(3) YA In American History series. Touching on Alcatraz's earlier incarnations as the island home of an army fort, a lighthouse, and a military prison, this book concentrates on the years 1934 to 1963, when it served as a federal prison known for its high profile inmates and its reputation for being "inescapable." The cogent text, illustrated with black-and-white photos, discusses daily life in the prison, as well as some of its famous prisoners and escape attempts. A time line is included. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(4) YA A comprehensive primer on the gay rights movement is evenhanded. The section called "Organizations Concerned with Gay Rights" lists both pro-gay and "family values" groups, and images include a map indicating states with anti-sodomy laws and a photo of antigay activist Reverend Lou Sheldon. Kids will learn much from these eight dispassionate (if sympathetic) chapters provided their attention holds. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Nell Beram