Some 160 issues, ideas, policies, events, and the like are covered by Kronenwetter, the author of several books on various social issues, whose purpose here "is to provide, in a single source, the information and explanations necessary for a basic understanding of the problems and controversies that have faced and continue to face the United States." Emphasis is on the 20th century. Entries, averaging about 700 words in length, are arranged alphabetically, with cross references, an index, and usually one bibliographic reference. The writing is clear, and longer entries are subdivided; where there are two sides to an issue, arguments are presented in a balanced way. Still, this work is too selective in coverage to serve effectively as an encyclopedia for a subject as broad as 20th-century American social issues. Although it offers an introduction to a fairly wide selection of topics in the field, many relevant topics are omitted. A much more comprehensive source is the six-volume Encyclopedia of Social Issues (Marshall Cavendish, 1997). Kronenwetter's encyclopedia will provide a good starting point for many student papers and as such is recommended especially for high school and public libraries and for academic libraries serving undergraduates.Mary Jane Brustman, SUNY at Albany Libs.
Gr 7 UpThis volume provides information on controversial issues students are likely to confront in the news, at school, or around the dinner table. Entries are arranged from A to Z and include topics such as abortion, child abuse, drug testing, gun control, Head Start, Roe v. Wade, same-sex marriages, secondhand smoke, and sexual-predator laws. The well-balanced articles provide several viewpoints for controversial issues. The entry on Ebonics, for instance, presents definitions and explanations of the linguistic, social, and educational issues involved, as well as the specifics of the controversy surrounding the Oakland, CA, Board of Education, showing the perspectives of both the critics and apologists for the Board's resolution to treat Ebonics as a separate language. Although the author deals with landfills and Superfund, there is almost a complete absence of entries on environmental controversies such as energy conservation, emissions regulations, global warming, population-control issues, or wildlife conservation/endangered species problems. Unfortunately, only a few of the articles offer lists of further reading. Still, this clearly written book is a good starting point for students who need an overview. It might help them to identify and clarify ideas before doing research in SIRS "Social Issues Resource" series or CQ Researcher.Judith V. Lechner, Auburn University, AL
A reference source providing basic information on key concepts, terms, and events related to social welfare and reform, civil rights, politics, government, the environment, media, economics, health, family, religion, law, and education in 20th century America. Some 160 entries are arranged alphabetically by subject and cross-referenced. A sampling of topics: affirmative action, the death penalty, downsizing, immigration, television violence, and spouse abuse. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.
