(4) YA Issues in Focus Today series. Seven chapters examine religion and free speech within the context of public, private, and political life. The book tackles issues challenging the separation of church and state, such as religion and the Constitution, holiday celebrations in schools, and religious symbolism. The short, accessible chapters are accompanied by stock photographs, some art reproductions, and occasional sidebars in an uninspired design. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Cindy Lombardo

(4) 4-6 Africa series. Captioned illustrations and maps accent these African countries' struggles with ethnic and political unrest and health and environmental challenges. For easy access, "Quick Facts" summarize the geography, economics, and population information. Readers will have to search the texts to find any positive aspects of these countries. There are eight other spring 2005 books in the series. Reading list, recipes, websites. Glos., ind. Review covers these Africa titles: Burundi, Ethiopia, Kenya, Ivory Coast, and Tanzania.

Reviewer: Christina Dorr

(4) YA Teen Issues series. A cautionary text describes the dangers of cyberspace, including computer crime, viruses, and potential adult predators. Tips for online safety and netiquette are included, although teenagers may generally be too sophisticated to need this information. The accompanying black-and-white photos, such as the picture of race cars illustrating the concept of the "information superhighway," often seem unnecessary. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta