Books in Ripped from the Headlines series

Internet sex predators have fast become a growing threat to children and teens online. At social networks and in chat rooms, young people are enticed into relationships that may move into the real world and lead to sexual exploitation, abuse, or worse. Despite the efforts of law enforcement, too many kids continue to be easy and trusting targets. This book examines the tactics of the predators, the real-life experiences of young victims, the stings that catch online predators, and the ways in which people can protect themselves in today's virtual world.

There is no issues that is as controversial today as illegal immigration. Many believe illegal immigrants are criminals who have no right to remain in the United States. Others maintain that the immigrants are just trying to support their families. This book examines the various viewpoints of Americans, the difficulties in coming to America illegally, and weighs the dangers and the economic advantages of illegal immigrants.

In the past few years gas prices have been going up and down with little apparent logic or reason. Gas Crisis explains with interesting anecdotes and simple language how prices are affected by weather, wars, and growing worldwide demand for oil. And it takes an entertaining look at alternative vehicles from battery-powered sports cars to "greasecars" that run on vegetable oil.

Physical changes along with brand-new sexual thoughts and feelings, can be confusing for teens. This book explians the physical, emotional, and social changes that occur during and after puberty. It also addresses the consequences of sexuality. This book helps young people to feel good about themselves and to make appropriate choices about their budding sexuality.

Young people are insatiable consumers of music that can be downloaded over the Internet, but downloading can either be legal or illegal. Peer-to-peer file sharing is the free, fun, often illegal way to download that is used by millions of people every day. Downloading music has created a firestorm of controversy over rampant copyright violations. What are the legal and moral issues involved? And will this change the way we buy and listen to music in the future?

More countries than ever have the most dangerous weapons known to man-nuclear weapons. And, terrorists are working hard to get them. The connection between terrorism and nuclear weapons, the nuclear black market, the emerging threats in North Korea nd Iran, and the efforts nations are taking to protect themselves are discussed in a clear and interesting manner.