(4) 4-6 Inspiring Collective Biographies series. These revised editions of books originally published as part of the Collective Biographies series provide surveys of pioneers in various fields (computers, the arts, exploration, etc.). Each volume contains ten biographical profiles, illustrated with black-and-white photographs. The writing can be flat, but the profiles will serve as adequate starting points for those doing basic research. Reading list, websites. Ind. Review covers these Inspiring Collective Biographies titles: Harlem Renaissance Artists and Writers, Amazing American Inventors of the 20th Century, Fighting U.S. Generals of World War II, Innovators of American Jazz, Pioneering American Computer Geniuses, and Daredevil American Heroes of Exploration and Flight.

Reviewer: Elissa Gershowitz

(4) YA Authors of Banned Books series. Beckman presents an overview of book banning, then provides a somewhat mechanical analysis of The Chocolate War, I Am the Cheese, and After the First Death. Discussion of the many challenges Cormier's books have faced is interwoven with testaments to his Catholic convictions and generous spirit. Many stock photos and a few that are actually applicable to Cormier's work illustrate the pages. Reading list, timeline, websites. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Megan Lynn Isaac

(4) YA Issues in Focus Today series. Short informative chapters accompanied by color photographs explore teenage relationships, communication, popularity and body image, gender identity and orientation, and sexual intercourse. Although the text tries to be inclusive and cutting-edge, its design looks more like a health-class assignment than something a teen would pick up. Chapter notes are appended. Directory, reading list, websites. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Cindy Lombardo

(4) YA Issues in Focus series. National Parks are seen as both natural and cultural resources, and striking a balance to preserve both for future generations becomes the focus of debate in this well-written and researched discussion. While unexceptional black-and-white photos fall short, the unbiased presentation successfully educates and engages the reader. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Tamara DePasquale

(4) YA Collective Biographies series. Each volume in this series profiles ten notable figures, some famous (Langston Hughes, Clara Barton) and some less well-known; both Harlem Renaissance and Composers profile Duke Ellington. Although these superficial biographical offerings barely scratch the surface of their subjects' lives, they may make good starting points for students writing reports. Black-and-white photos illustrate the texts. Bib., ind. [Review covers these Collective Biographies titles: Artists and Writers of the Harlem Renaissance, Ten Great American Composers, and American Women of Medicine.]

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta