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Brooks tackles the history of violence in schools, analyzing direct and indirect aspects contributing to this increasingly common trend. While not a new phenomenon, Brooks provides a unique perspective and approach to this hot button issue, arguing and counter-arguing the how and why of this notable crisis. Examining the whole of school communities, he covers significant topics ranging from bullying and cyberbullying, suicide, sexual harassment and drug use to workplace safety, teacher burnout, architectural design of schools, and the long held traditions of academics and athletics.
Perhaps his most controversial argument is the responsibility, or lack thereof, of school staff and officials who do not do enough to prevent the violence. He even expands on the CDC's definition of bullying to include adults and not just youth, writing that, "All people regardless of age can perpetuate this hate-filled act." While Brooks scrutinizes the particular problems we may overlook with addressing school violence, he does offer guidance and solutions, asserting that conflict resolution is a "realistic remedy" and that it is "easy to obtain, read and apply if one chooses to do so."
A former public school educator turned advocate for conflict resolution in schools, Books brings to light compelling evidence for how we may try to shape and improve the future of schools and surrounding communities. Written with a clear and authoritarian voice, he presents complex ideas and subject matters in an accessible way. As an added bonus, Brooks summarizes main points at the end of each chapter for reference and quick understanding of his detailed explanations. Researched and culled from expert sources in conjunction with adult and youth witnesses who face the threat of violence every day, it is a book that demands our attention and asks us to embrace new methods toward protecting our children.