Gangs: ISBN 978-1-60152-114-9 Genetic Testing: ISBN 978-1-60152-115-6 Online Social Networking: ISBN 978-1-60152-116-3

Booklist, April 1, 2011

Each title in the Compact Research: Current Issues series gives young researchers a good beginning point in examining controversial subjects, using a lively style and real-life stories to keep interest along the way. Each title begins with an “. . . at a Glance” look at its topic, within which it defines terms and outlines subtopics. The books then flesh out each subtopic, providing plenty of statistics presented visually along with pages filled with quotes. Opposing points of view are bracketed together for easy contrast. Gangs looks at the different types of gangs, such as street and military, why young people join them, and whether or not they can be stopped. Genetic Testing supplies information about the genetic diseases revealed by testing, the reasons for those tests, and how results might be used in both positive and negative ways. The statistics in Online Social Networking about sites like Facebook and LinkedIn will quickly become out of date in such a fast-moving field, but the background information on subjects like cyberbullying and sexting will probably stay pertinent for a while. Copious back matter in each volume includes lists of significant people, contact information for organizations, a well-rounded resource list, source notes, a time line, and an index. —Susan Dove Lempke

Immigration: ISBN 978-1-60152-095-1

Booklist, August 16, 2010

The Current Issues subset of the Compact Research series presents different points of view on topics students may be researching for papers or debates. Brightened with colorful graphics and charts as well as the occasional photo, each volume opens with a broad overview followed by four chapters and sections of related quotes and statistics. Immigration explores social and economic issues related to immigration policy in the U.S. Back matter in each book includes a chronology, annotated lists of "Related Organizations" and "Key People and Advocacy Groups," and bibliographies of books, periodicals, reports, films, and Internet sources. The books' "Primary Source Quotes" sections, which define the term primary source rather broadly, offer quotes out of context (and sometimes with ellipses or bracketed additions) and identify their sources. Each volume's cover uses the same design and photos. Although the books' reading level is higher than the colorful, accessible format suggests, students may find the books more usable than the densely packed essays in comparable series. —Carolyn Phelan

Drugs and Sports: ISBN 978-1-60152-105-7

Booklist, August 16, 2010

The Current Issues subset of the Compact Research series presents different points of view on topics students may be researching for papers or debates. Brightened with colorful graphics and charts as well as the occasional photo, each volume opens with a broad overview followed by four chapters and sections of related quotes and statistics. Drugs and Sports looks at performance-enhancing substances and testing policies for students and professional athletes. Back matter in each book includes a chronology, annotated lists of "Related Organizations" and "Key People and Advocacy Groups," and bibliographies of books, periodicals, reports, films, and Internet sources. The books' "Primary Source Quotes" sections, which define the term primary source rather broadly, offer quotes out of context (and sometimes with ellipses or bracketed additions) and identify their sources. Each volumeÕs cover uses the same design and photos. Although the books' reading level is higher than the colorful, accessible format suggests, students may find the books more usable than the densely packed essays in comparable series. —Carolyn Phelan

DNA Evidence and Investigation: ISBN 978-1-60152-102-6

Booklist, August 16, 2010

The Current Issues subset of the Compact Research series presents different points of view on topics students may be researching for papers or debates. Brightened with colorful graphics and charts as well as the occasional photo, each volume opens with a broad overview followed by four chapters and sections of related quotes and statistics. DNA Evidence and Investigation discusses the usefulness of such evidence as well as civil-liberties concerns raised by DNA databases. Back matter in each book includes a chronology, annotated lists of "Related Organizations" and "Key People and Advocacy Groups," and bibliographies of books, periodicals, reports, films, and Internet sources. The books' "Primary Source Quotes" sections, which define the term primary source rather broadly, offer quotes out of context (and sometimes with ellipses or bracketed additions) and identify their sources. Each volumeÕs cover uses the same design and photos. Although the books' reading level is higher than the colorful, accessible format suggests, students may find the books more usable than the densely packed essays in comparable series. —Carolyn Phelan

DNA Evidence and Investigation: ISBN 978-1-60152-102-6 Drugs and Sports: ISBN 978-1-60152-105-7

School Library Journal, June 2010

The first book discusses how conclusive the science is in solving crimes, whether DNA testing is effective for correcting justice-system errors, whether prisoners have a right to such testing, and whether databases of samples threaten civil liberties. The second examines whether drug abuse is a serious problem among athletes, how effective drug-testing policies are, whether more rigorous testing is needed for student athletes, and whether drug use should be legalized in competitive sports. Several pages of primary-source quotes, including excerpts from newspaper and magazine articles that interview law enforcement personnel, lawyers, families, and others, are included at the end of each chapter. In addition, the narratives include quotes from other relevant parties, all making the books helpful for reports, debate research, and general interest. Numerous brightly colored, easy-to-read graphs, charts, and maps enhance the coverage. Both books have solid end matter that includes listings of key people and advocacy groups, and related organizations. —Debbie S. Hoskins, Grand Rapids Public Library, MI

Teen Smoking: ISBN 978-1-60152-098-2 Immigration: ISBN 978-1-60152-095-1

School Library Journal, March 2010

This series has a tried-and-true format for providing reliable and up-to-date information for studentsÕ reports, debates, or other class projects. After an overview of the issue, chapters posed as questions ("How Can Teen Smoking Be Prevented?" or "How Should the United States Address the Issue of Illegal Immigration?") get thorough and balanced answers incorporating viewpoints from both ends of the pro/con spectrum. The "Primary Source Quotes" and "Facts and Illustrations" sections allow readers to zero in on information that would be particularly helpful in supporting arguments. The attention to citing sources properly also teaches how to research, while the inclusion of "Key People and Advocacy Groups" and "Chronology" sections will point students to sources of further learning. While photo illustrations are sparse, the straightforward presentation of serious subject matter, graphics, and easy access to facts make the books excellent choices for reports and debates.

Religious Fundamentalism: ISBN 978-1-60152-082-1

School Library Journal, December 2009

Marcovitz focuses this study of the social and political effects of fundamentalism on Christianity in America and Islam in other countries, although fundamentalist Hinduism, Judaism, and Buddhism also receive mention. The strength of this series is its statistics-heavy format: each chapter has a section on primary-source quotes and useful bar and pie graphs showing demographic information. Chapters in this title cover the extent of religious fundamentalism in different communities, its influence on individual rights, its impact on violence and terrorism, and the question of how governments ought to respond to it. End matter includes a spotty time line of the history of fundamentalism beginning with the birth of Islam through the attacks in Mumbai in 2008. —Rebecca Donnelly, Loma Colorado Public Library, Rio Rancho, NM

