Lethal Weapons

by Geoffrey Harrison

"Informational text uses a historical framework to discuss issues surrounding gun rights and gun control. Sections include opinions from notable Americans on various sides of the issue followed by encouragement for readers to analyze each opinion"--Provided by publisher.

48 pages, Library Binding

First published July 15, 2013

Reviews

[Paula · Rating 2 out of 5]

This title is one of the “Great Debates” series. It provides readers an opportunity to learn about the many arguments associated with the hot-button topic of gun rights and gun control in the US. It begins with the history of the second amendment and then addresses the challenges it has faced over the years. Reasons for the many sides of the discussion are presented in brief chapters complete with facts, history, and opinions of influential individuals. Readers are bombarded with incisive questions, "Affirmative" and "Negative" boxes, and “Now consider this…” sidebars that cover the numerous facets of the debate: background checks, gun licensing, states’ rights, a violent society, to name but a few. This is a well written and researched book, but the many questions serve only to create more questions, which I suppose is the point in order to sharpen readers’ critical thinking skills. But readers will have to go elsewhere to find the information and statistics to really flesh out their research on gun rights and gun control. The demanding and unwieldy layout is distracting and visually unappealing. Back matter includes a glossary, bibliography, resources and index. This title is useful as a starting point for research or generating discussion, little more. Order if needed.