Lynda Madaras Talks to Teens about AIDS: An Essential Guide for Parents, Teachers, and Young People

The author of the What's Happening to My Body? addresses one of the most important issues of this decadethe spread of AIDS. As in her other books, Madaras's tone is chatty and chummy, her chapters crammed with up-to-date information. Rumors are tested against facts, origins explored, symptoms and risk factors elucidated, etc., but best of all is the point of view: she counsels readers to think in terms of risky behavior , not risk groups, and suggests sexual alternatives to intercourse. She is decidedly practical in her approach, reminding teens to take the long view when considering having sex (``Ask yourself if you honestly think the two of you will be together a year from now'') and gives lines and techniques for avoiding peer pressure about sex and drugs. Each new AIDS book for teens offers updated information; Madaras includes the average time for symptom development (eight years), an admonishment not to share pierced earrings, a discussion of how a few health workers contracted the disease, among other topics. While stressing abstinence, this compellingly honest and mature book nonetheless offers teens as much help with sexual activity as possible (e.g., illustrations of how to put on a condom and discussion of how it can be incorporated into lovemaking). Kudos to Madaras for this finely attuned volume. Ages 12-up. (Oct . )