Hot Topics
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Gangs
by Jennifer MacKay
Part of the Hot Topics series
According to the FBI, 33,000 violent street gangs, motorcycle gangs, and prison gangs, with nearly 1.4 million members, are criminally active in the U.S. today. One of the most notorious and dangerous gangs, Mara Salvatrucha, or MS-13, originated in Los Angeles and has as many as 50,000 members. The Justice Department credits gangs with illegal smuggling, transportation, and distribution of large amounts of drugs in the United States. This expansive volume explores the issues surrounding gangs. The book tackles the history of gangs in America, the relationship between gangs and culture, and gangs as businesses.
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Domestic Terrorism
by Carla Mooney
Part of the Hot Topics series
The FBI defines domestic terrorism as terrorism involving groups based in and operating entirely within the U.S. and its territories. According to the Global Terrorism Database, there have been 2,608 total attacks and 226 fatal attacks in the U.S. between 1970 and 2011. This thought-provoking edition focuses on issues related to domestic terrorism. It provides details on how domestic terrorism is different than other types of terrorism, the tactics that specific domestic terrorist groups use, and what can be done to prevent future attacks.
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Immigration Issues in America
by Michelle Denton
Part of the Hot Topics series
Every wave of immigrants entering the United States has faced prejudice. As each group gradually assimilates into the dominant culture, it becomes easy to forget the anger that was previously directed at them. People always believe that the next group of immigrants poses a more severe threat than the ones that came before them, but readers discover that these fears often prove to be unfounded. Detailed infographics and full-color photographs supplement the informative text's analysis of the history of immigration, its economic implications, and what immigration policies should be implemented in the future.
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Self-Harm
by Toney Allman
Part of the Hot Topics series
Self-harm is a problem many young adults struggle with silently. Decreasing the stigma surrounding this phenomenon is key to ending its prevalence. Using charts and full-color photographs, the underlying causes of this dangerous trend are examined, helping readers understand the reasons why they harm themselves and recognize the signs in others. Contact information is provided for organizations that young adults can turn to for emotional support and healthier ways to cope with stress.
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Hate Crimes
When Intolerance Turns Violent
by Meghan Sharif
Part of the Hot Topics series
Hate crimes can take many forms. Assaulting someone, vandalizing their property, or simply making them feel threatened are all considered hate crimes when they are motivated by animosity for a particular group. Readers learn that these offenses often take place because the perpetrator has a fundamental misunderstanding or fear of the people in that targeted group. Informative charts and discussion questions for each chapter encourage readers to think critically about the way people's biases can dictate their behavior in ways that harm others.
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Sports Violence
by Anne Wallace Sharp
Part of the Hot Topics series
Sports violence, according to National Collegiate Athletic Association, is a behavior that aims to harm another player as a primary goal. According to a NCAA Social Environments Study, 45 percent of men and 29 percent of women are willing to do whatever it takes to win, and more than a fifth of men believe winning is more important that good sportsmanship. This accessible edition examines the issues surrounding violence in the world of sports and provides an overview of the topic. Readers will be inspired to think critically about topics such as the reduction and prevention of violence in sports, violence perpetrated by non-athletes such as spectators and coaches, and the relationship between competition and aggression.
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Teens and Alcohol
by Michael V. Uschan
Part of the Hot Topics series
According to the 2015 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 7.7 million Americans between the ages of 12 and 20 admit to consuming alcohol. However, overall rates of past month consumption, binge drinking, and heavy alcohol use have declined significantly between 2006 and 2015. This compelling resource offers a comprehensive and balanced discussion of teen alcohol consumption. The book takes a critical look at the many reasons teens drink, the history of drinking age laws, the emergence of hosting laws, and the punishment of parents who supply alcohol to their teenager.
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Bullying
by Jennifer MacKay
Part of the Hot Topics series
According to the Department of Health and Public Services, 28 percent of U.S. students in grades 6-12 have experienced bullying, and 30 percent of young people admit to bullying. Types of bullying vary widely in severity and can include physical, verbal, social, and cyber bullying. This essential volume explores the characteristics of those who bully, why certain people fall victim to such abuse, the causes of bullying, the physical and psychological impact of bullying, and how bullying can be prevented.
