Horn Book (The Horn Book Guide, Fall 2002)
This book detailing how three major faiths born in Asia have fared in this country emphasizes the common foes each religious group has faced--prejudice, assimilation, and generational antagonisms--rather than describing their tenets and practices. Black-and-white photos and reproductions of documents--some clear, others faded--complement the informative, accurate text. Bib., ind. (Religion in American Life series). Category: Nonfiction-Religion. 2002, Oxford, 160pp, $24.00. Ages 14 to 18. Rating: 3: Recommended, satisfactory in style, content, and/or illustration.

Libby Bergstrom (VOYA, April 2002 (Vol. 25, No. 1))
Religion is considered a topic to avoid in social conversations, yet religious belief is central to the lives of many. In fact, religion plays a major role in American history and continues as a crucial part of the nation's culture. The seventeen-volume Religion in American Life series, three volumes of which are reviewed here, aims to "explore the evolution, character, and dynamics of religion in American life from 1500 to the end of the [twentieth] century." With the exception of Native American religions, religious beliefs in America were imported. In Immigration and American Religion, Joselit provides a historical overview of the Protestant, Catholic, and Jewish experiences and briefly touches on other religions. In Religion in Twentieth Century America, Balmer traces America's religious experience through the twentieth century, a period that saw a growing diversity of beliefs. Both volumes cover so much information that the presentation seems encyclopedic without providing much depth. In contrast, Buddhists, Hindus, and Sikhs in America has the space to take more leisurely looks at these faiths. In addition to recounting events related to the history of these religions in the United States, specific beliefs are explained with descriptions of how adherents practice their faiths within the context of American culture. All three books present their information clearly and objectively in workmanlike fashion. Because they read like expanded encyclopedia articles, they would not be the first choices for young people trying to define their personal beliefs. Their objective yet sympathetic portrayals of people of faith, however, are recommended highly for those doing research. Index. Photos. Further Reading. Chronology. VOYA CODES: 3Q 3P J S (Readable without serious defects; Will appeal with pushing; Junior High, defined as grades 7 to 9; Senior High, defined as grades 10 to 12). 2001, Oxford University Press, 160p. PLB, $24. Ages 12 to 18.