Real Guns confronts the topical issues of gun control and the effects of war-past and present-on returning soldiers and their families. Jon, like many young boys, is fascinated by guns. He finds a loaded pistol hidden under his parents' bed, with nearly tragic consequences. The close call prompts his father to explain to Jon why he needs to keep the gun, forging a much closer bond between father and son, and emphasising the need for parents to talk to their children about issues affecting their safety. Patrick Murphy's stunning illustrations are a perfect complement to Reiter's timeless story, allowing younger readers to better understand why guns are at once a necessary part of contemporary life but also a danger when they get into the wrong hands. The book has been Highly Recommended by Education Queensland for its relevance to school curricula dealing with social and family issues.