Books in the Ethical Debates series present balanced overviews of the subjects discussed and consider different points of view on the controversial issues raised. The general discussions are bolstered by specific instances and boxed pairs of quotes representing two sides of each issue. While the page design and the clear color photos make the content look accessible to a broad range of readers, the actual reading level is more consistent with high-school use than with the publisher's middle-grade recommendation. Same-Sex Marriage considers the positions of those who support and those who oppose these unions. The series apparently originates in the UK: the short "Further Reading" list includes one British book that is not available in the U.S. On balance, though, the series' international content is an asset, offering a broader view of how governments and societies worldwide are grappling with the issues under discussion.

SPILSBURY, Louise . Same-Sex Marriage . ISBN 978-1-4488-6020-3 ; ISBN 978-1-4488-7013-4 ; ISBN 978-1-4488-6066-1 . LC 2011032847. STEARMAN, Kaye . Freedom of Information . ISBN 978-1-4488-6019-7 ; ISBN 978-1-4488-7008-0 ; ISBN 978-1-4488-6064-7 . LC 2011034070. ea vol: 48p. (Ethical Debates Series). photos. chron. further reading. glossary. index. websites. CIP. Rosen Central . 2012. PLB $27.95; pap. $11.75; ebook $27.95. Gr 6-9 The authors address these topics fairly and impartially, with substantial support for both sides of the arguments. Written clearly and concisely, each accessible title begins with a case study highlighting the issues involved before explaining them. Privacy describes the uses of surveillance in our lives and discusses where it can be found, including our homes, schools, workplaces, and computers. In Same-Sex Marriage , sexual orientation is explained, as well as marriage and its accompanying rights, legal issues, children, and societal effects. Freedom of Information looks at the rights of citizens to access information from the government and legislation that addresses them, utilizing accessible information, those who expose wrongdoing, and the future direction for this freedom. Short chapters, copious photos representative of the events and situations relevant to the facts provided, fact boxes, viewpoints containing quoted opinions, supporting case studies, and succinct chapter summaries all contribute to the overall appeal and usefulness of these books, although a few of the photos are dark and not as sharp and clear as they could be. Susan Shaver, Hemingford Public Schools, NE