discusses the sexual-abuse scandal surrounding team doctor Larry Nassar and how Raisman has become an advocate for victim organizations. Martin Luther King Jr. gives a rather staid examination of an already well-covered life. Few of King's speeches or writings are quoted, but the trajectory of activism makes for interesting reading. Never Again breaks new ground as it tells the story of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School students who became activists after 17 fellow students were killed during a school shooting. Individual students, like David Hogg and Emma Gonzalez, are profiled, and their efforts for stricter gun laws are detailed, showing how effective teen activism can be. Taylor Swift spotlights the pop star's determination to be in the music business, both as a writer and performer, clearly conveying how pursuing her dreams also meant giving up certain things, for instance, a normal teenage life. These books are well written and, for the most part, quite engaging. Sharp photographs and a judicious use of sidebars make for an attractive format that adds to the books' appeal.--starred, Booklist -- Journal

""[B]reaks new ground as it tells the story of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School students who became activists after 17 fellow students were killed during a school shooting. Individual students, like David Hogg and Emma Gonzalez, are profiled, and their efforts for stricter gun laws are detailed, showing how effective teen activism can be.""—starred, Booklist ""[A] useful addition to large middle grade nonfiction collections, or to libraries whose tween readers seek out books on current events.""—School Library Journal

Author Information

Eric Braun has written dozens of books for readers of all ages and edited hundreds more. He is a McKnight fellow and a nice fellow, and he likes to ride his bike really far and really fast. He lives in Minneapolis with his wife and two sons, some of whose antics have found their way into his books (unbeknownst to them).

Tab Content 6

Customer Reviews

Recent Reviews

Countries Available