First, there was shock. The next emotion felt around the world on Sept. 11 was anger at what had cost so many lives.

        Then, suddenly, Americans began personal justice, attacking citizens in their neighborhoods who resembled those believed responsible for the attacks in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania.

        As incidents of hate crimes were reported after the tragedy, among the witnesses were America's children.

        In helping youngsters understand the events and cope with the emotions connected with it, parents and educators need help initiating a dialogue with children on how to combat prejudice.

        Bookseller Barnes & Noble and the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) have teamed to present the free booklet, “Close the Book on Hate: 101 Ways to Combat Prejudice.”

        “The most important idea is to teach our children to accept and respect people for who they are,” says Leonard Riggio, chairman and CEO for Barnes & Noble. “We must begin that dialogue and discussion immediately in order to finally close the book on hate.”

        The booklet kicks off a campaign, running through Nov. 15, to educate adults on methods to reduce or prevent the development of prejudiced attitudes in young children. It will include a series of free educational events for children, teens, educators and community leaders. A full schedule of events is available at Barnes & Noble stores or at www.barnesandnobleinc.com and www.adl.org.

        “As primary influences in children's lives, parents, teachers and caregivers have a unique opportunity to teach young children acceptance and understanding of individuals who may be different,” says ADL national director Abraham Foxman.

        The booklet, “Close the Book,” contains a recommended list of books that deal with prejudice and understanding other cultures. Among the books listed is the ADL's Hate Hurts: How Children Learn and Unlearn Prejudice by Caryl Stern-LaRosa and Ellen Hofheimer Bettmann (Scholastic Trade; $9.95). The book explores how to answer difficult questions young people will ask and offers assistance to those working with perpetrators of intolerance.

        “Hate is learned and there is no doubt it can be unlearned,” says Ms. Stern-LaRosa. “The process of countering negative attitudes with respect, understanding and acceptance must begin at an early age and continue through adolescence.”

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