Trial

More about the book

Reading this account of a trial feels like watching a court case unfold while hearing the inner thoughts of those involved. With over a third of high school students lacking basic civics knowledge, this narrative offers an engaging way to teach them about America’s justice system. The author, Susan Kuklin, provides an insider's perspective on a contemporary court case involving a kidnapping ring in New York's Chinatown, drawing from exclusive interviews with the prosecution, defense, judge, and jury. The prosecution reveals a plot where ruthless criminals exploit vulnerable immigrants, while the defense uncovers the shadowy deals made in jail that can lead to betrayals. Through intimate interviews, Kuklin explores the motivations of both the tough Korean-immigrant prosecutor and the liberal defense attorney, using courtroom exchanges to clarify legal concepts like hearsay evidence, presumption of innocence, and admissibility of evidence. As the judge makes rulings, readers will be captivated, eager to see the outcome while becoming informed about legal processes. This compelling narrative serves as an interactive way for young readers to learn about the law, making it ideal for those who participate in mock trials or follow legal dramas on television.