Health Issues: Heroin - Softcover

Elliot-Wright, Susan

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0750244887 ISBN 13: 9780750244886

Publisher: Hodder Children's Books

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Heroin is one of the most dangerous drugs in society today. This book looks at the history of heroin, what it consists of, and why people use it. The misery heroin addiction brings to individuals and their families is clearly outlined, with a look at crime, illness, and all the other possible consequences. Methods of helping addicts are examined, including methadone, needle exchange schemes and education. With photos, case studies, glossary, resource section and index.

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About the Author

Susan Elliot-Wright is a freelance writer specializing in health. After gaining a degree in English, she taught in adult education before training as a journalist.

From School Library Journal

Grade 8-10–Accessible books that adequately cover the history, the physical and mental effects, and the impact on society of illegal drugs. All three titles have sidebars, quotations, and diagrams to aid in understanding, as well as color photographs, some graphic, of users. They will be of interest to report writers and general readers and appeal to reluctant readers. Elliot-Wright clearly addresses the seriousness of an addiction to heroin. Social impacts such as neglected children, crime and prostitution, smuggling, and gangs are discussed. Prevention and treatment are examined in a straightforward manner. Ben Sonder's All about Heroin (Watts, 2002) is a more thoughtful and detailed treatment and lists more resources. Both Todd Howard's Heroin (Gale, 2002) and Carmen Ferreiro's Heroin (Chelsea House, 2003) offer more information. Cocaine examines how an addiction develops and the different forms of this drug. Sean Connolly's Cocaine (Heinemann Library, 2000) is not as well written but covers similar material for the same audience, as does Elaine Landau's Cocaine (Scholastic, 2003). James Barter's Cocaine and Crack (Gale, 2002) is more detailed. Marijuana describes the drug's negative effects and risks as well as its medical uses. Arguments for and against legalization are presented. Similar material for this audience is available in Sean Connolly's Marijuana (Heinemann Library, 2002) and Mary E. Williams's Marijuana (Gale, 2003). Randi Mehling's Marijuana (Chelsea House, 2003) is more detailed.–Debbie Stewart Hoskins, Grand Rapids Public Library, MI