Sterngass, Jon. Terrorism.

Sterngass, Jon.  Terrorism.   Marshall Cavendish/Benchmark, 2011.  80p.  $22.95  ISBN 978-0-7614-4977-5     ms/hs E-BNS      

     This well-written and well-researched guide to terrorism examines the various reasons for terrorist acts and offers statistics on their effects.  Famous groups are introduced, ways that governments deal with terrorism are covered, and the role of the media and censorship are presented.  Several strengths make this book a very good choice for introducing the subject of terrorism to teenagers.  First, the author presents two viewpoints, that of the victim and that of the perpetrator.  That unbiased look shows new students of terrorism that people who commit these acts have an agenda, often basing their actions on their own interpretations of religious documents and beliefs or on a desire to make a certain political statement, such as striving for independence in Northern Ireland. 

     In addition to the definition of terrorism and a look at the reasons for the actions of terrorists, the author organizes the book into five parts, thus ensuring clarity and helping young readers divide this rather difficult topic into a structure that will aid in their comprehension of the different kinds of terrorism.  The five chapters include a definition, an examination of the various terrorist organizations, a look at the machination of terrorism, actions that governments undertake to fight terrorism, and finally, several case studies that allow for wonderful classroom interactions and discussions. 

     Another strength lies in the introductory coverage of related topics.  Jon Sterngass introduces thought-provoking issues like water boarding, retaliation and suicide bombings, and he provides statistics about injuries and deaths, which are not presented to scare the reader but to inform him or her.  By broaching these related topics, Sterngass offers the classroom teacher much to discuss and debate.  On the other hand, the supporting photographs are chilling in their portrayal of real-life events, especially the photograph of a suicide bomber with her three-year-old son holding a grenade.  With that in mind, classroom teachers should choose which parts to introduce to younger readers.  For more mature readers, they will undoubtedly find this book to be helpful both as a starting point or as an entire unit!  A timeline, glossary and index wrap up the book.     

     The series is entitled Debating the Issues, and it includes titles about animal rights, global warming, immigration, nuclear energy, student rights and terrorism.  Well-organized and comprehensive, these books study each issue fairly and offer a glossary, a timeline and debate topics.

Martha Squaresky