The Abortion Battle: Looking at Both Sides

School Library Journal

Gr 7 UpThis unbiased series entry defines abortion from the medical and philosophical perspectives; presents the history of its practice; discusses the right-to-life view and the pro-choice stance; and tells readers where to go for more information. Lowenstein does a commendable job of presenting facts and balancing the pros and cons of both sides of the emotionally charged issue. "Who is right? You will have to decide for yourself. Your view on abortion is a distinctly personal choice." The text is clearly written and appears in slightly larger print than that usually found in nonfiction for this audience. Black-and-white photographs are informative and support the text. A listing of states and their requirements for parental consent for an abortion is appended, as are chapter notes and a list of national hotlines. The author includes interviews with young women who have faced the decision. For more information on some of the key players and policy formation related to the subject, combine Lowenstein's book with Nancy Day's Abortion (Enslow, 1995). An excellent choice for current information on this topic.Joan Soulliere, Wenham Public Library, MA