World Peas and Other Ways to Make a Difference

Sheila Martindale is poetry editor of Canadian Author and Bookman and
the author of No Greater Love.

The cover of this book of program ideas shows an open pod with six peas,
one of them being in the form of a globe representing Earth. The
book’s purpose is to help leaders of children stimulate discussion and
action on issues of peace and social justice, racism, fairness,
equality, the distribution of wealth, world hunger, and more. It is
designed to highlight the theme of Jubilee, of which the United Church
is a part. Sunday school teachers, summer camp counselors, Boy Scout and
Girl Guide leaders, indeed, anyone involved with young people will find
this a very valuable resource.

Each segment—clearly marked with its purpose, the materials required,
and an outline for the session—offers stories to tell, prayers to
share, music and video suggestions, and loads of great activities.
Permission is given to photocopy many of the pages as handouts or
activity sheets. There are things for very young children to do, and
some thought-provoking items for teens. Most of the units could be
adapted for any age group. Reference is made to the United Nations
Convention on the Rights of the Child, which is dovetailed with some of
Jesus’ sayings. The topics range from personal safety to global
issues. The writers recognize that children are sensitive to world
problems and would like to find ways to solve them. The section about
children and poverty, with some first-hand accounts, is particularly
moving and is certain to motivate youngsters and their leaders to find
ways of helping. This book is a great educational tool.