The Breakup of the Soviet Union [Opposing Viewpoints Series]

A collection of articles debating issues related to the collapse of the former Soviet Union, the future of the region, and America's foreign policy there.

Gr. 10-12. Another excellent volume in the Opposing Viewpoints series. The questions asked are important: Why did the Soviet Union collapse? How will the breakup affect the world? What would reduce ethnic conflict in the republics? Commentaries from legitimate experts are kept short and to the point and complemented by maps, charts, political cartoons, and inset text when necessary or appropriate. The series' familiar format is followed, with chapter prefaces setting up issues as well as questions to help focus readers and to serve as starting points for further discussion. Unfortunately, many of the magazines cited in the bibliographies of periodicals may not be readily accessible to all teens. The fact that the reading level may be above that of many young adults should not deter teachers and librarians from consideration of this thoughtful, intelligent presentation of an important and complex political event. It will be a valuable tool for helping students to understand the issues and for encouraging discussion in a history, political science, or current events curriculum. Jeanne Triner