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Rape Culture
How Can We End It?
by Michelle Denton
Part of the Hot Topics series
Rape culture is the normalization of sexual assault and degradation of victims. Things such as catcalls and explicit song lyrics may seem harmless, but they contribute to an atmosphere where people, particularly women, are regarded as objects. This makes it easier for rapists to justify their actions to themselves. Readers are introduced to these and other crucial points about this important social issue and the rising level of awareness surrounding it. Relatable text, discussion questions, and informative fact boxes teach young adults what rape culture is and how they can fight it to make society safer for everyone.
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Obesity
An American Epidemic
by Emily Mahoney
Part of the Hot Topics series
Due to economic factors, larger portion sizes in restaurants, and sedentary lifestyles caused by an increase in our use of technology, obesity rates have risen steadily in the last decade. This, in turn, has created a multimillion-dollar diet industry that often preys on people's desire to lose weight quickly and easily. Through full-color photographs and engaging sidebars, readers will learn about the complex causes of obesity, as well as ways to live a healthier lifestyle. What can be done to reverse this trend? Discussion questions such as this one are waiting for readers to debate.
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Gender Identity
The Search for Self
by Kate Light
Part of the Hot Topics series
As acceptance for the LGBT community grows, our society is coming to understand that many gender identities are not binary. Young adulthood is a critical time for exploring and coming to terms with gender identity. Readers learn about non-binary identities and the issues the community still faces despite the progress that has been made in the 21st century. Fact boxes highlight transgender and non-binary role models in the media, and contact information for LGBT organizations is provided. This volume is an important resource for young adults of all genders and their allied friends and family.
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Eating Disorders
by Toney Allman
Part of the Hot Topics series
The National Institute of Mental Health cites anorexia nervosa with the highest mortality rate of any mental disorder. Restricted eating, emaciation, relentless pursuit of thinness, fear of gaining weight, and distorted body image are just a few symptoms of this condition. Eating disorders affect both men and women, however, women are affected two and a half times more than men. This necessary resource examines issues surrounding various eating disorders. Readers learn about the causes of eating disorders, how to diagnose them, and what types of treatments are available.
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Drug Abuse
Inside an American Epidemic
by Nicole Horning
Part of the Hot Topics series
Drug abuse is not a new phenomenon, but it seems as though the problem has become worse in recent years, especially as prescription opioid and heroin abuse has skyrocketed. Is this an accurate view, or has the media inflated the problem? Which drugs are at the forefront of this current national crisis? Readers discover the answers to these questions and many more as they explore well-researched, unbiased text. Through full-color photographs, detailed sidebars, and annotated quotes from leading experts, this volume discusses the most pressing issues in today's drug abuse epidemic.
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Methamphetamine
by Kevin Hillstrom
Part of the Hot Topics series
The National Institute of Health states that methamphetamine increases the amount of dopamine in the brain, a chemical that is involved in body movement, motivation, pleasure, and reward. The drug causes an intense high which fades quickly. Nearly 1.2 million people reported using the drug in the past year, while 440,000 people reported using it in the past month. This crucial edition delves into the history of methamphetamine as a recreational drug and as a big business for criminal enterprises. It also discusses the toll that methamphetamine addiction takes on its users, as well as families and communities in general. The book concludes by discussing processes and methods used to treat meth addiction and how law enforcement agencies are trying to combat the meth industry.
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Biological Weapons
Using Nature to Kill
by Anna Collins
Part of the Hot Topics series
Throughout history, armies have used various kinds of germs to cripple their enemies. International treaties currently outlaw the use of biological weapons, but this does not necessarily mean that none are being developed. Through informative text, augmented by detailed infographics and sidebars, readers learn about the history of biological warfare and ways it can be avoided in the future. Annotated quotes from experts on this topic and discussion questions are also included to give readers a deeper understanding of the many facets of this complex topic.
