Peacemakers

Paths to Peace: People Who Changed the World
by Jane Breskin Zalben


Sixteen individuals who have worked to improve the lives of others are profiled in this attractive-looking book. They include writers, philosophers, Civil Rights advocates, and politicians, many of whom were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. One-page summaries of each person's accomplishments are prefaced by a full-page illustration and inspiring quote, surrounded by beautiful borders made from fabric, etchings, watercolor, and found objects. Zalben's endnotes explain the various symbols and materials expressed in her pictures and how she hoped to interpret each person's character and his/her approach to life. Thus a delicate pond symbolizes Ralph Waldo Emerson's influence on Thoreau, a desert rose depicts the blooming passions of Eleanor Roosevelt, and textiles from Southeast Asia decorate the pages for Aung San Suu Kyi.

A bibliography, further readings and a list of resources encourage more research; the only things missing are actual photographs of the peacemakers themselves.