Never Again

December 21, 2018

Gr 5-9-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.-Madison Bishop, Plymouth Public Library, Kingston, MA

Starred review from February 15, 2019
Grades 5-8 *Starred Review* The Gateway Biographies series (4 new titles) does a fine job of introducing people who have made a difference in the world. 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. 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.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2019, American Library Association.)