School Library Journal Review

Gr 5-9ÄStandard series titles that present their subjects with some historical data and then explore issues pertaining to teens. The sentences are short and easy to read. Average-to-poor quality black-and-white and color photos have little relation to the texts, showing teens engaged in various activities, medical vehicles, and drug bottles. Each book lists appropriate organizations with phone numbers, e-mail addresses, and Web sites. Ecstasy discusses how the drug MDMA affects the mind and body, clearly outlining the dangers. Despite the single topic focus, it doesn't provide much more information than Paul Robbins's chapter on Ecstasy in Designer Drugs (Enslow, 1995). Drugs and the Legalization Debate presents the pros and cons calmly and fairly. It also discusses drug abuse and penalties, with a brief look at how other countries deal with the issue. Herbal Stimulants discusses "natural" substances teens might be tempted to try to get high, lose weight, get stronger, have more energy, or relieve medical problems. The author cautions against the perception that substances are safe because they are "natural." With their large print and full-color pictures, these titles look more user friendly than those in the "Drug Library" series (Enslow) and are serviceable additions.ÄMartha Gordon, formerly at South Salem Library, NY (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.