Justice for kids : keeping kids out of the juvenile justice system /

Dowd's edited book is an important book at an important time. Disenfranchised youth, including those who are of color, disabled, poor, or queer, are disproportionately involved in a broken juvenile justice system. Dowd's work offers a sound rationale and clear blueprint for transforming juvenile justice, with the aim of keeping kids out of the system. Each chapter is marked by a strong theoretical foundation informed by leading researchers from various disciplines. Most importantly, it offers practical wisdom from expert practitioners leading efforts for change in related fields. Shay Bilchik's opening chapter creates an expansive reimaging of systems using an ecological model based on a risk and protective factor approach. Subsequent chapters provides critical analysis and sound advice for remaking institutions that serve youth, including schools, foster care, special education, and juvenile justice into systems based on prevention and diversion with a strong prevention focus. The final section frames chapters highlighting model programs, including restorative practices in Denver's schools, comprehensive prevention programs in Harlem, and transformative school practices inside juvenile justice facilities. Here the reader finds hope inside a system much in need of repair. Summing Up: Recommended. Lower-division undergraduates and above. P. S. Kelly Truman State University