For Young Persons

The Animal's Lawsuit against Humanity Translated by Rabbis Anson Laytner and Dan Bridie
A thousand-year-old fable that has startling modern relevance ; a translation by two rabbis, illustrated by one Moslem and introduced by another; edited by a Christian; this book must surely be of avid interest in today's world.

The scenario can be briefly outlined. A meeting of animals of many different species, including birds and insects, decides to arraign human beings for exploiting and abusing them, The trial is to be held at the court of the King of the Spirits.

It is believed that the story originated in India but was first written down in Arabic about 1000 A,D. It was then translated into Hebrew, followed by Latin. Yiddish, German and Spanish. This English translation is an adaptation of the Hebrew version.

The book is divided into Gates instead of Chapters. Firstly, how we enslaved them and how they brought the case before the king. Then the king consults his wise men, After this, the animals and the humans each hold separate and secret meetings. The court then sits and hears the case of each side. Finally the king passes judgement.

Though couched in religious metaphor, it bore a social message. The birds had won but if the humans changed their ways and served the animals who, in turn, would serve them, they would be forgiven . But woe to the humans if they did not heed the king's warnings.

At a time of heightened awareness of the impact of human activity on our natural surroundings and the continuing conflict in Israel/Palestine, this book and its production team are of remarkable relevance.

The Gaia Atlas of First Peoples- Julian Berger

This book reflects clearly the fact that indigenous peoples are diverse in culture, religion, social and economic organisation and that they cherish their own distinct cultures. We have many lessons to learn from how indigenous people treat each other and the respect they show to the environments they live in. First Peoples describes the interconnectedness of peoples, nature and spirits through stories that serve to remind people of their place in the universe and their connection with the past.

First Peoples provides many fascinating insights into a variety of indigenous beliefs and understandings such as the meaning of aboriginal 'dreamtime', the creation of hills, rocks, hollows and rivers formed by powerful ancestral spirits of long ago. The rich symbolism of objects and their associations in the traditions of many indigenous cultures (such as the pipe, feather and rattle) are included and brought to life with over 100 full-colour photos and illustrations. The symbolism of colour is also explained excellently with 68 wonderful colour maps.

This inspiring book touches on many issues, such as Gaia hypothesis, conservation of natural resources, culture conflict, environmental policy, human ecology and social policy - a great read for all ages!