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Racism in America
A Long History of Hate
by Meghan Green
Part of the Hot Topics series
Although racism still exists in the United States, it has generally become more subtle, leading some to deny that it is still a problem. Now that institutional segregation is no longer considered acceptable, some people argue that racism as a whole has been eradicated. Readers discover that this mindset ignores covert, or hidden, racism, which often deals with assumptions: for example, that a black mother does not have a husband or that all Hispanic people are Mexican. In-depth sidebars, discussion questions, and detailed photographs augment the engaging text as it discusses the history of American racism and its lasting effects.
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The Death Penalty
Just Punishment or Cruel Practice?
by Allison Krumsiek
Part of the Hot Topics series
When a violent crime is committed, some people believe the only fair punishment is for the perpetrator to be put to death. Others feel that this practice is inhumane and that no one should be deliberately killed, regardless of what he or she may have done. This volume examines the history of the death penalty, the ways it is administered, and the arguments for and against it. Chapter questions encourage discussion among readers, and detailed charts and compelling sidebars enhance readers' understanding of this hotly debated topic.
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Body Image
by Ronald D. Lankford Jr.
Part of the Hot Topics series
Body image is the mental picture you have of your body that influences factors like confidence, weight control, and self-esteem. This expansive volume delves into the complex topic of body image. The book discusses what body image is, how society and culture affect body image, and if advertising distorts body image. Readers are provided with discussion questions, a list of organizations to contact, and a comprehensive index.
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Civil Liberties
The Fight for Personal Freedom
by Allison Krumsiek
Part of the Hot Topics series
Although the civil liberties of American citizens are protected under the Constitution, these rights are often violated by both individuals and the government, and obtaining justice can be a difficult process. Students, in particular, struggle for their legal rights; many people incorrectly assume that these rights can be dictated by school authorities. Through enlightening infographics, sidebars, discussion questions, and quote boxes featuring comments by experts, this volume explores the rights all Americans are entitled to and the fight to protect those rights.
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Join the Army
by P. P. Mitchell
Part of the Hot Topics series
Everyone's heard of the army, but how do you join? What's it like being in the army? How do the rankings work? Written in accessible language and with a colorful layout, this high-interest book will appeal to readers of all abilities! Full-color photography, and even a diagram explaining the uniform, bring each spread of this book to life, while focused, useful fact boxes develop a deeper understanding of the army by providing historical information.
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Eating Disorders
When Food Is an Obsession
by Kristen Rajczak Nelson
Part of the Hot Topics series
Eating disorders are mental illnesses that have dangerous physical consequences. Young adults are most at risk for developing these disorders. This volume aims to educate readers about the causes and effects of disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, and compulsive eating. Fact boxes highlight the stories of celebrities who struggle with these issues, and full-color photographs show the unglamorous reality of living with an eating disorder. Websites are provided to promote healthy lifestyles as well as give help to readers who are already battling these serious conditions.
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Health Care
Limits, Laws, and Lives at Stake
by Tyler Stevenson
Part of the Hot Topics series
Health care reform has been at the center of political debate during the past decade. Everyone agrees the current system needs changes, but it seems few people can agree on how many changes and what kind. Some believe it simply needs a few small adjustments, while others believe it should be completely scrapped and rebuilt from the ground up. Detailed graphs, full-color photographs, annotated quotes from experts, and enlightening sidebars augment the informative text to present readers with all sides of the issue, helping them form their own opinions and strengthen their critical-thinking skills.
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Hoarding
by Jennifer MacKay
Part of the Hot Topics series
The Anxiety and Depression Association of America describes hoarding as persistent difficulty in discarding or parting with possessions. In the United States, 700,000 to 1.4 million people suffer from compulsive hoarding. This informative volume covers the psychological elements of compulsive hoarding but also addresses the legal implications of hoarding. Media coverage of hoarding and the development of reality television shows devoted to the controversial subject are also explored.
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Online Activism
Social Change Through Social Media
by Amanda Vink
Part of the Hot Topics series
The growth of the Internet has changed almost every aspect of society, and social activism is no exception. Circulating petitions and organizing rallies is easier than ever, but so is the illusion of creating change without putting in effort. Readers learn the ways activism has changed in the Internet era. The informative text is supplemented with detailed charts and annotated quotes presenting multiple points of view. By learning more about online activism, young adults can become more informed about how to take a stand on issues they are passionate about.
