Grade 9 Up—This book discusses relationships at home, among friends, at school, in communities, and, finally, between nations. Chapter one focuses on the different forms of conflict and ways to manage it. Using examples as disparate as the Cuban Missile Crisis and neighbors who play loud music, the text demonstrates that good communication skills (which are listed in a sidebar) and peer-mediation skills serve one well in any situation in which resolution abilities are needed. Bullying and appropriate responses to it are discussed. Vignettes of how individuals can make a difference are also included. The concluding chapters, "Checks and Balances in the United States" and "Managing Conflicts Around the World," detract from the more immediate valuable message the book offers.
