Double trouble: When punishment becomes unfair

Is getting the same punishment always fair? When Alma and Tim are punished for climbing onto the garage roof, clearing the snow away seems like an easy task. But things quickly feel unfair. Why is the same task harder for one of them than the other? Later, at their uncle’s house, they hear the story of Annabelle, a woman in prison whose punishment turns out to be far more complicated than it first appears. Through snowball fights, family debates and a powerful story, Alma and Tim begin to explore the question of whether treating everyone the same is always the fairest way to punish someone.This story is part of the series ‘Alma and Tim Learn about the Law’, inspired by academic research about justice, criminal law, and human rights. It includes a legal glossary and questions to help young readers explore the social issues, legal principles, and big ideas behind the story.