From School Library Journal
Grade 6 Up-This comprehensive title gives a clearly written and well-organized survey of the over 5,000 year relationship between human beings and alcohol. Monroe sees alcohol as an "accepted drug" to which teens are especially vulnerable; they are influenced by its easy availability, peer pressure, poor role models, and media hype. Familial predisposition, which has been noted by researchers, is also addressed. Current treatment options for teens are outlined. One jarring statement, however, must be noted. The author writes that the 21st Amendment, which repealed Prohibition, was "passed by President Franklin Roosevelt." Presidents do not pass constitutional amendments. In scope and accessibility, this title ranks with Susan and David Cohen's A Six-Pack and a Fake I.D. (Evans, 1985). Herma Silverstein's Alcoholism (Watts, 1990) and Margaret Hyde's Alcohol (Enslow, 1988) are standards, as are Elizabeth Ryan's Straight Talk about Drugs and Alcohol (Facts on File, 1989) and Ross Fishman's Alcohol and Alcoholism (Chelsea, 1992). Brian Ward's Alcohol Abuse (Watts, 1988; o.p.) and Nancy Nielsen's Teen Alcoholism (Lucent, 1990) are for quick information.
Libby K. White, Schenectady County Public Library,
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Libby K. White, Schenectady County Public Library,
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Kirkus Reviews
In the Drug Library series, a well-researched but sketchily written treatment of alcohol and its effects on individuals and society. After presenting history and scary accounts of alcohol- generated health damage, Monroe eventually focuses on teenage drinking, following a lengthy chapter on prevention and treatment of alcoholism with stiff warnings against drunk driving and drinking while pregnant. She presents plenty of useful information from a wide variety of sources in each chapter, e.g., the historical notes on how different cultures favored particular crops for fermentation and a set of questions that readers can use to gauge their need for Alateen, but her analysis frequently stoops to overstatement. Are one third of all American women really alcoholics? And she quotes many experts (and a few teenagers) who make strong general statements but give no specific clarifying examples (e.g., how and why liquor advertisers appeal to children). A thorough treatment that lacks teen appeal. Glossary; end notes; resource list; bibliography; index. Illustrations not seen. (Nonfiction. 12+) -- Copyright ©1994, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.
