One of a series of 'issue' books aimed at Key Stages 1 and 2 children which will also be useful for lesser ability older children. 'Alcohol' explains in some detail the effects drinking too much can have on the body, and the two pictures of the liver, one healthy and one damaged, should be enough to convince children that getting drunk regularly is not a good thing! Responsible drinking is emphasized , along with some interesting history of the use of alcohol in ancient mythologies and religion. We learn about the blood's absorption of alcohol and that different people have different levels of capacity. Alcoholism as a disease is discussed, as is the fact that young people are affected more adversely than adults because the brain isn't fully developed until the age of 20. The law and drink driving is referred to, as are the problems that young people can face through peer pressure. The need for talking to a trusted adult if one is living with or knows someone who is an alcoholic is made clear. Lots of good photos, an index, a glossary, and a 'Find Out More' page add to the information and will be particularly useful for schools. The large, clear print is a bonus.