Gangs

Gr 6–9—These titles bring difficult topics to light by providing background information and advice. Following five or six brief chapters discussing the topic at hand, a closing chapter lists suggested actions for readers currently experiencing these tough situations. A "Hot Topics Q & A" spread speaks to more specific questions readers might have, while "Other Resources" lists appropriate websites and hotlines. Resources for both Canada and the U.S. are included, however, it is not always clear which resources are intended for which country. Stock photographs do little to enhance the texts, and although sources are included with boxes of additional information, no year is cited to determine the currency of the provided statistics. Glossary entries are misleading as terms are defined in the wrong context or omitted despite being highlighted in the text. A choppy, repetitive format makes the books difficult to read from cover to cover, and the information is too superficial to help anyone facing these situations. Serviceable overviews, but far better books on these topics are available. —Meaghan Darling, Plainsboro Public Library, NJ