Raintree Freestyle is a new, eye-catching range of colourful non-fiction books for the less able and reluctant reader, aged between 11 and 15 years. Designed for students with a reading age of 11 and 13 years old, these high interest books will enable readers to encounter curriculum-linked topics at an appropriate reading level. A Painful History of Crime takes a look at the world of the criminal, from ancient civilisations right up to modern times. The series includes stories about different crimes and different laws, and explains why some crimes and laws existed. It also looks at the different punishments that criminals have been given, and includes information about the people who have made and enforced laws through history. Real examples of crimes, criminals and punishments bring the facts to life! With strong social history links underlying the 'gory' facade, students learn history while reading for fun. This title uses eye-witness records, personal accounts, diary extracts, and reports to keep interest levels high. It also looks at the nature of crime and criminals, the reasons crimes are committed, and how views have changed across different ages and societies.