In this kids' biography, discover the inspiring life story of Mohandas Gandhi, whose teachings of compassion and non-violence helped to win his country's freedom.
Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was born at a time when his home country was choked under the oppression of British rule. Many thought that violence was the only way to fight back, but Gandhi disagreed. Instead, he successfully used his teachings of non-violence and civil disobedience to win his country's freedom, and to promote his philosophy of peace and equality. In this biography for kids ages 8-12, see how Gandhi--called Mahatma, or "great soul," by his many followers--changed the world through his words and deeds, which still resonate worldwide today.
DK Life Stories go beyond the basic facts to tell the true life stories of history's most interesting people. Full-color photographs and hand-drawn illustrations complement thoughtfully written, age-appropriate text to create an engaging book children will enjoy reading. Definition boxes, information sidebars, fun facts, maps, inspiring quotes, and other nonfiction text features add depth, and a handy reference section at the back makes this series perfect for school reports and projects. Each book also includes an author's introduction letter, a glossary, and an index.
As an adult, I prefer non-fiction books from the juvenile section of the library. Gandhi by Diane Bailey (DK Life Stories) was a great biography that introduced Gandhi, his life story, and his principles. I knew some about Gandhi, but I learned a lot more through reading this biography. It had wonderful illustrations and a writing style that both children and adults would enjoy.
The book of Gandhi by Diane Bailey talks about the life of Mohandas Gandhi. It covers the challenges and oppression along his path to achieving independence. It also talks about his other obstacles in childhood and adulthood.
This book, overall, is good at summarizing information and gives interesting facts to help people learn more about Mohandas Gandhi and who he was. This is shown when it says, "Gandhi faced a troubling situation in South Africa"(Bailey 24). This shows how the book is good at summarizing information right to the point for readers. The story also gives facts, as shown on page 33 which states, "Days on the ashram began early in the morning with reading and prayers. People ate plain meals of porridge"(Bailey 33). These facts helped to show what Gandhi did to support the rise of independence.
Gandhi's biography also tells why independence was needed, and how issues rose between Hindus and Muslims. In the story, it states, "Hindus did not eat beef, and were offended when Muslims did. Muslims did not like when loud music from Hindu ceremonies would play when they were trying to pray."(Bailey 43). This fact explains how Muslims and Hindus were getting bitter with one another, due to their differences. Prices of items were increasing in India, due to British rule. This is shown as explained, "The British had put a high tax on salt..."(Bailey 63).
In brief, Gandhi by Diane Bailey is a perfect book to learn about and get information about Gandhi. It also gave information on why independence was necessary, and the issues of Hindus and Muslims that had risen due to independence and past conflicts. This is why I gave this book a 5-star rating.
I just loved this book, in fact, I am now reading a much more in-depth book on Gandhi and this helped to give me the big picture and timeline of his life to better understand this next book. This is a great book for students 3-12 grade, a classroom, or a must for a library. The 123 page book is organized into 12 chapters arranged from his early childhood, time in London, his work in South Africa, his return to India, his marches, time spent in jail from civil disobedience, hunger strikes, and his assignation. It has a great Glossary of terms, illustrations, timeline, section of Who’s Who, and even a ‘quiz. Highly recommend.
I liked Gandhi even more now. One new thing I learned about him is that he can write with one hands. When his right hand got tired, he would switch to writing with his left hand. He took a vow not to talk on Mondays.