The Courage to Change

July 1, 2002
Gr 8-Up A compilation of stories, poems, and interviews by and with teenagers involved in Canada's Leave Out ViolencE (L.O.V.E.) program. This grassroots initiative provides access to skills and support for both victims and perpetrators in an attempt to end the cycle of violence. The selections are brutally honest with descriptions of gang activity, getting high, and abusive relationships. These first-person accounts ask many questions, and one chapter provides honest perspectives on how some students view school. Most narratives end on a positive note. While the quality and style of the selections vary greatly, the writing is powerful and thought-provoking. The book includes black-and-white photographs by students and a variety of fonts, which adds an interesting visual perspective to the layout. It doesn't have to be read linearly; in fact, the format encourages browsing. A useful title for sparking discussions in peer groups, or with teens and adults. -Tracy Ansley, formerly at Cary Academy, NC

Copyright 2002 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

September 1, 2002
Gr. 7-12. Leave Out ViolencE Youth (L.O.V.E.) is a Canadian organization that offers teens whose lives have been touched by violence--as victims or perpetrators--a forum for discussion and action. Trained as activists, L.O.V.E. youth are empowered to promote nonviolence in schools, community organizations, and elsewhere. This book collects their personal stories, poems, and photographs, and brings their work to an international audience of teens and also adults who work with young people. The selections are organized in eleven thematic chapters ("Feelings," "Self-Image," "Bullying," "Drugs," etc.), and the design includes a hectic, eye-catching variety of typefaces and page layouts. Although the selections are often artless, the authenticity and raw power of the contents will invite empathy and spark discussion. Two concluding chapters contain thematically linked activities and adult commentary.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2002, American Library Association.)