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Political Corruption and the Abuse of Power
by Sarah Machajewski
Part of the Hot Topics series
Throughout history, gaining political power has frequently led to unethical behavior. It is difficult for people to resist the temptation to abuse their power. In the worst cases, this has led to political unrest, economic instability, and genocide. Reade
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Join the Navy
by P. P. Mitchell
Part of the Hot Topics series
How is the navy different than the coast guard or marines? Don't they all work on boats? This book combines a high-interest topic with an accessible reading level that will grab the attention of even struggling readers. Helpful and captivating full-color photographs and diagrams illuminate the main content, while fact boxes help readers develop a deeper understanding of the navy by providing a historical frame of reference. Readers will explore the Navy's missions, uniforms, special ops, ranks, equipment, and so much more!
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Join the Air Force
by P. P. Mitchell
Part of the Hot Topics series
Most readers will at least have a cursory awareness of the air force, the awesome, flying arm of the US military fleet. This book is the next step for readers to learn and understand how to become part of this fighting force. Readers will enter the exciting world of the air force through accessible language and focused information that appeals to even reluctant readers. Full-color photographs-and a bonus diagram of the uniforms-bring the content to life, while fact boxes throughout provide a historical frame of reference.
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The Dangers of Digital Addiction
by Amanda Vink
Part of the Hot Topics series
Technology has done a lot of good, connecting individuals and ideas. However, technological devices and social media platforms also have the potential to be harmful when they are not used in moderation. When the use of personal digital devices starts interfering with a person's daily life, it becomes a problem. Readers explore the ways in which some people can develop addictive digital habits and whether or not technology hinders their ability to live a healthy lifestyle. Additional information is presented through charts, sidebars, and annotated quotes, and discussion questions prompt readers to consider their own digital behaviors.
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Video Games and Esports
The Growing World of Gamers
by Michael Maley
Part of the Hot Topics series
Just as athletes from the NFL and NBA have gained fame and fortune, professional gamers who compete in esports are attracting loyal fans. Esports encompass any competitive, organized gaming endeavor. This competitive activity is becoming a billion-dollar industry. However, some people still argue that playing video games has many negative effects. The ever-evolving world of video games is explained through engaging text that delves into the details so readers gain a full understanding. Full-color photographs, annotated quotes, sidebars, and informative charts highlight the many debates surrounding the popularity of video games.
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The Gun Control Debate
From Classrooms to Congress
by Lianna Tatman
Part of the Hot Topics series
The recent sharp rise in school shootings in the United States has kept the gun control debate going. However, for many people, it is an emotional topic, making much of the information that people hear in the media or from friends and family members biased in one way or another. Understanding the history of gun laws in America and the realities of both sides of the issue is pivotal. Up-to-date statistics, annotated quotes from experts, and real-world examples contextualize the arguments surrounding this complex issue. This knowledge allows young adults to become informed participants in the gun control debate.
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Gangs
From the Streets to Social Media
by Anna Collins
Part of the Hot Topics series
Gangs have both worried and fascinated Americans for many years, but gangs are not a uniquely American problem; they can be found all over the world, from Sweden to Japan. Most of what people learn about gangs through movies and television does not reflect the reality researchers have discovered through firsthand studies of gang life. The detailed main text, informative charts, annotated quotes from experts, and full-color photographs explore this reality and various social factors that allow gangs to arise. With this knowledge, young adults can identify areas where they can make a difference in their own communities.
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Reality Television
Guilty Pleasure or Positive Influence?
by Tyler Stevenson
Part of the Hot Topics series
Reality television grew to massive popularity in the early 2000s, as the medium exploded into what it is today. It seems as if every channel now has multiple reality programs, broadcasting for hours each day. Readers discover the roots of this genre and the controversies surrounding it. Presented alongside the main text are detailed charts and in-depth sidebars to educate readers about one of the most popular genres in television. The question of whether reality television can ever be more than just a guilty pleasure is also addressed, and readers are prompted through discussion questions to form intelligent opinions about it.
