(4) YA Headline Court Cases series. Sacco and Vanzetti presents a focused examination of the 1920s trial, including historical background, summaries of the prosecution and defense cases, and the aftermath that ultimately led to a 1977 proclamation of wrongful execution. Witchcraft Trials follows a similar format but is broader in focus. Illustrated with black-and-white photos and historical reproductions, these overviews are informative, though the writing is generally flat. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(4) 4-6 Science of the Past series. Each book offers a straightforward introduction to some of the scientific and technical accomplishments of these cultures. Among the areas discussed are medicine, mathematics, astronomy, natural history, and physics. Science is defined broadly and includes mention of such peripheral applications as the Mayan use of decorative jade and gold dental fillings and the Indian practice of yoga. Color photos and reproductions illustrate the texts. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Elizabeth Howard

(4) YA Hot Pro/Con Issues series. Illustrated with color photographs (including some of animals in distress), the choppy text presents a historical overview of the subject, provides examples of specific tests and procedures performed on animals, and mentions some alternatives to using animals in laboratories. The final two chapters argue both sides of the controversial issue, but neither side of the debate is forcefully presented. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(4) 4-6 Science of the Past series. Covering such subjects as Egyptian pyramids, Roman aqueducts, Arabic astronomy, and Chinese cosmology, these books present many achievements of these ancient cultures in somewhat of a random fashion, without much depth given to any particular topic. Nevertheless, the various inventions, theories, technologies, and other accomplishments give a sense of the sophistication of past cultures. Illustrated with color photos and reproductions. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: The Horn Book, Inc.