Prisons and Punishments

School Library Journal

Gr 3-6 A more colorful or cheerful book on this depressing subject is hard to imagine. The text begins with the explanation that all societies have rules and that societies have always devised ways to punish people who break them. Many forms of punishment used throughout history are then described and illustrated. The changing philosophy of prisons is explained. The latter third of the book describes prison life today, including the daily routines and the modern philosophy of rehabilitation. The color and black-and-white illustrations and photos add both interest and information to the text. Although its use may be limited to the occasional school report, this is a very clear and up-to-date treatment of the subject. Deirdre R. Murray, Pine Road School, Huntingdon Valley, Pa.