Teenage Rebels

June 1, 2015

Gr 5 Up-Informative and inspiring, this collection of 72 stories from American history demonstrate the impact that teenagers have been able to make when they believe in a cause. Barrett exposes readers to the defiance and activism of adolescents who are often overlooked in history books, from 16-year-old Sybil Ludington's midnight ride warning the countryside of a British attack in 1777 to the 2014 counterdemonstration organized by Wilson High School students (in Washington, DC) in response to a hate group's presence outside their school. The author makes it clear that young people have played an integral role in many American social movements. For the most part, he briefly and effectively describes each example from its roots to its conclusion. However, there are many case studies, such as "The March for Principal Baker," where the resolution is either ambiguous or not included, leaving readers to wonder about the outcome. Other entries don't mention any teenage rebels and instead function as opportunities for the author to grandstand about issues that he considers troublesome, such as "'Abstinence-Only' Education" and "No Child Left Behind." Perhaps the biggest drawback is the lack of photographs. Instead, illustrations in shades of black and gray accompany the text and seem to trivialize the courageous acts. VERDICT Though a bit flawed, this title will attract budding activists and young history buffs.-Audrey Sumser, Cuyahoga County Public Library, Mayfield, OH

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