Starred Review ALA Booklist
(Sat Oct 01 00:00:00 CDT 2016)
Starred Review The Captured World History series examines iconic photographs, gives the story behind them and their larger historical perspective, and then focuses in on the work of the photographer and the image's evolution. In Che Guevara's Face, the book begins at the funeral for those killed in an explosion at the Havana dockyards. Guevara, one of the grieving marchers, was caught looking defiant and bold by photographer Alberto Korda, and this image has inspired freedom fighters and civil rights activists around the globe. After this introduction, the book delves into Cuban history, the country's tangled relationship with the U.S., and finally the image itself: Korda's methods and how the photo became symbolic, even as the picture was changed (e.g., when the color red was added to the black-and-white photograph). The books in the series are handsomely designed and visually do their subjects justice. The fact-filled texts are inviting but never talk down to the audience. Mark this series as a great way to discuss history, photography, and the way both shape public perception.
Voice of Youth Advocates
Capstone's Captured History series of middle-grade picture books proceeds from the belief that a photograph can change the world. To that end, it has inaugurated its series with exquisite and insightful texts focused on the most iconic photographs in history. From Che Guavara's face to the Hindenburg in flames to death at Kent State and the iconic flag-raising at Ground Zero, each book succinctly takes a measured approach to understanding the visual imagery, historical context, and complex sociopolitical climate within which a photograph thrives. Even adults long-since familiar with the images will find much to learn and appreciate in this impressive collection.The quality of discussion of the photographs and their history varies somewhat. In an attempt to be dispassionate about controversial subjects, some topics hit all the right notes against the odds, while others may leave the reader with more questions. Burgan's discussion in Death at Kent State seems to defy the impossible by capturing an era in an economical text, while leaving some questions about the photograph unanswered. Smith-Llera's Che Guavara's Face brings new eyes to the photograph, while skirting more difficult questions about the era. Leaving young readers with unanswered questions is not necessarily a bad thing; these brief texts will ignite interest and perhaps prompt more research. As such, these books should be in every progressive middle school in the nation.Jim Nicosia.Compact Research: Teen Well-Being. Referencepoint, 2015. 96p. $28.95. Source Notes. Further Reading. Charts. Timeline. Index. Biblio.Wilcox, Christine. Teens, Nutrition, and Dieting. 978-1-60152-834-6.________. Teens and LGBT Issues. 978-1-60152-830-8.________. Teens and Body Image. 978-1-60152-828-5. 4Q 3P M J STeens, Nutrition, and Dieting is a well written, concise overview of the current issues concerning teens and food. Topics include teen athletes' needs, teen obesity, the food industry, and the dangers of dieting. Each topic is introduced with relevant quotes from leaders in the field. There are quotes from Michael Pollan, author of several leading books about food, and Mark Bittman, former food editor of The New York Times, a leading advocate of the vegan movement, and author of many cookbooks. Colorful charts explain the dangers of extreme weight loss, show sample eating plans, relate current obesity rates, and highlight different eating styles. Teens and LGBT Issues explains the differences between sexual orientation and gender identity in an unbiased, clear style. Issues covered include what issues LGBT teens face at school and in society; the benefits of coming out and what happens when coming out goes badly; the effects of homophobia; and finding a support system. The book offers practical advice to teens who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual or trans*, and will also be useful to friends and family members of a young adult who is a member of the LGBT community. Relevant quotes from Kelly Huegel and Neil Patrick Harris offer support and understanding. Teens and Body Image makes this serious topic relevant and understandable. The volume defines body image; explores how the media affects body image; discusses weight bias; and talks about therapy for developing self acceptance and improving self esteem for teens suffering with poor body image issues. Primary sources include quotes from the Academy of Nutrition and Dieting, individuals with bulimia and anorexia, and experts on health and public policy.The series is well written and concise, covering each topic in a clear, well-organized style. Regrettably, each volume has only one or two photographswhich are captivating and relevantbut more photos would enhance visual appeal for young adult readers. This series is for students looking for a quick overview of a topic, or for a young adult searching for advice on a specific issue.Ellen Frank.Digital Issues. Referencepoint, 2017. 80p. $29.95.áBiblio. Photos. Source Notes. Index.á