School Violence: ISBN 978-1-60152-057-9 Video Games: ISBN 978-1-60152-053-1

School Library Journal, January and February 2009

Gr 6-9 The introduction to School Violence looks at the prevalence of the problem; causes such as bullying and gangs; the influence of the media, including online sources, on behavior; and the roles of alcohol and drugs, etc. The "...at a glance" spread and "Overview" prepare readers for the more detailed information to come and provide facts about safety issues. Each of four chapters then addresses both sides of a question, followed by four pages of quotes and a section of colorful graphs, charts, and illustrations. The second book opens with descriptions of the growing popularity of video games and the regulation and legislation of content and sales; ratings; connections with violent crime; and health effects, including addiction. An overview provides further background and context to these issues, and as in School Violence, chapters follow addressing related questions and providing other related material. These chapters look more closely at the influence of the pastime on users' health and also cover the games'effects on perception of right and wrong, intelligence, development of analytical and social skills and negative stereotypes, etc. The accessible and objective presentations and lists of key people and advocacy groups make these useful resources for research. —Susan Shaver, Hemingford Public Schools, NE

Drunk Driving: ISBN 978-1-60152-072-2 Disaster Response: ISBN 978-1-60152-081-4

School Library Journal, November 2009, Series Made Simple Supplement

Gr 6 Up Each book provides a great array of facts, statistics, graphs, and primary-source quotes. The first title has an overview of the problem as well as topic-specific chapters such as “Who Drives Drunk?” and “How Should Drunk Drivers Be Punished?” It offers differing ideas on questions that have more than one answer. The colorful graphs and charts contain current information, sometimes through 2008. Robson covers disasters ranging from manmade to weather-related and bioterrorism. The author doesn’t just focus on the United States; how the world responds to disasters takes up a good part of the book. Hurricane Katrina is discussed in the overview and leads into chapters that question the ability of the United States to handle natural disasters and how it can be improved. Once again, colorful graphs and up-to-date statistics are included. Both titles would be great additions for students needing print materials to help with research projects, and for those who require some kind of first-person account included in their research. —Traci Glass, Eugene Public Library, OR

U.S. Border Control: ISBN 978-1-60152-052-4

School Library Journal, February 2009

Gr 6 Up An effective presentation of a multifaceted issue. McCage poses questions via the chapter headings ("Does increased border security protect the United States?"), then answers with succinct explanations composed of statistics and quotes from reliable sources. Also covered are impediments to border control, the Minuteman Project and its surrounding controversy, and future border control policies. Each section closes with "Primary Source Quotes" and "Facts and Illustrations"; the latter consists of material such as graphs, pie charts, and maps. While these sections make it easy for students to pinpoint the information they need, some graphics (such as the full-page pie charts that illustrate only one question each) seem superfluous. Though the text lacks photographs or personal accounts, the well-structured information provides a solid platform for all sides of the argument. —Joanna K. Fabicon, Los Angeles Public Library

Drug Legalization: ISBN 978-1-60152-012-8

School Library Journal, December 2009

Gr 9 Up Normally books on drugs, particularly those about marijuana, contain a section devoted to legalization. This book looks at marijuana, but also includes information regarding the legalization of a variety of other controlled substances. A beginning overview provides readers with relevant background and context. Chapters begin by posing questions such as, "Would legalizing drugs decrease crime?" or "Would legalizing drugs increase drug addiction?" The book provides different opinions, documented facts, and primary-source quotes to guide readers in forming and articulating their own responses. Color photos, charts, and graphs are interspersed. Lists of key people, advocacy groups, and related organizations complete the volume. Useful for persuasive writing and speaking assignments. —Patricia N. McClune, Conestoga Valley High School Library, Lancaster, PA

Cloning: ISBN 978-1-60152-081-4

School Library Journal, December 2008

Gr 9 Up Rather than a series of point/counterpoint articles, this book contains single chapters that each pose a question, e.g., "Is human cloning ethical?" and provide background and information in support of different responses to a specific controversy. Each chapter also includes a useful selection of related primary-source material. Throughout, Roleff gives necessary background in genetics to help students understand how cloning works. The technical language becomes a bit overwhelming in the chapter "Is Embryonic Stem Cell Re-search Ethical?" when the difference between pluripotent embryonic and multipotent adult stem cells is discussed. Those concepts are tackled and explained in as simple a way as possible, but the vocabulary and concepts are understandably daunting. Still, compared to titles such as John Woodward's The Ethics of Human Cloning (Gale, 2004), this is a more visually appealing and user-friendly title. It includes full-color graphs, charts, and photos, and the text is broken into manageable subsections. The book has information on key people and advocacy groups and a useful list of related organizations with print, phone, and Web contact information. —Patricia N. McClune, Conestoga Valley High School Library, Lancaster, PA

Illegal Immigration: ISBN 978-1-60152-009-8

Booklist, April 15, 2008

Given the overwhelming volume of information available on the Web, students will welcome this in-depth, clearly organized volume in the Compact Research: Current Issues series that does an excellent job of looking at the arguments about immigration from all sides. After the detailed overview, Miller discusses conflicting opinions on assimilation, effects on the economy, amnesty, border enforcement, guest worker programs, and more. The design is highly readable, including extensive primary-source quotes, as well as facts and color charts with each chapter; in fact, browsers may start with the visuals and then go on to the in-depth arguments. The debate is balanced; opposing sides have their say, whether the argument is about immigration policy reforms or about whether illegals threaten American society. Extensive source notes, a bibliography, chronology, and an annotated list of key people and advocacy groups will help those who want to find out more. —Hazel Rochman

World Energy Crisis: ISBN 978-1-60152-011-1 Gun Control: ISBN 978-1-60152-010-4

School Library Journal, May 2007

Gr 8 Up These books are intended to allow one-stop shopping for researchers by providing an overview, primary and secondary information, and charts and graphs on a contemporary topic. World Energy Crisis covers the diminishing quantity of available oil, nuclear power, and renewable energy sources. It discusses the current problems of energy use and supply without any mention of global warming or the green-house effect. In Gun Control, the discussion includes subjects such as youth violence, the Second Amendment, and bans on assault weapons. Both volumes include the names of key people and advocacy groups, a timetable showing the development of the issues, and additional re-sources. The colorful charts are sometimes difficult to understand and no explanatory text is provided. Although both sides of controversial issues are given, often the very short quotations provided as primary-source material are taken out of context and may not give readers enough information. The "Opposing Viewpoints" series (Gale) gives readers a fuller understanding of these topics, although Kallen's and Milite's books could be used to supplement more thorough explorations of the subject because of their additional statistical information. —Eva Elisabeth VonAncken, Trinity-Pawling School, Pawling, NY

The Death Penalty: ISBN 978-1-60152-008-1 Illegal Immigration: ISBN 978-1-60152-009-8 Biomedical Ethics: ISBN 978-1-60152-013-5

School Library Journal, May 2007

Gr 9 Up These books are deceptively thin as they are packed with well-organized, useful information. They include primary-source quotes, several types of graphs, lists of facts, and brief time lines of seminal events. The design is well thought out and the presentations are much more user-friendly for ELL learners and lower-ability researchers than the "Opposing Viewpoints" series (Gale). The authors touch on many of the areas that teens need when researching for reports or speeches, and each volume presents the most current information feasible in books on such ever-changing, timely topics. They also cater to different research styles with straight text, photos, lists, charts and graphs, and illustrations about each topic. Students will welcome these information-rich titles. —Lynn Evarts, Sauk Prairie High School, Prairie du Sac, WI

