Current Issues

VOYA

This multivolume work contains more than 260 alphabetically arranged, cross-referenced articles dealing with topics as diverse as economics, environmentalism, terrorism, and modern health issues. Included in each volume are cross-references, additional sources (both print and Internet), and a cumulative index. Sidebars add additional information, and the inclusion of definitions in the margins also helps the reader. For the most part, articles avoid bias, presenting opposing views in a balanced manner. Although illustrations are included, they are used sparingly and do not contribute greatly to the set. The majority of articles tend to be two or three pages long in a large font and with enough white space to make the text accessible to more reluctant researchers. Articles generally include an overview of a topic and its history, and a presentation of opposing viewpoints. The presentations of the issues give the reader a good foundation upon which to build an understanding. The Additional Resources section provides general topical resources such as "Public Policy" and "Social Issues." Specific bibliographies and Web resource listings for specific topics would be of more use to a researcher. Providing a handy, quick reference work that concisely gives both sides of a topic, this set will be a welcomed addition to a school or public library. Glossary. Index. Photos. Biblio. Further Reading. Appendix. 2002, Macmillan, 1,112 pages in 4 vols. PLB
— Mike Brown

School Library Journal

Gr 7 Up-An encyclopedia of topical issues covering a wide range of subjects in history, government, sociology, economics, and the sciences. Standard subjects such as abortion and capital punishment share space with more recent newsmakers such as cloning, DNA testing, Megan's Law, and campaign financing. The 265 balanced entries are well organized; the longer articles are divided into separate sections. "Police" addresses law enforcement issues and community relations. Boldfaced subheadings further subdivide these sections, allowing students easy access. However, some entries, such as "Community," are too vague and do not provide substantial material. Sidebars offer related information, quotes, and definitions. Captioned black-and-white photos, charts, and tables are sprinkled throughout the set. A glossary, lengthy list of additional print and electronic resources, and cumulative index are included in each volume. A good choice for background on contemporary issues and a starting point for research, this resource updates Michael Kronenwetter's Encyclopedia of Modern American Social Issues (ABC-CLIO, 1997).-Carol Fazioli, formerly at The Brearley School, New York City Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.