This mild nostalgia piece takes on the 1970s, continuing the progression of Paradox Press!s Big Book series. Vankin (Conspiracies Cover-Ups and Crimes; The Big Book of Bad) divides the book into four parts: Freaky Fads, The Players, And That!s the Way It Was, and Entertainment Explosion. Each section is further divided into several subsections, with entries on topics such as kung fu, John Lennon, energy crisis, and Sesame Street. Most entries are a few pages long, giving the reader a flavor for the personality or topic but not a great deal of depth. The artwork is primarily playful but in some instances serious; in each case, the art supports the text nicely. There isn!t enough substance here for serious investigation of the 1970s, for the observational pieces are brief and the insights revealed in these sketches are small. Recommended for large public libraries, and academic libraries where cartooning studies are offered."
Gale Encyclopedia of Genetic Disorders (Two Volume Set)
by Stacey Blachford (Editor)
Readable, well organized, and easy to use, this outstanding encyclopedia signifies a timely and major advance in providing in-depth and comprehensive coverage of medical genetics for the lay reader. The two volumes include nearly 400 substantive entries on genetic diseases and conditions as well as information on basic genetics concepts such as DNA, chromosomes, genetic testing, and pedigree analysis and construction (genetic family history). An advisory board of seven distinguished genetics specialists (clinical geneticists and genetic counselors) oversaw the accuracy of the text, which is authored by an international slate of clinicians, genetic counselors, and medical writers. Each of the alphabetically arranged entries follows a standard format definition, description, genetic profile, demographics, and signs and symptoms designed to answer the questions healthcare consumers actually ask. In addition, entries provide citations for further reading, contact information for support and advocacy organizations, and recommendations for notable web sites. Cross references for subjects without entries are interspersed throughout the work and are easy to follow. The key terms box that appears in select entries and provides succinct and understandable definitions is especially noteworthy. Other special features include a comprehensive glossary, a chromosome map, a guide to symbols for pedigree charts, and an organizations directory all features that should make understanding difficult genetics concepts much easier. The Encyclopedia of Genetic Disorders and Birth Defects (Facts On File, 2000. 2d ed.) has long been the authoritative title for this subject and should remain on the shelf. However, larger consumer health collections and those that frequently receive requests for consumer information on clinical genetics are advised to purchase this as a supplement; it is worth every penny. Highly recommended. Gail Hendler, New York University Sch. of Medicine
Current research has heightened interest in genetics. This new encyclopedia compiled by genetic counselors, physicians, and medical writers explains genetic and congenital disorders in lay language. The 400 alphabetically arranged signed entries cover genetic disorders (Down syndrome, Sickle cell disease ), congenital disorders (Cleft lip and palate, Patent ductus arteriosus ), scientific concepts and research (Chromosome, Human Genome Project), and clinical tests and specialties (Amniocentesis, Genetic counseling). There are also articles about conditions such as prion diseases, which have a genetic component but can be transmitted between unrelated individuals, and Accutane embryopathy, a combination of birth defects that occurs when a pregnant woman takes the drug Accutane.
Encyclopedia of the Essay The
Encyclopedia of the Essay is the first reference work entirely devoted to the essay as a genre. Essays on more than 400 writers from around the world are included, along with geographical surveys that provide an historical framework, entries on types of essays, and entries on important single essays. Entries on closely-related genres such as letters, journals, treatises, sermons and reviews expand and explore the fluid boundaries of the essay as genre.
A Dictionary of Literary Symbols
This is the first dictionary of symbols to be based on literature, rather than "universal" pyschological archetypes, myths or esoterica. Michael Ferber has assembled nearly two hundred main entries clearly explaining and illustrating the literary symbols that we all encounter (such as swan, rose, moon, gold), along with hundreds of cross-references and quotations. The dictionary concentrates on English literature, but its entries range widely from the Bible and classical authors to the twentieth century, taking in American and European literatures. Its informed style and rich references will make this book an essential tool not only for literary and classical scholars, but for all students of literature.
Freud A to Z A lively guide to the life and work of the father of psychoanalysis. From Anna O. to Zionism, this uniquely accessible A-to-Z reference presents a comprehensive overview of Freud's ideas, family, colleagues, patients, writings, and legacy. Mixing humor, passion, and knowledge, each of the more than 100 fascinating entries offers a revealing look at some aspect of Freud's world, be it a description of his famed pillowed office at Berggasse 19 or an account of his intense feud with former student Carl Jung.
Encyclopedia of the Essay 