Global Warming and Climate Change: ISBN 978-1-60152-019-7 Nuclear Weapons and Security: ISBN 978-1-60152-021-0 Energy Alternatives: ISBN 978-1-60152-017-3 Obesity: ISBN 978-1-60152-040-7

School Library Journal, June 2008

Gr 9 Up Through primary-source quotes and many graphs and illustrations, this book gives quick bytes on the subject of obesity, including its causes, prevention, and treatment. The quotations, which are both focused in separate chapters and scattered around the text, add depth to the many charts, graphs, and other visuals. Both general readers and serious researchers will find something useful in this volume. It facilitates research for less-motivated students and supplies excellent information for better researchers. —Lynn Evarts, Sauk Prairie High School, Prairie du Sac, WI

Conflict in the Middle East: ISBN 978-1-60152-016-6

School Library Journal, June 2008

Gr 9 Up Naff has tackled a complex and broad topic in a concise and accurate manner, providing an easy-to-grasp and evenhanded re-source on the subject. Although his outlook is grim, it is realistic and objective. The author provides a brief look at each topic, including the history, the current situation, and potential resolutions. The book covers many conflicts in the Middle East, including the Palestinian-Israeli conflict as well as the Iraq War, and looks at America's involvement and the effects the fighting has and will continue to have on this country along with an overview of reactions from the global community. Each section includes several pages of direct quotes, statistics, and short summarizing statements. The layout is open, the illustrations (primarily graphs and maps) are colorful, and the back matter has plenty of suggestions for further research. —Sharon Senser McKellar, Oakland Public Library, CA

Animal Experimentation: ISBN 978-1-60152-037-1 Genetic Engineering: ISBN 978-1-60152-038-8

School Library Journal, July 2008

Gr 9 Up Each of these comprehensive guides contains a thorough explanation of the scientific field and dispassionately presents the arguments for and against its practices. The format is identical in each, and includes an overview, several long chapters examining sub-topics, and a chapter on key organizations. What makes the books different is that each discussion chapter ends with a collection of primary-source quotes as well as clear, colorful illustrations, including maps, charts, graphs, and photographs that provide excellent visual aids. Unlike the "Opposing Viewpoints" series, which contains longer essays, allowing each writer the chance to make a persuasive argument, these titles summarize the opinions from each side in individual entries such as "Are Animal Experiments Conducted Humanely?" and "What Policies Should Govern Genetic Engineering?" If a teacher's goal is for students to learn to research, these books will completely undermine that effort. If the goal is for students to take a controversial topic, learn about it, and write persuasive arguments of their own, these titles will be a goldmine. —Denise Schmidt, San Francisco Public Library, CA

Global Warming and Climate Change: ISBN 978-1-60152-019-7 Nuclear Weapons and Security: ISBN 978-1-60152-021-0 Energy Alternatives: ISBN 978-1-60152-017-3

School Library Journal, January 2008

Gr 8 Up Useful for reports, these volumes provide concise, concentrated information on contemporary topics. Each one gives an overview of the subject and presents pertinent questions with appropriate and well-documented quotations from a variety of viewpoints and basic facts and diagrams. Most pages also include a pull quote from the text. Key people and advisory groups are briefly discussed, and related contact information is provided. A thorough list of materials for further research includes books, periodicals, and Web sites. Charts and maps are in full color. Global Warming presents the dimensions of the crisis while giving voice to those who have different views. Friedman gives a short history of nuclear arms and describes the current proliferation of such weapons. A section on world survival after a nuclear war discusses the devastating consequences of such an event. Energy Alternatives provides a variety of possible alternatives to fossil fuels. Wind, solar, nuclear, hydro, ocean, and geothermal power are examined with the possible benefits and problems associated with each. These books will be helpful to students looking for a one-stop information source on current and controversial issues. —Eva Elisabeth VonAncken, Trinity-Pawling School, Pawling, NY

Terrorist Attacks: ISBN 978-1-60152-022-7 National Security: ISBN 978-1-60152-020-3

School Library Journal, February 2008

Gr 7 Up Students writing current-events papers on these two front-page issues will undoubtedly find these books vital to their research. The first book introduces theories as to why people carry out terrorist attacks, how they are executed, and how the attacks might be prevented. The second book includes information on the effect of security concerns on privacy, American foreign policy, and the Iraq War. Each volume includes people and groups associated with the issue, a chronology of events, related organizations, and suggestions for further research. Chapters open and end with an array of quotes that argue for or against a particular argument or aspect of the issue, complete with full citation. Pull quotes from the text and illustrated maps, graphs, and charts assist readers in understanding the main content. However, the pages are a bit dense and crammed full of many quotes, figures, and other information, which may make the volumes daunting for reluctant readers. Still, they are balanced looks at two controversial issues. —TJennifer Schultz, Fauquier County Public Library, Warrenton, VA

Religious Fundamentalism: ISBN 978-1-60152-082-1

Booklist, November 15, 2009

Part of the Compact Research: Current Issues series, this book on religious fundamentalism is timely and informative but has some organizational and definition problems that may limit its use. For instance, fundamentalism initially is defined in terms of a belief in scripture, ignoring practices and actions. Each religion has its own fundamentalists (which the text rightly points out in numerous spots), but throughout, the book jumps from one group to another so that readers move rather too rapidly from Hasidic Jews to Sikhs to the “New Atheists.” Moreover, the chapters of primary source quotes are offered without much context. Despite these problems, students who have only a vague idea of the term fundamentalism will get up to speed as Marcovitz explores such topics as how governments should respond to religious fundamentalism and whether it fuels violence and terror. The book mentions some positive aspects of fundamentalism and has some pro-religion quotes. Illustrated primarily with charts and graphs. —Ilene Cooper

Anxiety Disorders: ISBN 978-1-60152-137-8 Brain Tumors: ISBN 978-1-60152-138-5 Personality Disorders: ISBN 978-1-60152-139-2 Schizophrenia: ISBN 978-1-60152-140-8

Booklist, OCtober 15, 2011

Gr 7–12 Fortified with contemporary individual case studies of both teens and adults, each title in the Compact Research: Diseases and Disorders series discusses variations of each disease, as well as the prevalence, symptoms, causes, effects, diagnoses, and treatment, drawing upon media interviews and commentary as well as clinical reports and research studies. Anxiety Disorders will have wide YA readership, especially because it is the most common form of mental illness in the U. S. —from post-traumatic stress disorder and panic attacks to claustrophobia. The discussion is jargon free, honest about trauma's agonizing toll, and includes info on therapy and medications. Up to date, accurate, and clearly written, Brain Tumors focuses on the pathology of how tumors form, as well as the symptoms and treatment. Very clear about how little is known about causes, this title raises an important teen issue: can heavy cell-phone use increase brain tumors? Personality Disorders is not as accessible, with some heavy jargon, but it is up to date enough to include information on dialectic behavior therapy. Schizophrenia does an excellent job of demystifying the disorder, including the multiple-personality diagnosis, and discusses whether particular treatments can help. The clear design includes recent graphs and tables, color photos and diagrams, and lots of carefully documented primary-source quotes from patients, researchers, and scientists.

