In Controversy Reviews

Should Marijuana Be Legalized? ISBN 978-1-60152-106-4 eBook: 978-1-60152-200-9
Can Renewable Energy Replace Fossil Fuels? ISBN 978-1-60152-113-2 eBook: 978-1-60152-197-2
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.