A former juvenile court judge offers a compelling behind the bench look at juvenile crime and justice. In each of the 21 real-life cases of teen crime, Jacobs describes the background of the offender and the circumstances of the offense. He then presents several sentencing options, leaving it up to the reader to decide what punishment is appropriate by offering a series of questions to consider before imposing a sentence. Jacobs also includes the judge's decision in each case, and he asks readers to compare and contrast their decision to the judge's. Through the encouraged role-playing, students will gain a better understanding of the intricacies of the system. An excellent introduction to how juvenile justice works, this will be a great resource for classroom and group discussions.

Gr 7 Up-Written by a juvenile court judge, this book details 21 cases ranging from truancy to auto theft. Following a description of events leading up to and including the crime itself, readers are given background about the individual, sentencing options, and questions to consider before sentencing, and then asked to make a decision about the case. Jacobs then explains his decision, asks for responses to it, and tells what later happened to the individual. Each case also includes a letter written by the teenager to Judge Jacobs. With the proliferation of courtroom shows on television, this book gives young people a more realistic look at the legal system designed for them. The author's compassion for those who appeared before him will also be eye-opening for many young people. "There may be an occasional detour, but more often than not, they get back on track. It's inspiring to see." That, above all, will teach young people an important lesson. An unusual and thought-provoking treatment. Lynn Evarts, Sauk Prairie High School, Prairie du Sac, WI