Books in Monsters!: Hot Topics series

This new title in Lucent's Hot Topic series examines the development of methamphetamine from a legal drug used to treat various illnesses to a dangerous street drug. The title goes on to discuss the physical and mental toll the drug takes on addicts as we; Young people today are inundated with information but often lack the tools for understanding the complex issues that stir public debate; this series provides clear, balanced, and thoughtful examination of the hot-button issues of the day.; Carefully crafted narrative, fully documented primary and secondary source quotations, informative sidebars, and study questions all provide excellent starting points for research and discussion. Full-color photographs, maps, and charts enhance volumes in

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.

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.

"Domestic violence often seems clear-cut, but some forms of abuse are not as easy to identify as physical abuse. Emotional abuse leaves no visible marks, although its effect on a person's psyche can be just as devastating. Understanding abuse is the first step toward ending an abusive relationship. Enlightening charts, annotated quotes from experts, and real-world examples help young adults identify abuse in relationships with romantic partners, close friends, or family members"--

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.

"Domestic violence often seems clear-cut, but some forms of abuse are not as easy to identify as physical abuse. Emotional abuse leaves no visible marks, although its effect on a person's psyche can be just as devastating. Understanding abuse is the first step toward ending an abusive relationship. Enlightening charts, annotated quotes from experts, and real-world examples help young adults identify abuse in relationships with romantic partners, close friends, or family members"--

Animals have alternately been considered pests, food, workers, test subjects, and, as is becoming increasingly common, companions. This begs the question: What rights should animals have? Through engaging text featuring annotated quotes from experts, readers learn about the changing role of animals and the ensuing changing attitudes of people toward how animals should be treated. Detailed charts, engaging sidebars, and relevant statistics provide an in-depth education regarding the history and ramifications, both legal and societal, of animal rights. Readers are also encouraged to think critically to form an opinion on the actions and tactics of different animal rights organizations.