Paths to Peace: People Who Changed the World

New York, New York, U.S.A.: Dutton Childrens Books, 2006. Signed by author on half title page. From School Library Journal Grade 4-8–This handsome volume highlights 16 individuals who have worked to improve conditions for others through their words and actions. Included are writers, philosophers, Civil Rights advocates, and politicians, many of whom are Nobel Peace Prize recipients. The book focuses on celebrated individuals such as John Fitzgerald Kennedy, Martin Luther King, Jr., Eleanor Roosevelt, Cesar Chavez, and Elie Wiesel. Also covered are those newer to recognition, such as Wangari Maathai, who works for conservation in Kenya, and Aung San Suu Kyi, who fights for democracy in Myanmar. The well-written, single-page vignettes provide an interesting glimpse into the lives of these people and will pique readers curiosity and encourage them to learn more. Each biography is surrounded by an eye-catching border and faces a full-page illustration and quote from the subject. Made from fabric, etchings, watercolor, and found objects, the collages reflect Zalbens interpretation of these individuals, and the appended notes explain the various symbols and materials in the pictures. For example, Mahatma Gandhis entry mentions his 1930 Salt March to end an unfair law, while the illustration depicts an abstract beach scene sprinkled with real sea salt, and Indian paper borders the text. The accomplished, vibrant artwork and the graceful narrative clearly express each persons character, approach to life, and accomplishments, making this an enticing introduction to a diverse group of peacemakers.–Hope Marie Cook, Eastern Connecticut State University, Willimantic Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. From Booklist. About the Author Jane Breskin Zalben has written and illustrated many distinctive picture books, including Pearl's Eight Days of Chanukah and the best-selling Beni holiday series. She is also a cookbook writer, the author of six novels for older readers, and a painter of abstract art. The mother of two grown sons, she lives on Long Island, New York, with her husband, Steven.. Signed by Author. First Edition.. Hard Cover. Fine/Fine. Illus. by Color Illustrations.