Gangs

School Library Journal

Gr 7-9-Three series titles worth considering. They focus on current ``hot'' topics with an emphasis on broader implications of these social issues, as well as their effect on teens. The books are lively and readable; they include interviews with YAs and present scenarios in a question-and-answer format. Gangs offers an explanation of why kids join them, an exploration of their activities and violence, and advice for those wishing to avoid or quit them. Dropping Out of School examines the pressures, obstacles, and alternatives that dropouts face. Parental Umemployment discusses the pressures and dynamics within a family when a parent is without a job, and focuses on what teens can do to help during this time of crisis. The books are well organized and include clear graphics and national organizations and hot lines to turn to for help. Useful for reports as well as for students who are grappling with these issues in their own lives.-Doris A. Fong, Benson Polytechnic High School, Portland, OR