Personality Disorders : ISBN 978-1-60152-139-2 Anxiety Disorders : ISBN 978-1-60152-137-8

School Library Journal, May 2011

Gr 6-10 These titles provide a systematic and focused look at their respective subjects. Each title begins with an overview and then provides an explanation of the disorder. Personality Disorders covers 10 types, including paranoid and schizoid disorders. Subsequent chapters explore causes and the ways these conditions impact patients' lives and ultimately address whether sufferers can overcome them. Short sections containing primary-source quotes and bulleted facts and charts that highlight important information are appended to each chapter. Anxiety Disorders covers six main types, including panic and obsessive-compulsive disorder. It strikes an off-note with the inclusion of a graph showing that women who have had abortions have an increased likelihood of developing an anxiety disorder. Since this is the only study cited that links a particular action with an increased rate of anxiety, it adds an unfortunate and unnecessary political agenda to the topic. With the exception of the aforementioned problem, these titles are useful for reports as well as general interest; the inclusion of information on key people and advocacy groups as well as a chronology of events that highlights the historical background and important milestones adds value. —Ragan O’Malley, Saint Ann’s School, Brooklyn, NY

Bipolar Disorders: ISBN 978-1-60152-066-1 ADHD: ISBN 978-1-60152-062-3 Alzheimer’s Disease: ISBN 978-1-60152-061-6

School Library Journal, June 2009

Gr 6-10 These serviceable volumes offer orderly looks at their topics. The authors describe the disorders, causes (if known), symptoms, treatments, and the effects on an individual, a family, and society at large. Detailed back matter includes source notes, key people and advocacy groups, and related organizations. The texts are factual without being dry, easy to read, and colorful. One drawback is that the illustrations, although aesthetically pleasing, tend to be a little simplistic. Also, readers will need to read the fine print at the bottom of the sections labeled “Primary Source Quotes” to understand the series’ usage of the term. The quotations are really just a gathering of sound bites and text blurbs gleaned from doctors treating these illnesses and the patients and/or families of the afflicted. Still, these titles are solid entries for libraries needing to update their collections in these areas. —Robin Henry, Wakeland High School, Frisco, TX

Down Syndrome: ISBN 978-1-60152-065-4 HPV: ISBN 978-1-60152-070-8

School Library Journal, June 2009

Gr 7 Up This up-to-date, excellent overview of Down syndrome addresses controversies and ethical issues associated with this genetic disorder. Parks also reports on current and potential scientific advances that may prevent it in the future and offer a better quality of life and opportunities for those born with it. HPV examines prevention techniques and treatments, explains scientific advances that might prevent HPV, and presents information about vaccines and controversies surrounding them. Important features in both volumes include primary-source quotations with citations, illustrations, facts, tables, and colorful informational sidebars. Useful for reports and for general information. —Caroline Geck, Newark Public Schools, NJ

Sexually Transmitted Diseases: ISBN 978-1-60152-045-6 Hepatitis: ISBN 978-1-60152-039-5 Meningitis: ISBN 978-1-60152-043-2 Phobias: ISBN 978-1-60152-044-9 Anorexia: ISBN 978-1-60152-042-5 Autism: ISBN 978-1-60152-058-6

School Library Journal, November 2008

Gr 9 Up Each of these books contains the same foreword, stating that part of the series goal is to present "information on a current topic in a user-friendly style that invites, intrigues, and fosters understanding." Mission accomplished. The organized, uniform structure includes an opening overview of the disease or disorder, with subsequent chapters divided into three parts: text, quotations from primary sources, and "Facts and Illustrations," which includes bulleted snippets of information and color photographs and drawings. While the illustrations are helpful access points, their separation from the text can be inconvenient. The firsthand or expert accounts that open chapters and are sprinkled throughout are astutely selected and seamlessly woven into the presentation. These quality sources could be used in a variety of different ways-straight reporting for speech or debate ideas (Anorexia's discussion of "pro-Ana" Web sites could be used in debates on free speech, for example), or as a springboard for further research.

Diabetes: ISBN 978-1-60152-076-0 Learning Disabilities: ISBN 978-160152-077-7 Sleep Disorders: ISBN 978-160152-071-5

Booklist, November 2009

With many color photos, famous profiles, and dramatic opinion-based quotes from experts with differing viewpoints, the browsable design will draw readers to these titles in the Compact Research: Diseases and Disorders series, including teens who suffer from the conditions or know someone who does. Far from saccharine, both professionals in the field and individual young people never deny the hardship, and they are realistic about the ongoing daily struggle and the hope of overcoming disability. Diabetes is especially grim at times, with scary terms such as "deadly" and quotes about kidney disease, nerve damage, and blindness, but the essential information includes details of the diabetes food pyramid, the facts about pancreatic cancer and kidney transplants, and especially the call for increased government spending on prevention. In Learning Disabilities, the famous profiles—from the mayor of San Francisco, who struggles with dyslexia, to Helen Keller—show that even if the disability cannot be cured, with the right treatment and attitude, people can achieve success. Everyone will recognize the causes and effects of insomnia discussed in Sleep Disorders; much scarier are the potentially fatal disorders of sleep apnea and narcolepsy. Each title includes extensive, spacious back matter, with bibliographies of books, periodicals, and Internet sites; detailed source notes; and key people and advocacy groups. —Hazel Rochman

Sleep Disorders: ISBN 978-1-60152-071-5 Learning Disabilities: ISBN 978-1-60152-077-7 Diabetes: ISBN 978-1-60152-076-0

School Library Journal, November 2009, Series Made Simple Supplement

Gr 6 Up Marcovitz’s coverage ranges from insomnia to potential medical conditions that can lead to death, such as sleep apnea and narcolepsy. This book is a comprehensive overview of an often misunderstood subject. Parks explains what learning disabilities are and discusses the causes and overcoming them. The book’s strength is that it explains how learning disabilities differ from other types of disorders. Yuwiler discusses type 1 diabetes and its management, type 2 diabetes and its prevention, metabolic syndrome, and medical advances. In all three books, subtopics are delineated by brightly colored burgundy headings; blocks of orange-colored sidebars with bright-red print and relevant color photos and illustrations appear throughout. Each chapter ends with several pages of primary-source quotes and facts and illustrations that offer greater clarity to the text. Teens will find the overall organization of these succinct and easy-to-read books useful and attractive. —Caroline Geck, Newark Public Schools, NJ

Club Drugs: ISBN 978-1-60152-005-0 Inhalants: ISBN 978-1-60152-015-9 Cocaine and Crack: ISBN 978-1-60152-001-2

School Library Journal, February 2008

Gr 9 Up Club Drugs and Inhalants pose questions about these substances-how they are harmful, how they affect society, and how they can be controlled or their use prevented. Cocaine speaks not only to addiction but also includes sections on punishments, treatment, and the war on the substance. Each title has an overview, primary-source quotes that clearly express varied opinions, glitzy statistical charts, and illustrations. Concepts covered include common street names, how the drugs affect the brain, and how they are ingested. Each volume ends with a list of key people and advocacy groups, a chronology of important trends and legislation related to a particular drug, and a list of related organizations. The purpose of the series is to cull information and organize it into a "compact, relevant, intelligent" format. While that goal is met, at times the books can be too simplified and repetitive and tend to spoon-feed readers. —Joanne K. Cecere, Monroe-Woodbury High School, Central Valley, NY

