In 1925, Tennessee made the teaching of evolution illegal when they passed the Butler Act.  Anita Sanchez’s thoroughly researched book follows the events of what became a highly sensationalized, nationally polarizing, full-jury trial that challenged that law.  What should have been handled as a misdemeanor turned into a circus-like national event, exacerbated not only by newspaper coverage, but also by the onset of radio broadcasts.  Ultimately, John Scopes was found guilty and fined $100.00.  The appeals carried on for two years, finally ending in a quiet dismissal on a technical point.  The teaching of evolution was suppressed until Russia successfully orbited the Sputnik satellite in 1957 and the United States suddenly developed a renewed interest in science.  Even so, the Butler Act was not repealed until 1967.

Through the inclusion of black & white photographs, a glossary, a timeline, notes, resources, and an index, the author does an excellent job of documenting and explaining the high emotions involved in the controversies surrounding the teaching of evolution.  At the same time, as she states in her end note, she tries to “tell both sides as fairly and honestly as [she] could.”  Sanchez also does an admirable job of bringing the issue up-to-date, acknowledging the fact that “[t]hose passions continue today as the culture wars rage harder than ever.”

The book is intended for ages 8-12, but I found it an informative and surprising read as an adult.  So many of the arguments raised over a century ago are resurfacing as variants applied to other issues today.  This book is a worthy inclusion for any Middle School and older nonfiction collection.

Reviewed by Crystal Wilder, University of Southern Maine – Gorham Campus Library