Why Do We Fight?: Conflict, War, and Peace

Gr 5–9—Walker does an excellent job of breaking down the basics of conflict. The book is clearly organized, with easily identifiable sections and chapters defining conflict and explaining it around ethnic, religious, and resource lines. Maps in black and yellow highlight areas under discussion. Graphic organizers fit nicely with Common Core State Standards organizational structures. While using age-appropriate vocabulary and concrete examples, Walker never talks down to her audience. Instead, she simplifies conflict so that students can understand the basics, like the time line of events in Afghanistan and the concept of genocide, and leaves room for a development of knowledge as students mature. The examples of conflicts in the Middle East are timely. Why Do We Fight?? has a longer shelf life than other informational texts as it won't go out of date quickly. Teachers could build seminars and lessons around each chapter, and interested students will find much to think about.—Sarah Knutson, American Canyon Middle School, CA