Methamphetamine: ISBN 978-1-60152-004-3 Heroin: ISBN 978-1-60152-002-9 Marijuana: ISBN 978-1-60152-000-5

School Library Journal, May 2007

Gr 8-10 These conveniently organized, user-friendly volumes cater to reluctant readers and feature objective overviews; large-type primary-source quotes; and a number of brightly colored maps, charts, and graphs. Berne explores whether methamphetamine usage in the U.S. has reached epidemic proportions, its dangers, the link between addiction and crime, and abuse prevention. Egendorf cites the dangers of heroin and addresses abuse prevention, the effectiveness of treatments, and whether its use should be decriminalized or legalized. Nakaya covers marijuana-related health issues, the drug's effect on society, and legalization issues including medicinal usage. End matter is above average with source notes, related organizations, a chronology, and an annotated listing of key people and advocacy groups. Since many series titles cover similar information in a similar format on all three drugs, purchase to update or fill holes in collections. —Debbie Stewart Hoskins, Grand Rapids Public Library, MI

Methamphetamine: ISBN 978-1-60152-043

Booklist, April 15, 2008

Is methamphetamine use an epidemic? This title from the Compact Research: Drugs series considers that question along with the dangers of the drug, links between meth addiction and crime, and addiction prevention. Each chapter is followed by a “Facts and Illustrations” section that includes a page of bullet-point statements and several pages of information clearly presented on colorful, clearly labeled charts, graphs, and maps. “Primary Source Quotes” offers a series of quotes, from statements by doctors, journalists, and government officials to those of former addicts, with writers identified and the source references given below the quotes. Some students may find these sections useful as a way to identify places to look for “primary source” quotes for their papers, but the use of the statements out of context, frequently with words left out or inserted, takes these quotes a step or two away from what most teachers would consider primary sources. Back matter includes a chronology; source notes; lists of books, periodicals, and Internet sources; and annotated lists of key people and organizations. —Carolyn Phelan

Hydropower: ISBN 978-1-60152-122-4 Oil Spills and Offshore Drilling : ISBN 978-1-60152-141-5

School Library Journal, May 2011

Gr 5 Up–These timely volumes have up-to-date information with frequent references to the Three Gorges Dam in China (Hydropower) and the Deepwater Horizon disaster in the Gulf of Mexico (Oil Spills). The strong points of the books are their organization and their usability. Each volume begins with a two-page introduction to the topic, followed by an overview of approximately 10 pages and then 4 chapters, each organized around a question. Hydropower poses questions concerning the possibility of reducing dependency on fossil fuels, the impact of hydropower on the environment, how developing countries can benefit from its use, and if the oceans represent the future of hydropower. Oil Spills asks if the U.S. needs to drill offshore, if it's an environmental risk, if regulations are adequate, and discusses the future of offshore drilling. In both books, each chapter is followed by a section of primary-source quotes espousing pro and con views. Each title concludes with a "Key People and Advocacy Groups" section. These volumes are first-rate ready-reference books and excellent to use in teaching research with primary documents.

Toxic Waste: ISBN 978-1-60152-124-8 Coal Power: ISBN 978-1-60152-107-1

School Library Journal, November 2010

The first book discusses the seriousness of toxic and electronic waste, the effectiveness of cleanup efforts, and future challenges. The second title examines the global demand for coal power, environmental impacts of burning and mining it, and the future of the industry. In a concise, objective manner, the books investigate historical, economic, political, and environmental issues. Primary-source quotations; short narrative texts, followed by relevant quotations; a section with a bulleted list of one-sentence facts; pertinent illustrations; and annotated lists of key people, organizations, and advocacy groups are included. Opposing quotes are paired off in brackets. These books are well researched and carefully organized, and the discussion and quality content make them useful for research.

Hydrogen Power: ISBN 978-1-60152-073-9

Booklist, February 15, 2010

Part of the Compact Research: Energy and the Environment series, this volume provides teen researchers a one-stop resource for a credible and citable narrative, facts, figures, illustrations, and primary-source quotes on this timely topic. Four main sections explain the dependence on fossil fuels, the viability of hydrogen as an alternative, its impact on global warming, and what the future might hold. This resource offers information that could be used on both sides of an issue; yet rather than presenting the information in a point/counterpoint format, it is presented in a more concise manner. There are text boxes on many pages, but the format of the book remains uncluttered. Wide margins and extra spaces between lines of text allow for easier reading. Subheadings break the text into manageable blocks. Quotes, facts, and full-color figures are presented at the end of each chapter rather than interspersed in the body of the text. The book includes a chronology; related organizations; a list of books, periodicals, and Internet sources; chapter source notes; and a detailed index. —J. B. Petty

Deforestation: ISBN 978-1-60152-075-3 Biofuels: ISBN 978-1-60152-078-4 Fossil Fuels: ISBN 978-1-60152-079-1 Hydrogen Power: ISBN 978-1-60152-073-91 Solar Power: ISBN 978-1-60152-074-6 Wind Power: ISBN 978-1-60152-080-7

School Library Journal, November 2009, Series Made Simple Supplement

Gr 9 Up These titles pack a ton of useful research information into small packages. The organization will appeal to researchers with limited prior knowledge, as the books begin with “At a Glance” summaries and then expand to chapter-length discussions. Chapters pose questions (“How Do Biofuels Affect the Environment?”), explore the issues in a clear narrative, and conclude with sections of primary-source quotes, compact facts, and informative illustrations. Deforestation feels like the odd man out, but it clearly explains the problems with the use of wood as a fuel, and describes efforts to change that trend.

Are Extraterrestrials a Threat to Humankind?: ISBN 978-1-60152-170-5 The Search for Extraterrestrial Life: ISBN 978-1-60152-171-2 Aliens in Pop Culture: ISBN 978-1-60152-1540-5 UFOs: ISBN 978-1-60152-172-9

School Library Journal, November 2011

Gr 7 Up Students will find plenty of material in this thorough and interesting series. Speculative in nature, each book poses common questions about aliens and attempts to provide answers by drawing information from the fields of entertainment, science, and philosophy. Some dry chapters are loaded with statistics and scientific facts, and others, like those focusing on alien encounters, are downright creepy. These books are text heavy, with only occasional glossy images, and sidebars provide fun facts or insight into specific events or organizations. Extensive back matter makes these books great for report writers and those truly interested in the possibility of alien life.

