Kids Who Kill

VOYA - Cynthia L. Blinn

This book is highly readable, yet chilling. Compelling case histories interwoven through this informational text ground readers in the ugliness of reality-kids do kill-while providing hope for the future. Silverstein examines which children become killers and why, presenting statistics to contemplate: "[g]uns are the second leading cause of death among Americans age ten to nineteen," and "[t]here are more gun dealers in America than there are gas stations." In considering societal influences, Silverstein discusses violence at home and in the media, asserting, "Violence in rapper songs has generated violence in real life." The case of the Menendez brothers receives a thorough and impartial review, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions. Silverstein explores the juvenile justice system's history and future, surveying the different options accorded society through punishment, rehabilitation, and prevention. Examples illustrate how such strategies as intervention programs can succeed. "In the inner cities, guns, gangs, and drugs have made killing a career path for kids," yet, "even the most at-risk kids can rise above an environment of crime and lead honest, productive, and happy lives." Although written for young adults, Kids Who Kill reached me; I found many case histories so graphic I shuddered and had to set aside my reading. This text would be best incorporated into a classroom or youth-service curriculum. Index. Photos. Source Notes. VOYA Codes: 5Q 2P S (Hard to imagine it being any better written, For the YA with a special interest in the subject, Senior High-defined as grades 10 to 12).

School Library Journal

Gr 7 UpA thoroughly researched, insightful look at the histories, motives, and tragic results of juvenile murders in our society. Well-known cases, such as those of the Menendez brothers, are presented as well as numerous lesser-known cases of juveniles murdering strangers, acquaintances, or family members. These incidents are not merely chronicled as cold, isolated facts, but are examined in a thoughtful manner, as Silverstein delves into the situations, family histories, and conditions that motivated or compelled the crimes. One chapter outlines the psychological and social problems underlying the psyches of many young killers. Another is devoted to a discussion of the juvenile-justice system. Yet another describes organizations and programs formed to work with children at risk before their energies are misdirected. The text is fairly dense but not overly scholarly. A few average-quality black-and-white photographs appear throughout but do little to augment the printed content. Silverstein handles this sensitive subject in an evenhanded, intelligent manner. She documents extensive research and is not prone to personal commentary or bias. This book is an important addition to the body of socially relevant nonfiction for young adults and is especially suited for research projects.Joan Soulliere, formerly at Wenham Public Library, MA