Grade 6 Up-Landau presents a look at this neurological disorder whose sufferers are prone to sudden and involuntary movements or sounds. The text makes it clear that while the cause is not known, there are medications that can help control the symptoms. In addition to the tics most commonly associated with the syndrome, many people are also afflicted with obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention deficit, or learning disabilities. The writing is clear and well organized, and the author includes a list of books, organizations, and Internet resources for further information. The quotes from people with TS and their families are particularly touching, making the text that much more approachable. An excellent overview of a misunderstood condition.
Christine A. Moesch, Buffalo & Erie County Public Library, NY
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Booklist
Gr. 6^-12. Using an unadorned style and easily understandable language, Landau looks at both the scientific and the social aspects of Tourette syndrome, a neurological condition marked by uncontrollable verbalization and involuntary tics. She presents information on cause and treatment, how the condition affects home and school life, and the ways some individuals have managed to achieve in spite of the condition. In addition to accounts about such well-known athletes as basketball player Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf and baseball star Jim Eisenreich, she includes profiles of a surgeon, an actor, a writer, and a musician whose careers have thrived. Notes lead readers to the secondary sources Landau used for her research--mostly articles from popular magazines and transcripts from TV shows. Lists of print and online sources and a state-by-state guide of helpful organizations are appended. Randy Meyer
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