Books in In the news series

One cannot open a college newspaper today without seeing ads offering young women money to donate eggs (ova). With the combination of two trends—the increasing financial pressure on young women and the increasing demand for donor eggs due to delayed marriage and childbearing—some experts see a potential problem. Do the young donors fully understand the physical and emotional health risks they face when donating eggs for money? This book explains the current controversy in a straightforward manner, explaining the basic science behind egg harvesting and in vitro fertilization and describing the process donors go through to help other women conceive. Potential health risks and ethical concerns are explored as well.

Most teenagers are familiar with the concept of slavery from studying history. However, many are unaware that slavery still flourishes around the world today, even within the borders of the United States. In fact, the modern slave trade is a lucrative criminal enterprisethe third most profitable in the world after drug trafficking and the illegal sale of arms and munitions. It affects millions of people who are forced to work by threat of mental and physical abuse, in inhuman conditions, for little or no pay. This book illuminates this modern-day tragedy for teen readers with clear explanations and examples drawn from around the world. Current efforts to combat the problem and to provide reparations are discussed, and the author includes practical suggestions to help teens act as modern-day abolitionists.

Robert Downey Jr. is one of the most famous and influential actors in Hollywood. Since 2008, he has been at the center of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but the road to his role as Iron Man was difficult. Readers discover how he has become an inspiration to those who are struggling with personal demons, especially substance abuse, and how he overcame those struggles to return to the spotlight. Through sidebars, annotated quotations, and full-color photographs, this book allows readers to gain a deeper appreciation for Robert Downey Jr.'s acting skills and personal resilience.

The United States is undergoing one of the worst recessions in recent memory. Although the state of the economy has a direct impact upon every citizen, the factors that caused it are seldom presented to young readers. This book examines the root causes of the crisis, as well as financial markets, economic regulation, economic theory, and the housing crisis.

Medical advances have made organ donation and organ transplant more important than ever, with the potential to save thousands of lives every year. This book discusses issues related to organ donation, donor registration, transplant surgery, and living with a donated organ. It also takes a close look at the practical, legal, and ethical aspects of modern organ donation.