Reviews

This series by prolific author Sally Morgan has been revised and updated to highlight the latest developments and theories in science that are popularized in the press, and that are often considered to be controversial. Each book focuses on how science works, giving recent applications and examples. Each book also includes an explanation of a controversy, along with data and evidence as well as an analysis of the issues and opinions involved, and features a written conclusion by the author. Rebuilding the Body: Organ Transplantation begins with a survey of the major human body organs, with many illustrations of structure and function. This is followed by a description of the failure of major organs, infections that occur within them, and gradual damage and deterioration. This leads to a discussion about organ transplants and the history of this branch of medicine. The challenges of organ transplantation, pitfalls of rejection, and ethics of transplantation from the dead are all touched upon. There is a lot of information about coping with organ rejection and the human immune system. How to become an organ donor is included, along with the dilemma of deciding when death occurs; the issues surrounding using organs from the recently deceased is also featured. The issue of using organs from another species is included, and the book ends with a description of stem cell research and the controversy surrounding the use of embryonic stem cells. Each volume also includes a very understandable timeline, a glossary, a catalog of further resources, and an index. These features make the books useful as interdisciplinary resources, and can lead to learning extensions such as wikis, or web quests. The reading level is appropriate to the content and the style of writing makes each book interesting to read. The series would be an excellent addition to a science or social studies classroom. The books are a good jumping off point for classroom discussion, reports, or research by teachers and students. Recommended--Eloise Farmer NSTANovember 2009-- "NSTA"