Teens in Iran

VOYA

Like most country books, this ôGlobal Connectionsö series provides the usual information and statistics-geography, natural resources, holidays, culture-that might be needed for reports. As a twist on the usual, it also focuses on teen life in the country, relating what a typical school day might be like, what musical groups or entertainment might be popular, what teens do in their spare time, as well as items of interest to this age group like the driving age, the shopping and the dating scenes, and how teens earn money. The publisher uses experts as content advisors for the books, so the information is solid, giving readers an informed and realistic view of life in that country. A historical time line is included, and suggestions for other nonfiction and fiction titles for further reading. Readers are directed to a Web site, where Internet links and a list of additional nonfiction titles are provided. Teens in Iran confronts readers with the picture of a repressive country, where girls are segregated, there is an overwhelming military presence, and teens must follow strict religious laws or face arrest. The author provides examples of how teens are choosing to rebel and ways in which they are hoping to make changes for the future. American teens who expect that life in Canada mirrors that of the United States will be surprised to learn of the differences. In Teens in Canada, readers learn that Canadian teens live in a more liberal society in which same-sex marriages are legal, education and health care is socialized, and the government is challenged because of the presence of many diverse cultures within its vast borders. Based on these two titles, the seventeen othersin the series will likely provide up-to-date and interesting tidbits of information that will keep teens engaged. Reviewer: Chris Carlson