Guilty?: Crime, Punishment, and the Changing Face of Justice

Reviewed by: Sybil Shiland - RSU # 6 (retired), Standish, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: February 11, 2015

Review

Guilty? is a provocative introduction to the American criminal justice system for middle and upper grade readers. Teri Kanefield, J.D. begins by examining how we determine what it is that we call criminal behavior. The author then cites several very interesting cases that illustrate an action that may not seem morally wrong but legally is criminal behavior and vice versa. She then considers how we punish those who have committed crimes - and raises many questions about the purpose and effectiveness of imprisonment and the death penalty. The final section considers due process and the presumption of innocence .

This intriguing, very readable book will certainly raise more questions than it answers and will inspire young readers with an interest in the law to delve further. The author respects young people's ability to handle abstract ideas and never patronizes her readers. Difficult concepts are deftly explained and clearly illustrated with actual legal cases. One small quibble - some of the photos are ineffective - for example a rather blurry photo of the constitution.

Useful and complete back matter is appended and includes a glossary, a list of further reading, notes, a bibliography, and an index.

Overall Book Score: very good