Coming of Age

Children's Literature

Different cultures and religious groups acknowledge the change from childhood to adulthood at different ages and in various ways. This book summarizes some of these diverse rites and customs. Entering into maturity with its greater freedom, privileges, and responsibilities is recognized in some Christian communities by confirmation and in the Jewish tradition by bar or bat Mitzvah ceremonies at about 12 to 13 years of age. Fasting at Ramadan begins the coming of age for Muslims at age seven. A special party celebrates the 16th year of girls in some Latin American countries when the slippers of childhood are replaced by high heels. Since 1948, a national holiday in Japan recognizes those reaching the age of 20 each year. Going away to school or working and living on one's own is a way of acknowledging adulthood in Western countries. This is the second volume in the series "Rites of Passage." A glossary, further reading list, and index are included. The clear photographs and narratives of personal experiences by young people add interest to the text. 2004, Heinemann Library/Harcourt Education, Ages 10 to 14.
—Carlee Hallman

School Library Journal

Gr 2-5-This series is designed to introduce elementary students to different customs throughout the world. Each topic is limited to two pages of text with a colorful photograph on each one. In addition, young people's personal stories are briefly shared, set apart from factual text in blue boxes. Weddings has the clearest place in collections for the intended audience. In the other two books, menses and circumcision, terms often associated with coming-of-age and even naming ceremonies, are included but not defined in context, and readers may have even more questions when checking the glossary. Menses is simply defined as monthly bleeding. Careful consideration should be given to placing these titles in school libraries.-Anne L. Tormohlen, Deerfield Elementary School, Lawrence, KS Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.