cover image Suicide

Suicide

Dorothy B. Francis. Dutton Books, $13.95 (14pp) ISBN 978-0-525-67279-1

Francis approaches her material pragmatically and with compassion, sorting out ``normal'' outrageous teen behavior from dangerous extremes, examining factors based in biology or environment, looking at attitudes toward suicide through history, assessing controversies in suicide education, or profiling youngsters who have considered or attempted suicide. The author counsels those who wish to help suicidal people, and her advice is often incisive, e.g., ``Never debate whether suicide is right or wrong. This may only serve to make the person feel even more guilty and worthless.'' Resource lists are included. Ages 12-up. (May)