School Library Journal

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.