Books in Headlines series

Homelessness is a visible problem in big cities, and a largely invisible one in small towns and rural areas. This issue involves serious consequences for those living on the streets, in tent cities, or in their cars. Homeless people deal with unsanitary conditions, crimes inflicted against them, and an array of mental, emotional, and physical health problems. Homelessness affects young and old, single people and entire families, veterans, and LGBTQ+ individuals, among others. This incisive collection of articles examines the myriad issues faced by communities, activists, governments, and private charities when addressing this vulnerable population. Media literacy questions and terms are included to help readers further analyze news coverage and reporting styles.

Many popular social media websites and apps have one thing in common: celebrities looking to be worshipped. These social influencers come from all walks of life, and cater to young demographics with content including comedy routines, make-up advice, product reviews, and music videos. Watched by millions of viewers worldwide, they create diversion, provide commentary, endorse brands, and sometimes inspire the wrath of governments. With the aid of media literacy terms and questions, readers will discover how this comprehensive collection of articles reveals the ins and outs of internet commerce and culture.

Who really killed JFK? Was 9/11 an inside job? Has anyone seen Obama's birth certificate? Conspiracy theories have been around for years, often surrounding the lives of political figures and national tragedies. In recent years, conspiracy theories have been moving from the fringes to the mainstream, receiving national attention from Alex Jones' Infowars, and President Donald Trump's embrace of far-right conspiracies. The articles in this book trace conspiracy theories from their historical foundations to their modern representations, showing how these ideas can grow until they have a life of their own. Media literacy questions and terms will challenge readers to further analyze reporting styles, devices, and the veracity of sources.

To many Americans, the term big pharma evokes thoughts of greedy organizations that put profits ahead of people's health. It's difficult to put a price tag on drugs that improve or save lives. It's even harder to stomach the thought of being unable to afford medicines when we may need them most. With the price of pills reaching an all-time high, we are looking for justifications and turning to our government for solutions. The articles in this collection provide valuable coverage and insights into the practices of drug manufacturers, the driving forces behind the costs we face today, and what, if anything, can be done to satiate the hunger of big pharma. Media literacy questions and terms will engage readers beyond the text and aid them in considering the many facets of this complicated issue.

Hunting is one of America's oldest pastimes, considered a part of American identity and a way of connecting with the natural world. The practice is also connected to a range of other issues, including wildlife conservation, indigenous rights, animal welfare, and gun violence. This collection of articles showcases the ample contributions of sportsmanship to American life, while also exploring the sometimes destructive role it can play. As attitudes change, amid a reassessment of big game hunting overseas and gun violence at home, an understanding of hunting's unique social role becomes especially important. Media literacy terms and questions invite readers to carefully consider how reporting of the topic has developed over time.

They may make great action movies, but in real life big disasters are simply tragic. From the beginning, the earth has experienced devastating natural disasters that have resonated today. Humankind has introduced disasters of its own, caused by machines and chemicals. Readers will be fascinated to learn of the earthquakes, tornadoes and hurricanes, floods and tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, crashes and sinkings, and oil spills and nuclear accidents that have plagued us from ancient to modern times. Sidebars, a glossary, and books and websites in the further reading section are also included.

Homelessness is a visible problem in big cities, and a largely invisible one in small towns and rural areas. This issue involves serious consequences for those living on the streets, in tent cities, or in their cars. Homeless people deal with unsanitary conditions, crimes inflicted against them, and an array of mental, emotional, and physical health problems. Homelessness affects young and old, single people and entire families, veterans, and LGBTQ+ individuals, among others. This incisive collection of articles examines the myriad issues faced by communities, activists, governments, and private charities when addressing this vulnerable population. Media literacy questions and terms are included to help readers further analyze news coverage and reporting styles.

Hunting is one of America's oldest pastimes, considered a part of American identity and a way of connecting with the natural world. The practice is also connected to a range of other issues, including wildlife conservation, indigenous rights, animal welfare, and gun violence. This collection of articles showcases the ample contributions of sportsmanship to American life, while also exploring the sometimes destructive role it can play. As attitudes change, amid a reassessment of big game hunting overseas and gun violence at home, an understanding of hunting's unique social role becomes especially important. Media literacy terms and questions invite readers to carefully consider how reporting of the topic has developed over time.