Are Extraterrestrials a Threat to Humankind?: ISBN 978-1-60152-170-5

Booklist, October, 1, 2011

It's hard to make life on other planets seem boring, and this title in the Extraterrestrial Life series certainly captures the subject's inherent allure, while maintaining a serious, rather than a sensationalistic, tone. Kids expecting hair-raising stories about green men from Mars will instead learn about the compounds necessary for life and their availability on other planets, the microbial threat of extraterrestrial life, and communication with other life forms. The solid text also includes theories about what (and who) might be out there, from writers such as Carl Sagan and Issac Asimov, along with details about SETI, the program that tries to communicate with extraterrestrial life. Interesting sidebars are a great addition (an excerpt from an article asks if SETI communications should be more pithy, like Twitter messages), and the book's computer-generated illustrations do take advantage of its subject with a couple of images of scary ETs. The title's focus on whether aliens are a threat will draw kids in. This well-sourced volume closes with a glossary and list of websites and suggested books.

How Serious a Threat Is Climate Change? ISBN 978-1-60152-142-2 Is Offshore Drilling Worth the Risks? ISBN 978-1-60152-143-9 Should the Drinking Age Be Lowered? ISBN 978-1-60152-144-6

School Library Journal, May 2011

The In Controversy series presents varied points of view on well-defined, timely topics. Typically, the introduction of each book personalizes the dilemma, the opening chapter looks at the origins and history of the controversy, and the remainder of the book explores the questions raised within the topic. In Climate Change, Marcovitz considers the reliability of scientific research on the subject, the potential economic and environmental impacts of global warming, and the responses of world governments. Offshore Oil Drilling discusses America’s dependence on offshore oil for energy security, environmental damage (looking particularly at the 2010 Deepwater Horizon spill), economic benefits, and how drilling might be made safer. Drinking Age looks at whether teens are mature enough to drink responsibly, whether changing the drinking age affects binge drinking, and whether European cultures offer useful models for responsible teen drinking. Clearly written and presenting plenty of relevant information, the books offer opposing points of view in a fairly evenhanded way. Clean page design makes the text look more accessible through wide margins as well as the use of color in design elements and photos. Each volume concludes with an annotated list of relevant organizations, a bibliography, and source notes for the quotes in each chapter. Good resources for research projects.

Should Marijuana Be Legalized? ISBN 978-1-60152-106-4 Can Renewable Energy Replace Fossil Fuels? ISBN 978-1-60152-113-2

School Library Journal, November 2010

In these overviews, each of five chapters is presented in the form of a question. In the introduction to Marijuana, Barbour covers the divided opinions and conflicting values pertaining to the debate. Chapters include "How Should Marijuana Laws Be Reformed?" "How Would Legalization Affect the Economy," and "Does Medical Need Justify Legalization?" In Renewable Energy, headings focus on "What Are the Origins of the Controversy Over Fossil Fuels?" "How Affordable Is Renewable Energy?" and "What Policies Should Guide Renewable Energy's Future?" The content in both titles is presented in a readable format and the layout of the texts is inviting, featuring a lot of white space and annotated, color photographs on most spreads. Boxed areas highlight subjects. In addition, images of pushpin notes appear on many of the pages, featuring an applicable quote that is cited. These titles would be useful in helping students to learn about and evaluate complex issues

How Dangerous are Performance-Enhancing Drugs? ISBN 978-1-60152-126-2

Booklist, October 15, 2010

The In Controversy series presents divisive topics in a manner accessible to older students. Each volume offers an overview of the subject as well as personal anecdotes that represent varied ideas and experiences. The first chapter traces the history of the issue, while the remaining chapters explore questions surrounding it and how they might be addressed by people with different viewpoints. How Dangerous Are Performance-Enhancing Drugs? considers the effects of drug use on the integrity of sports as well as on athletesÕ achievements and health. Page designs are attractive, with colorful elements such as headings, photos, sidebars, and diagrams breaking up the blocks of text, but the reading level, particularly in the volumes on energy, pandemics, and marijuana, will be challenging for many high-school students. Each book concludes with a bibliography, source notes, and annotated lists of related organizations. —Carolyn Phelan

Is the World Prepared for a Deadly Influenza Pandemic? ISBN 978-1-60152-127-9

Booklist, October 15, 2010

The In Controversy series presents divisive topics in a manner accessible to older students. Each volume offers an overview of the subject as well as personal anecdotes that represent varied ideas and experiences. The first chapter traces the history of the issue, while the remaining chapters explore questions surrounding it and how they might be addressed by people with different viewpoints. In Is the World Prepared for a Deadly Influenza Pandemic? the lessons of past pandemics are brought to bear on current realities, from lapses in international cooperation to differing views on mandatory vaccination. Page designs are attractive, with colorful elements such as headings, photos, sidebars, and diagrams breaking up the blocks of text, but the reading level, particularly in the volumes on energy, pandemics, and marijuana, will be challenging for many high-school students. Each book concludes with a bibliography, source notes, and annotated lists of related organizations. —Carolyn Phelan

Should Marijuana Be Legalized? ISBN 978-1-60152-106-4

Booklist, October 15, 2010

The In Controversy series presents divisive topics in a manner accessible to older students. Each volume offers an overview of the subject as well as personal anecdotes that represent varied ideas and experiences. The first chapter traces the history of the issue, while the remaining chapters explore questions surrounding it and how they might be addressed by people with different viewpoints. Should Marijuana Be Legalized? discusses medical, judicial, economic, and social concerns that come to light in the debate over legalizing marijuana. Page designs are attractive, with colorful elements such as headings, photos, sidebars, and diagrams breaking up the blocks of text, but the reading level, particularly in the volumes on energy, pandemics, and marijuana, will be challenging for many high-school students. Each book concludes with a bibliography, source notes, and annotated lists of related organizations. —Carolyn Phelan

Does Illegal Immigration Harm Society?: ISBN 978-1-60152-085-2 Is Stem Cell Research Necessary?: ISBN 978-1-60152-088-3 Childhood Obesity: ISBN 978-1-60152-083-8 How Should the World Respond to Global Warming? ISBN 978-1-60152-086-9 Does the Death Penalty Deter Crime?: ISBN 978-1-60152-084-5

School Library Journal, November 2009, Series Made Simple Supplement

Gr 9 Up An excellent series, providing unbiased information on a range of controversial topics. Each volume provides a rigorous investigation of its topic, with chapter titles structured as questions to encourage students to think about the issues. For example, chapters in Illegal Immigration include “Does Illegal Immigration Harm the American Economy?” and “Does Illegal Immigration Lead to Increased Crime and Terrorism?” Each volume is attractively designed, allowing plenty of white space to contrast with the color photos, reproductions, charts and graphs, maps, and sidebars. Quotes are well-cited, and the writing is consistently high. For in-depth research into a topic, these are first-rate resources.

