TEEN ACTIVISTS

Aiming at a better future for themselves and others, the teens profiled in this work strive to make a difference.

Examples of young people taking action and sharing their thoughts in their own words make this book vivid and inspiring. The author warns that activism is difficult work requiring a variety of skills as well as persistence, self-confidence, and determination. Organizing, marching, writing, and speaking are often added to days that are filled with other responsibilities. Activists have also been ignored, insulted, bullied, patronized, and threatened. They can’t let discouragement stop them and must accept not being like other teens. Some of the individuals highlighted here are well known, like Malala Yousafzai and Greta Thunberg, who views her autism as a strength. Others are less famous, like Alé Ortiz, a queer Latina gun control activist in Los Angeles. Sheen introduces young people in Canada, England, Pakistan, Uganda, and elsewhere. Their causes cover a variety of topics, and the book’s chapters each focus on one area: environmental issues, gun violence, racial justice, and children’s welfare. Sheen presents activism as an engaging challenge while not sugarcoating the sometimes-limited immediate results. This accessible overview with text boxes that introduce related subjects offers readers a peek into the motivations and strategies of teen changemakers who may inspire them to speak out.

A readable introduction to angry, distressed, impassioned, idealistic teens acting on their visions of positive change.