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Laidlaw, S. J.
5 Reviews
(4)
YA
Inspired by the author's social welfare work in Mumbai's red-light district, this novel focuses on fourteen-year-old Noor, who excels academically but sees no alternative to following her mother into sex work. The novel offers a vivid, unsettling depiction of Mumbai's poverty and its sex trade. Alternating chapters about a privileged, wealthy teen can seem extraneous, but Noor's story is intense and thought-provoking.
Reviewer: Norah Piehl
(3)
YA
Seventeen-year-old Luke has been told that his older sister Pat, a rock for him, drowned while conducting whale shark research on a tiny island near Honduras. But troubled Luke still hears Pat's guiding voice and is convinced she's still alive. Luke is a complex character, and his interactions with the equally well-drawn secondary characters enrich the unique mystery.
Reviewer: Norah Piehl
(3)
YA
After sixteen-year-old Emma's diplomat father takes off, her mom moves her and her siblings from Manila to Islamabad. There Emma gradually absorbs the beauty and culture of the place--and gains friends and a complicated love interest--but not before undergoing some truly harrowing experiences. The novel offers a well-balanced portrait of a complex country. A glossary of Urdu words and phrases is appended.
Reviewer: Norah Piehl
(3)
4-6
Animal rights advocate Laidlaw exposes backstage conditions of animals in entertainment, from live animal shows to circus acts and movies. The admittedly agenda-driven text's examples of neglect and abuse combine with photographs and sidebars to underscore the message that animal lovers have an obligation--and the ability--to create change; suggestions for action, FAQs, and an "Organizations to Contact" list provide tools. Glos., ind.
Reviewer: Tamara DePasquale
(3)
4-6
Accessible text and often heartbreaking photographs of elephants, great apes, and other animals juxtapose their behavior and lifestyle in the wild and in captivity. Laidlaw's own feelings are clear, and his approach offers readers empowerment: what to look for in zoo animal quality of life and ten ways to help (e.g., contact animal protection agencies to report poor conditions). Websites. Glos., ind.
Reviewer: Bridget McCaffrey
5 reviews
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