Why War Is Never A Good Idea    by Alice Walker & Stefano Vitale Order:  USA  Can HarperCollins, 2007 (2007) Hardcover Read an Excerpt     Reviewed by Hilary Daninhirsch Pulitzer-prize winning author/poet Alice Walker, probably best known for The Color Purple, has dramatized the devastating effects of war in this moving picture book aimed at children. In poetic form, Walker personifies War: 'Though War speaks Every language It never knows What to say To frogs. Picture frogs Beside a pond Holding their annual Pre-rainy-season Convention. They do not see War Huge tires Of a Camouflaged Vehicle About to Squash Them flat.' And ... 'War has bad manners War eats everything In its path & what It doesn't Eat It Dribbles On:' The book's inside cover says that it is intended for all ages, though many will disagree. Younger children will likely not fully grasp the subject matter, but more mature children will, though parents should be prepared for a discussion about war. No doubt this book will spark controversy, but it is hard to argue that Alice Walker is a gifted writer. The illustrations are gorgeous and vibrant, an ironically stark contrast to the book's powerful message, but filled with hope for a future without war. There are some disturbing visual images in the book, such as a picture of missiles destroying a village. Both the book's pictures and words leave the reader to imagine what will occur next, which could open up grounds for meaningful dialogue on this serious subject. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Kids books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews