(3) YA Hot Pro/Con Issues series. After an introduction on Dolly the sheep, this balanced exploration of the issues of human cloning explains the history of cloning attempts and a fairly simple explanation of the science, followed by chapters laying out the arguments for and against the use of the science to produce human clones. A chapter on the future of cloning concludes the volume, which is illustrated with color photos and diagrams. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Anita L. Burkam

(3) YA Hot Issues series. Six short chapters, illustrated with well-captioned color photographs, provide standard report information for students researching this topic. A chapter focusing on successful efforts to recover endangered species and a list of recommended organizations and websites are useful features. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Cindy Lombardo

(4) YA Hot Issues series. Useful for report writers, this is a critical look at cults, which are often hard to distinguish from (and sometimes become) established religions. The insights into cults' lure--young adults are notoriously susceptible--would have been enhanced by testimony from former members and by advice on what to do if a friend is indoctrinated. Profiles of well-known cults are accompanied by photos of renowned leaders. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(3) YA Hot Issues series. Pregnancy dissects the cost of teen parenthood to their children, society, and the teens themselves; Stalking discusses the issue in general terms but also focuses on teens' vulnerability. Both books are interested in larger cultural themes, such as how the media influences teen sexuality and encourages celebrity fixations. Cautionary anecdotes, photos, and sidebars reinforce the authors' points. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(4) YA Hot Issues series. If they get past the dull covers, teens writing school reports or looking for specific help and information will find that these two books present their topics clearly and reasonably thoroughly. Byers's stories about actual individuals are less successful because of their didactic and dire tone; Goodnough's are more balanced. Color photos and illustrations are included. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Cyrisse Jaffee

(4) YA Hispanic Biographies series. Goodnough's biography competently covers Bol_var's life and the politics and events in South America as he worked to liberate the continent from Spain. The author includes both Bol_var's successes and failures along with enough historical background to put his subject's life into context. The black-and-white photographs are poorly reproduced, but the writing is serviceable and the maps are clear. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Maeve Visser Knoth

(4) YA Hispanic Biographies series. Published spring 1998. These are clearly written, if occasionally repetitive, biographies of Cuban-American singer Estefan, Puerto Rican actor Juliß, and Chilean poet Neruda. The books trace their subjects' professional and personal lives, while emphasizing their Hispanic backgrounds. The accompanying black-and-white photographs are occasionally poorly reproduced. Neruda includes a glossary. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta