(4) 4-6 How the US Government Works series. This series provides a broad overview of the historical development and current operations of various entities of the U.S. government. Although there is some overlap, each independent volume presents an account of the function and performance of its particular branch or agency. Lackluster texts are enhanced with photographs, sidebars, and instructional aids. "Stop and think" questions are appended. Reading list, timeline. Glos., ind. Review covers the following How the US Government Works titles: How the US Security Agencies Work, How Political Campaigns and Elections Work, How Political Parties Work, How the Executive Branch Works, How the Judicial Branch Works, and How the Legislative Branch Works.

Reviewer: Luther B. Clegg

(4) YA Essential Chemistry series. These textbooklike volumes cover advanced physical, organic, and geochemistry topics. Concepts range from standard molecular chemistry to applied chemistry, including such subtopics as the carbon cycle, global warming, rock formation, and industrial products. Numerous charts, photographs, diagrams, and sidebars (including real-world applications) help break up the dense texts. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers these Essential Chemistry titles: Earth Chemistry, Acids and Bases, Chemical Bonds, and Carbon Chemistry.

Reviewer: Danielle J. Ford

(3) YA Junior Drug Awareness series. These volumes add useful information to the series. Each provides facts about not only the drugs themselves but also about the concepts of addiction and recovery. Pills discusses body image issues; Heroin includes a historical look at the drug's use and people (including celebrities) who have succumbed or gotten clean. Occasional stock photographs illustrate the texts. Reading list, timeline, websites. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers these Junior Drug Awareness titles: Diet Pills and Heroin.

Reviewer: Cyrisse Jaffee

(3) YA Focus on Science and Society series. This book presents a balanced examination of the potential benefits and dangers of scientifically engineered food. The types of modified food are carefully defined; their possible effects on the environment are discussed as well as their impact on consumers in different countries. Each chapter is illustrated with color photos. A list of relevant organizations is included. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Jim St. Claire