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The Global Threat of Terrorism
by Jason Brainard
Part of the Hot Topics series
The international war on terror has been the focus of news reports for decades, but the information presented by the media can be confusing to people with little background on the subject. Readers explore the history of modern terrorism, various definitions of what constitutes terrorism, and key acts of political violence by both foreign and domestic terrorists. Detailed charts, quotes from experts in the study of terrorism, and in-depth sidebars help readers understand this complex issue and form their own opinions of how it can best be addressed, which they can share by answering thought-provoking discussion questions on this topic.
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Pandemics
Deadly Disease Outbreaks
by Michelle Denton
Part of the Hot Topics series
As the world becomes more connected, the threat of pandemics becomes more serious, and being informed about fast-spreading illnesses is more important now than ever before. Readers explore global diseases of the past and present, how modern outbreaks are controlled and treated, and how doctors and scientists are working to prevent pandemics in the future. In-depth sidebars, full-color photographs, annotated quotes from medical experts, and discussion questions highlight important topics and encourage readers to expand their critical thinking skills as they learn about public health policy and the social impacts of infectious diseases.
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Cyber Mobs
Destructive Online Communities
by Allison Krumsiek
Part of the Hot Topics series
The Internet has made it easier than ever for people to connect, but their interactions are not always friendly. Any perceived fault can cause someone to be attacked by a cyber-mob-a group of people intent on humiliating someone online. Relatable text addresses this relatively new phenomenon, giving readers information about the rise of cyber mobs, the social and psychological effects on their victims, and ways to combat them. Engaging sidebars provide examples of cyber mob attacks, and a list of resources is provided for anyone who may be experiencing online bullying.
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Steroid Abuse
by Tamara L. Roleff
Part of the Hot Topics series
The National Institute on Drug Abuse defines the term anabolic steroid as any synthetic variation of the male hormone testosterone. Steroids can be used to treat hormonal issues and can help combat muscular atrophy and other conditions. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts can also abuse them for purposes of performance enhancement or for the improvement of physical appearance. This informative edition describes issues pertaining to steroid abuse. It explores both the body building benefits that steroids offer and the dangerous side effects of the drugs. Since the International Olympics Committee and many professional sports organizations have banned their use, the issues surrounding regulation and testing are also addressed.
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Gun Control
by Jennifer MacKay
Part of the Hot Topics series
According to the Mass Shooting Tracker, there have been 1,744 mass shootings in the United States since 2013. The Second Amendment grants citizens of the United States the right to bear arms, but gun control laws vary from state to state. Many people lobby for stricter federal gun control in order to curb gun-related deaths, while others perceive regulation as an infringement on rights. This timely edition takes a look at one of the most contested issues in American government and society today: the policing and regulation of firearms. Individual chapters will cover the history of gun control in the United States, the spectrum of opinions on firearms regulation, the meaning of the Second Amendment, arguments in favor of and those against tighter gun control, and various types of legislation being considered.
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Abortion
A Continuing Debate
by Meghan Green
Part of the Hot Topics series
Should abortion be legal? How late in a pregnancy should a woman be allowed to have an abortion? What impact would outlawing abortion have on women, especially those who live in poverty? Readers learn about these and other abortion concerns; all sides of the debate are discussed to help them form their own opinions. Informative charts and in-depth sidebars highlight important facts about this controversial topic, and a list of discussion questions is included to give them a starting point for further debate and guided thinking about this complex issue.
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Body Image and Body Shaming
by Meghan Green
Part of the Hot Topics series
Puberty is a critical time for young adults in forming a positive self-image. They are constantly bombarded with images and comments regarding ideal body types from the media, friends, and family. Through charts and full-color photographs, readers gain information about the subjectivity of beauty standards and the importance of being healthy regardless of body type. The material engages readers and allows them to think critically about the stereotypes they are subjected to. A list of websites is included to offer them assistance in dealing with the pressure of conforming to expectations.
