Borders (Understanding the Lines that Unite and Separate Us)

This accessible illustrated nonfiction guide for children ages eight to twelve details the who, why, and how of borders, including how geographical boundary lines can both unite and separate us. 

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection

Borders map out cities, countries, territories. They are established across land and sea and sky. Some are flexible, and some seem impenetrable, but all borders are more than just geography. When were today’s boundaries created? Who created them and why? And how do these lines affect the culture, economy, politics, and environment around them? 

Nature has created many logical borders. Humans have established some that seem to make no sense. And though they are often invisible, borders can have serious consequences when crossed. What groups are working to bridge these divides and support our shared humanity? 

In this easily digestible illustrated nonfiction guide, children learn that there is more to consider than just the outline on a map and that throughout history, boundary lines have had the power to bring us together or keep us apart. 

The easy-to-follow segments help children understand complex topics like: