(4) YA Pure Poetry series. Each volume presents eight poems on its topic, with analysis, literary criticism, biographical information, and further study questions. The discussion is thorough enough to make students feel familiar with the poems and poets. The books suffer from a frothy design, but portraits of the poets and occasional sidebars and callouts break up the text visually. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind. Review covers these Pure Poetry titles: Death Poetry, Love Poetry, Beauty Poetry, and Nature Poetry.

Reviewer: Shoshana Flax

(3) YA Poetry Rocks! series. This series explores American and British poetry of different periods, focusing on major poets of the times. Short biographical sketches (including some photographs), notable works, and the significance of the poets' writings are explored. The texts are clear and informative. Analysis is particularly engaging, making the books useful for drawing high school students into the study of poetry. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind. Review covers these Poetry Rocks! titles: Early American Poetry, Early British Poetry, and Modern American Poetry.

Reviewer: Aishah Abdul-Musawwir

(4) 4-6 Federal Government series. This series provides insight into operations of the three major branches of U.S. government plus other lesser-known agencies. The texts, though dry, are well researched and informative. While the photographs add interest, some are fuzzy or otherwise of poor quality. Reproductions of screen shots are too small for easy reading, but web addresses will be useful for those who want additional information. Websites. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers these Federal Government titles: Independent Government Agencies, The Judicial Branch, America's Security Agencies, The Executive Branch, and The Legislative Branch.

Reviewer: Luther B. Clegg

(4) YA Understanding Literature series. This series explores the biographical and historical factors that influenced these authors. Each book includes a detailed synopsis of the subject's life and his selected works. Though dry, the books will provide a solid background for readers seeking a deeper understanding of literary classics. Some sidebars and photographs help break up the text. Reading list, timeline, websites. Glos., ind. Review covers these Understanding Literature titles: A Student's Guide to Jack London, A Student's Guide to Mark Twain, and A Student's Guide to Tennessee Williams.

Reviewer: Allison Cole