This series introduces various crimes and law-enforcement tactics. Clearly delineating perpetrators and victims, Vaughan explores the causes and consequences of illegal activity. Advancements in evidence-gathering and prosecution are also discussed. Sidebars highlight specific crimes and laws, and in-depth case studies provide more comprehensive examples for criminal justice fans. Photographs and maps enhance the texts but crowd the pages. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.

Gr 7 Up-These titles examine the diversity of crimes committed around the world. Each lavishly illustrated, oversized volume has a photograph or reproduction on every spread, many times taking up a full page. Numerous fact boxes expand on the topics mentioned in the texts. Black gives an overview of the history and operation of Mafia in the U.S. and profiles organized crime in China, Japan, Russia, and Britain. One chapter is devoted to the criminal activities of biker gangs in the U.S. and in Canada. Grant-Adamson looks at hackers, viruses, and computer crimes that have come to light in the age of the Internet. Innes includes famous cases from Scotland and London along with the Zodiac murders, the Black Dahlia case, and the disappearance of Jimmy Hoffa. The subject matter and presentations will appeal to reluctant readers, and may lead readers to further research.-Lynn Evarts, Sauk Prairie High School, Prairie du Sac, WI Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.