Leukemia

Children's Literature

The most common cancer among children, leukemia affects people of all ages. The necessary discussion of blood components and types of leukemia is presented clearly and is comprehensible for able readers. A chapter on causes of leukemia discusses speculation about the role of radiation and some chemicals as culprits and offers an informative discussion about DNA alterations in cells as inducers of the disease. With a nod to past researchers in the field, the history of treatment of leukemia is touched on. Treatments existing at the time this book was authored are briefly discussed, followed by a chapter on Living with Leukemia and one on the known drug testing, clinical trials and experimentation in progress at the time. Chapters are well labeled with concrete sub-headings, making it easy to find information. Black-and-white photographs and a few diagrams are annotated, making them of some interest. Back matter includes chapter references, a glossary, organizations to contact, a short reading and Web site list, a list of works consulted and an index. The book is one in the "Diseases and Disorders" series. The author is a widely published freelance writer, with a number of works on medical topics. This is a useful resource for information and reports, and will be useful to adult readers as well, albeit a bit pricey. 2003, Lucent Books/Thomson Learning/Gale Group, Ages 12 up.
— Elaine Wick

School Library Journal

Gr 5-8-These two volumes explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of two health conditions. Abramovitz addresses the different types of leukemia and how they are diagnosed, as well as the possible roles of electromagnetic fields, genetics, and chemicals in the development of the disease. New research techniques are described in detail, including stem cells, cytokines, replacement DNA, and Gleevec, a drug that targets a specific part of a gene. The seriousness of the disease is underscored by the black-and-white photos of weeping parents and of children receiving painful injections. Stewart addresses various types of sleep-related problems, such as insomnia, narcolepsy, night terrors, and apnea. Each disorder is fully explained in nontechnical terms. This volume also includes information about new research and medications, and the role of society in making people feel guilty for feeling tired or going to bed early. Most of the black-and-white photos in this title are merely decorative.-Christine A. Moesch, Buffalo & Erie County Public Library, NY Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.