Marijuana

School Library Journal

Gr 8-10-Accessible books that adequately cover the history, the physical and mental effects, and the impact on society of illegal drugs. All three titles have sidebars, quotations, and diagrams to aid in understanding, as well as color photographs, some graphic, of users. They will be of interest to report writers and general readers and appeal to reluctant readers. Elliot-Wright clearly addresses the seriousness of an addiction to heroin. Social impacts such as neglected children, crime and prostitution, smuggling, and gangs are discussed. Prevention and treatment are examined in a straightforward manner. Ben Sonder's All about Heroin (Watts, 2002) is a more thoughtful and detailed treatment and lists more resources. Both Todd Howard's Heroin (Gale, 2002) and Carmen Ferreiro's Heroin (Chelsea House, 2003) offer more information. Cocaine examines how an addiction develops and the different forms of this drug. Sean Connolly's Cocaine (Heinemann Library, 2000) is not as well written but covers similar material for the same audience, as does Elaine Landau's Cocaine (Scholastic, 2003). James Barter's Cocaine and Crack (Gale, 2002) is more detailed. Marijuana describes the drug's negative effects and risks as well as its medical uses. Arguments for and against legalization are presented. Similar material for this audience is available in Sean Connolly's Marijuana (Heinemann Library, 2002) and Mary E. Williams's Marijuana (Gale, 2003). Randi Mehling's Marijuana (Chelsea House, 2003) is more detailed.-Debbie Stewart Hoskins, Grand Rapids Public Library, MI Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.