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Poverty and Economic Inequality
by Meghan Sharif
Part of the Hot Topics series
Although millions of Americans live below the poverty line, economic inequality is still a frequently misunderstood issue. Myths about poverty that have been thoroughly debunked are still commonly circulated, and this type of misunderstanding leads to poor communication and tension between people of different economic classes. The goal of this volume is to reduce that misunderstanding and present readers with the facts and realities of economic inequality. In-depth sidebars, full-color photographs, and educational graphs present essential information about this complex issue. Annotated quotes are also included to provide first-person perspectives to deepen readers' critical thinking skills.
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The Climate Change Crisis
by Anna Collins
Part of the Hot Topics series
Scientists have long warned people of the dangers of climate change, so why do some people insist it is not a problem? What can be done to reverse the effects of this dangerous trend? This volume answers these questions and more, highlighting important points with engaging sidebars, full-color photographs, detailed graphs, and annotated quotes by experts. Readers learn how our world is being affected and how they can play a role in minimizing the damage. Climate change is a topic that is often in the news, and readers will be better equipped to understand it thanks to this informative book.
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Join the Marines
by P. P. Mitchell
Part of the Hot Topics series
The marines make headlines frequently for their daring missions and bravery. There's no better time than now to offer this inside look into how one becomes a marine and into the life of these incredible heroes in a way that will appeal to even reluctant readers! Through age-appropriate content about duties, rankings, special ops, and even uniforms, this book fosters a deeper understanding of the men and women who serve our country at an accessible reading level. Fact boxes on each spread expand the experience by providing historical context.
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Join the Coast Guard
by P. P. Mitchell
Part of the Hot Topics series
The coast guard is a unique branch of the US military, operating under the Department of Homeland Security during peacetime, but able to be transferred to the navy by the president or Congress. They are organized in a way that allows for quick response to crises such as Hurricane Katrina and Tropical Storm Rita. Learning about this special part of the US military will appeal to readers of all abilities! Artwork including full-color photographs and diagrams bring this book to life, and a historical frame of reference is provided on each spread through fascinating fact boxes.
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Join the National Guard
by P. P. Mitchell
Part of the Hot Topics series
Many readers know or have heard of someone who's served in the US National Guard, but they likely don't have an understanding of what this home defense force does for our country. This volume blends interesting, focused information about a high-interest topic with accessible language to create a reading experience that even struggling readers will enjoy! Full-color photographs and even a diagram breaking down the uniform bring to life engaging content, while fact boxes develop a deeper understanding of the national guard by providing a historical frame of reference.
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Fake News and Media Bias
by Lucian Vance
Part of the Hot Topics series
Although news outlets are meant to be impartial, they have never been perfectly unbiased. Another layer was added to the ongoing debate over the role of news media after the 2016 U.S. presidential election, when allegations of fake news surfaced. How can people know which news sources to trust? This volume explores the fake news phenomenon and offers readers tips on how to be critical of what they see reported. Full-color photographs, engaging sidebars, and discussion questions enhance the compelling text as it explores this crucial aspect of a democratic society.
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Student Rights in a New Age of Activism
by Anna Collins
Part of the Hot Topics series
In the United States, the rights of people under the age of 18 are a hotly debated and frequently misunderstood topic. Certain rights are protected for students by the U.S. Constitution, but many people are unsure of what those rights are. Some people eve
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Violence and Sports
Dangerous Games
by Tyler Stevenson
Part of the Hot Topics series
Violence is considered an acceptable and sometimes desirable part of many organized sports. Hard hits are praised in football and hockey, and boxers are idolized for being able to knock out their opponents. What kinds of implications can the normalization of violence have off of the field? Readers are presented with examples of sports-related violence and various theories for why violence among athletes is so prevalent. Presented alongside the unbiased narrative are quotes from athletes and other experts, detailed charts, and engaging sidebars that encourage young adults to think critically about this serious issue.
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Animal Rights
A Complex Debate
by Tyler Stevenson
Part of the Hot Topics series
The balance of power between states and the federal government has long been a point of contention. In an era when one political party controls the three branches of the federal government, the possibility to employ states' rights to resist objectionable federal policy has made it a highly contemporary issue. With states' rights at the center of issues like sanctuary cities, abortion, gun control, and LGBTQ rights, understanding the distribution of power between state and federal government is key to grasping the current political climate and the future of American politics.