Does Illegal Immigration Harm Society: ISBN 978-160152-085-2

Booklist, October 1, 2009

Gr 7 Up This title in the In Controversy series examines the vexing issue of illegal immigration. Barbour starts with context—an overview of nineteenth and early-twentieth-century legislative attempts at regulating immigration—and then examines a clutch of contentious issues surrounding the current impact of illegal immigration upon America’s economy, culture, crime, and national security. His strategy is to offer the sometimes inflated, sometimes reasonable views of advocates from both sides of the issue(s). The result is generally balanced, though his coverage of crime and terrorism does seem skewed in the conservative direction (could it be the quote Barbour includes from the magazine New American without informing readers it’s published by The John Birch Society?). One also wonders why, of the five Web sites listed in the appended “For Further Research” section, three are conservative and two libertarian. To be fair, the unbiased Pew Hispanic Center is often cited and readers are also referred to such immigration-friendly sources as La Raza and the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund. Yes, a controversial issue—and perhaps a controversial book? —Michael Cart

Biotech Research: ISBN 978-1-60152-176-7

Booklist, December 1, 2010

With a wide scope and dense detail, this title in the Inside Science series is an excellent choice for classroom discussion about controversial issues. Can science resolve the global hunger crisis by using biotechnology to produce more food while preserving the earth's natural resources? Genetic engineering of corn can increase the nutritional value and reduce the need for pesticides, but is there a risk? Should an embryo that shows a genetic predisposition to defects be terminated? And what about research into future technology, such as fuel to replace gasoline and lower greenhouse gases? Not everyone will agree with the statements, of course, but the disagreements will fuel classroom exploration of ongoing debates, from nature versus nurture to genetic manipulation.

Vaccine Research: ISBN 978-1-60152-131-6 Climate Change Research: ISBN 978-1-60152-128-6 Renewable Energy Research: ISBN 978-1-60152-129-3 Gene Therapy Research: ISBN 978-1-60152-108-8 Stem Cell Research: ISBN 978-1-60152-130-9 Space Research: ISBN 978-1-60152-111-8

School Library Journal, Series Made Simple Supplement, November, 2010

This series offers the necessary information for stellar reports. Politics, debates, and ethical concerns are briefly and fairly mentioned, but the books concentrate on consistent, documented, and well-balanced scientific coverage. The human stories sprinkled throughout will help kids identify with both scientists and patients. Renewable Energy Research includes the story of a British student who invented solar-powered refrigerators, which will drive home to readers the point that the future is in their hands.

Gene Therapy Research: ISBN 978-1-60152-108-8

Booklist, October 1, 2010

Opening with an account of successful gene therapy for a rare eye disease, this introduction to the research goes on to speculate about future applications for other inherited diseases. Beginning with basic definitions of such terms as gene, human genome, and DNA, the well-organized narrative explains the impact of viruses, drugs, cloning, and stem cells on gene therapy and describes recent research, including failures as well as successes. The well-balanced coverage is heavy on text (though the typeface is quite easy to read) and includes concerns, fears, and ethical issues related to cloning, stem cell, and embryonic research. The photographs and diagrams, though a bit sparse, are well captioned. A time line and excellent back matter, including targeted facts and plenty of Web sites, make this Inside Science entry a good choice for school assignments. —Linda Perkins

Space Research: ISBN 978-1-60152-111-8

Booklist, December 1, 2010

With titles like Stem Cell Research and Climate Change Research (both 2010), the Inside Science series actively courts controversial subjects. As the books' introduction states, the series "provides students with a sense of the painstaking work that goes into scientific research," thereby giving nascent naysayers pause. And it's a goal well accomplished: Parks piles on the research, digging deep into interstellar study, programs that reach into space, and what it all means to the common person, never shying away from detail and onerous proper nouns (see: "Lyman-Alpha space blobs"). A time line of important events kicks it all off, followed by modern-leaning chapters on research (space weather, asteroids), probes (from the Mars Rover to the comet-puncturing Deep Impact), the collaborative efforts of space stations, telescopes, and future directions in the field. As is always the case with the publisher, the color layout features plenty of photos, boxes, and charts, while Parks delivers a surprisingly spry text. Slim but packed, this is ideal for middle or high school reports. —Daniel Kraus

Online Predators: ISBN 978-1-60152-193-4

School Library Journal, November, 2011

Packed with frightening cases of online attacks by sexual predators, financial predators, and bullies, this detailed, up-to-date, highly readable guide is a warning to young people-and adults-about Internet based crime and identity theft. The first section discusses the rising trend of "sexting," with predators using chat rooms and social-network sites to browse personal profiles,identify potential victims, and trick them into reaching out. The financial chapter warns against including bank accounts and credit-card numbers online, as the Internet opens new doors for theft and predators who target consumers. A section on cyberbullying details this growing form of social cruelty that spreads virally, and it asks crucial questions: should cyberbullying be made a criminal offense? An important final section confronts the debate between free speech and safety controls. Computer-savvy teens will especially welcome the coverage of emerging careers in cybersecurity and forensics, with examples of how detectives go online to pose as teens and entrap predators. A clean design with color photos and extensive back matter with detailed source notes and a bibliography further add to this title's appeal.

Ghost Hunters: ISBN 978-160152-091-3

Booklist, October 1, 2009

Gr 9 Up Books about troublesome spirits have long been a mainstay in middle-grade collections. This entry in the Library of Ghosts and Hauntings series takes a decidedly modern tack by focusing on ghost busters. Although much page space is given to Jason Hawes and Grant Wilson, founder of TAPS (The Atlantic Paranormal Society) and stars of the TV show Ghost Hunters, Lace doesn’t skimp on history. The origins of tracking, recording, and photographing ghosts are traced back to the spiritualism movement of the 1800s; the first bona fide ghost hunter, Harry Price; all the way up to the current high-tech gadgets that assist modern-day investigators. There are plenty of shots of creepy locations (though most of them are unrelated to the text) and hunters in action, though it would’ve been nice to see at least a few of the purported images of ghosts. But Lace’s technique of ending each section with a teaser of what’s to come is effective. This is a rare topic that will enthrall horror hounds and gearheads alike.

Communication with the Dead: ISBN ISBN 978-1-60152-089-0 Ghost Hunters: ISBN 978-160152-091-3 Ghosts: ISBN 978-1-60152-090-6 Hauntings: ISBN 978-1-60152-092-0 Poltergeists: ISBN 978-1-60152-093-7

School Library Journal, November 2009, Series Made Simple Supplement

Gr 7 Up This set presents numerous stories of ghosts and hauntings taken from books, Web sites, and other publications. The easy-to-read books contain a good deal of text and are suitable for those who want substantial information. The quality and tone of the writing varies, with some of the titles contradicting each other. Ghosts, the strongest title in the series, does an excellent job of balancing ghost stories with a discussion of the lack of scientific evidence for them. The other books are a little more sensational and at times imply that the encounters occurred. Color images and sidebars will help to hold readers’ attention and make the books appealing to reluctant readers. While the authors rely heavily on Web sites for information, each book contains suggestions for further reading and detailed source notes.

Demons: ISBN 978-1-60152-147-7

Booklist, August 1, 2011

This entry in the Monsters and Mythical Creatures series certainly makes demons seem real. Beginning with an introduction that explains the origins of the devilish creatures, the book discusses demon-like entities throughout cultures and religions. Satan, the most important biblical evil entity, gets a full description. The book also provides information about demons’ abilities, such as shape-shifting, manipulating time, and, of course, human possession, and exorcism is given several pages. With devils such a prevalent part of so many cultures, there are plenty of images to choose from, and the book’s visuals, which include contemporary photos of ceremonies and artists’ renderings of demons, can be quite startling. Excellent sidebars, some only a sentence or two, cover topics such as the number of exorcists in the Catholic Church. Source notes and a bibliography complete this frightening, informative package.

