Teenage Pregnancy

School Library Journal

Gr 7 UpPresented in an organized, accessible way, this series title addresses a current, controversial topic from a variety of perspectives. The editor explores the extent of the problem, issues related to prevention, and how to reduce its incidence in this country. Each chapter begins with an overview of its topic and previews the opinions presented. A summary of each viewpoint and questions to consider help focus each essay. One of the book's strengths is that it provides readers with views of a problem they may have only considered from a personal standpoint. It is a wonderful tool for critical thinking and will prepare readers to deal with the topic in the general media and for participating in conversation with others. However, it is a weakness that the articles deal with the issue mainly from a policy standpoint and from a national perspective. The minimal inclusion of young adult views is limiting. Some writers do include people's statements of personal experience, but these presentations are secondhand, filtered through adult perceptions and arguments.Melissa Gross, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA