(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) 4-6 Incredibly Disgusting Food series. The authors straightforwardly examine junk food ingredients and discuss their negative health effects on both children and adults. The volumes are useful without being too preachy; there's definitely an agenda here, but there's no arguing with the solid, convincing facts (sensationalized titles and gross photos of rotting teeth--Carbonated--and toes--Salty--aside). Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers these Incredibly Disgusting Food titles: Carbonated Beverages, Salty and Sugary Snacks, Fake Foods, and Mystery Meat.

Reviewer: Bridget McCaffrey

(3) YA Poetry Rocks! series. This series explores American, British, and world poetry, focusing on cultural traditions and major poets of the times. A biography of each poet, some of his or her notable pieces, and explanations of the poems' significance are offered. Clear, easily understandable analysis of the works continues to be an excellent feature of the series. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind. Review covers these Poetry Rocks! titles: Modern British Poetry, World Poetry, and Contemporary American Poetry.

Reviewer: Aishah Abdul-Musawwir

(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