Zombies: ISBN 978-1-60152-150-7

Booklist, April 1, 2011

It's easy to view zombies as a relatively recent pop phenomenon. But in this volume from the Monsters and Mythical Creatures series, Woog makes a strong case that the pervasiveness of this macabre concept stretches way back—all the way to The Epic of Gilgamesh. In a first section that is as fascinating and haunting as it is weakly sourced (all too often the source is an unnamed "researcher"), Woog takes us through what might be evidence of zombies in ancient Egypt and Rome and inserts the shambling flesheaters into every historical mystery under the sun—the vanishing of the Mayans, the disappearance at Roanoke, etc. Later chapters delve into the drug-induced zombies of Haiti (where there are 1,000 new reports of zombification a year), lingering over important writers who have covered that culture, like Zora Neale Hurston and Wade Davis. Woog finishes with a survey of cinema, literature, video games, and more. "Did You Know?" boxes are even more problematic in their mix of fact and fiction, but at least abundant horror-film stills keep the layout nice and ghoulish.

Goblins: ISBN 978-1-60152-149-1 Demons: ISBN 978-1-60152-147-7 Aliens: ISBN 978-1-60152-145-3 Dragons: ISBN 978-1-60152-148-4 Cyclops: ISBN 978-1-60152-146-0 Water Monsters : ISBN 978-1-60152-1136-1 Zombies: ISBN 978-1-60152-150-7

School Library Journal, April 2011

Gr 8 Up–Well written and well researched, each title describes the characteristics of a monster: its origins in literature or lore, its physical appearance, instances in which people believe they interacted with it, and hoaxes. Occasional "Did You Know?" sidebars offer compelling factoids such as, "The ancient Chinese traded a substance said to be dragon saliva to use in making perfume" (Dragons). The authors consistently use the words "myth," "literature," and "folklore" to drive home the idea that the creatures in question are not real. As in the "Unexplained Phenomena" series, the title on demons is a poor fit for a series aimed at young readers, even teens, since few people actually believe in the existence of aliens, dragons, and the like, but some religions teach that demons are real. Also, while the other volumes describe a goblin’s appearance in J.R.R. Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings" trilogy and how Greeks imagined a Cyclops looked, Demons deals with possessions, exorcisms (one of which resulted in a 2005 crucifixion), Ouija boards, and spirit communications in the modern-day world. A few series are standouts. Bellwether Media's "The Unexplained" showcases informative yet accessible writing and attractive layout designed to appeal to struggling readers. QEB's "QEB Unexplained" offers potential curriculum tie-ins. ReferencePoint's "Monsters and Mythical Creatures" is well written and its research is documented. Because that series is the only one that cites its sources, the others reviewed here will have limited use for reports and research. Still, monsters, aliens, and the like are of perennial interest to many young readers, so it behooves librarians to consider some of the titles for recreational reading, except the ones about demons, as mentioned above.

Ancient Egypt: ISBN 978-1-60152-152-1

Booklist, October 1, 2011

This title from the Understanding World History series thoroughly examines the conditions that led to the rise of ancient Egypt and its pharaohs, as well as their legacy. Complemented by numerous maps and photographs (including several of mummies), the straightforward text explains how geography and religion influenced the culture. The most fascinating chapter highlights the building of the pyramids, their remarkable features (e.g., ball-and-socket construction that allows the structures to expand and contract with heat and cold), and the mysteries that still surround their near perfection in a time without modern technology. Other chapters look at the rise of arts and literature and the shift from a polytheistic to a monotheistic society. Sidebars on such topics as peasants' diets and the development of papyrus paper add further interest. Other features include a time line, source notes, and lists of books, websites, and "Important People." For more information on art and mythology, pair with Joann Fletcher's Exploring the Life, Myth, and Art of Ancient Egypt (2009).

Vampires in Literature: ISBN 978-1-60152-134-7 Vampire History and Lore: ISBN 978-1-60152-132-3 Encounters with Vampires: ISBN 978-1-60152-133-0 Vampires: Do They Exist?: ISBN 978-1-60152-110-1 Vampires in the Movies: ISBN 978-1-60152-135-4

Booklist, March 31, 2011

Energetic and surprisingly educational, this lively five-book series seizes upon a zeitgeist topic and takes it as far as possible, delving into fact, folklore, cinema, and literature with equal aplomb.

Vampires in Literature: ISBN 978-1-60152-134-7 Vampire History and Lore: ISBN 978-1-60152-132-3 Encounters with Vampires: ISBN 978-1-60152-133-0 Vampires: Do They Exist?: ISBN 978-1-60152-110-1 Vampires in the Movies: ISBN 978-1-60152-135-4

School Library Journal, Series Made Simple Supplement, November, 2010

The entertaining Literature, History and Lore, and Movies describe the metamorphosis the vampire persona has undergone since its early role as a truly feared monster in Babylonia and its appearance in popular 19th-century tabloid stories, to its cinema debut in a 1916 German movie and beyond. With little overlapping material, the titles describe how the characteristics of a vampire have changed as people's understanding of the world around them has developed. "Strange as It Sounds..." sidebars house oddball facts such as "The first script of the Twilight film was very different from the book. Bella was a track star, and FBI agents used Jet Skis to chase evil vampires" (Literature). The thoroughness with which the subjects are treated and the connections made to literature and cinema make these books excellent choices. Encounters and Do They Exist? describe in more detail how, in the past, people's ignorance about illness and death, and truly brutal historical figures (Countess Bathory and Vlad Dracula are two) led to a belief in vampires. Both titles go on to describe modern-day instances of vampirism. These volumes are darker than the other three, as the details are explicit: Encounters, for example, describes how a student stabbed his elderly neighbor 22 times, then removed her heart and drank her blood, "in an apparent attempt to turn himself into a vampire." Of additional concern with these two titles is the vagueness of some of the source notes, especially where interviews are concerned.

Encounters with Vampires: ISBN 978-1-60152-133-0

Booklist, October 1, 2010

Stephenie Meyer's novels and the HBO hit series True Blood may be more fact than fiction according to this entry in the Vampire Library series. Robson writes with energetic flair as he lays out both folklore and real-world reports of bloodsucking beings. Expanding beyond familiar Transylvanian tales and stories of vampires in strictly human form, the author's survey is global, from the Malaysian langsuyar, believed to be responsible for many newborn deaths, to the red-eyed, monstrous Latin American chupacabra, notorious for preying on livestock (its name combines the Spanish words for "suck" and "goat"). Pages washed with red stains and graphic artwork and photos underscore the subject's inherent gore, which Robson frankly discusses throughout, including in the frequent sidebars, such as a vampire hunters' detection guide, which outlines what to notice "at the graveyard" and "inside the coffin." Young vampirefiction fans will find much to ponder here, while the accounts of contemporary murders with purported vampire links may emerge as the most chilling and grisly. Source notes and suggested reading bolster the title's curricular use. —Gillian Engberg