Michelle Benjamin

Reviewed by Grandma Bev for TeensReadToo.com

The twelve women whose lives are outlined in this book all shared a commitment to improve the lives of their countrymen and hope for the future of their countries. They are recipients of the coveted Nobel Peace Prize, and the only female recipients since the inception of the award in 1901.

The stories told by Michelle Benjamin and Maggie Mooney in this little book will make you wonder what you can do to help promote peace in the world. The black and white illustrations leave something to be desired, but these women are truly inspiring. It is time that the world honored them for their courage, and every child knew their stories.

We all know about Mother Teresa, that shining example of compassion to millions, but here too is the story of Mairead Corrigan Maguire and Betty Williams, who worked to end violence in Ireland, along with Wangari Maathi of Kenya who helped African women plant more than 30 million trees to improve the lives of communities.

After Jody Williams assumed the role of protector for her deaf brother when bullies harassed him, she became a defender for mankind and declared war on the landmines, which killed and maimed so many. Alva Myrdal waged a campaign against poverty, racism, sexism, and, eventually, nuclear weapons...she knew what it was like to be poor and oppressed.

Other lives chronicled in this volume are just as compelling...you will want to read about them all.

There is a nice list of resources in the back of the book, and ideas on how you can become a "Troublemaker for Peace." This book belongs in every school library, and is an excellent homeschool resource, as well as a wonderful conversation-starter at family time.… (plus d'informations)