Marijuana

School Library Journal

Gr 6-10Each volume covers the history of a type of drug use, placing it in its medical and societal context before going on to discuss specific physical effects and dangers, as well as personal and social impact. The authors are thorough and frank, particularly in describing the "high" obtained from using marijuana or hallucinogens, but equally clear in detailing the dangers of recreational drug use. Their scientific approach is balanced with numerous first-hand accounts and case studies, all well documented, which not only illustrate the personal ruin that often results from drug abuse, but also the hope for recovery that lies in treatment. Significant space is devoted to discussion of why young people become involved in drug abuse and where they can get help. Thought-provoking discussion questions complete each chapter. Careful consideration of the legalization of marijuana is included. Clearly written, both titles will appeal to either interested readers or report writers. The black-and-white photos are for the most part merely decorative. Paula Klevan Zeller's Focus on Marijuana and Jeffrey Shulman's Focus on Hallucinogens (both 21st Century, 1991) are for slightly younger audiences. Sandra Lee Smith's Marijuana (1995) and Peyote and Magic Mushrooms (1994, both Rosen) are also written with a younger audience in mind. Margaret O. Hyde's Mind Drugs (Putnam, 1986; o.p.) offers an excellent treatment of drug abuse in general.Joyce Adams Burner, Hillcrest Library, Prairie Village, KS