What I Believe - Hardcover

Writing a survey of world religions is very difficult, especially when it's meant for a middle-grade age group. The variations and intricacies of each faith make generalities inevitable. Yet, despite all the obstacles, Brown and Langley offer a knowledgeable, friendly effort that will give kids an overview of eight world religions: Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Shintoism, and Sikhism. The hook here is that the information is being offered by boys and girls who represent the various religions. Each child explains the religion to the others, and, of course, to the reader, covering history, beliefs and practices, places of worship, holy days, and celebrations. Much of the discussion is based in orthodoxy--for instance, the Jewish narrator discusses what it means to keep kosher--but some variations are also noted, for example, the fact that in some branches of Judaism, women can be rabbis. The art is cartoon style, but in the best sense of the word, well executed and bright. Drawings are mixed and matched with color photos. A few other faiths, such as Jainism, are mentioned in a final two-page spread, and a glossary completes the package. Ilene Cooper

Grade 3-5-A brief, colorful introduction to religions of the world. Ten pages each are devoted to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism each receive four pages of discussion, and Shinto, Taoism, and "Some Other Faiths" are discussed on double-page spreads. Sections cover information of interest to children: beliefs and practice; holidays; and customs such as christening, circumcision, naming ceremonies, bar and bat mitzvahs, marriage, and funerals. Color photos, reproductions, and drawings on every page add interest.
Linda Beck, Indian Valley Public Library, Telford, PA
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