Alcohol

Presenting contrasting opinions on a contentious subject, the 'Points of View' series has been generally successful. This latest volume on alcohol is no exception and arguments have been well marshalled by the author.

It is unfortunate that some of the photographs look a little dated, and the index leaves a lot to be desired (16 entries under drinking and 20 under alcohol - and anomalies and omissions); but the main thrust of the book, i.e. the presenting of the arguments, is well executed.

With the pro-alcohol views expressed by the drinks industry and the anti-views by, in the main, the medical profession, it is perhaps unsurprising that the latter case is better argued, particularly as it is more geared to avoiding excess than advocating prohibition.

Wider issues are also included such as the power and influence of the drink industry (argued by both pro and anti lobbies), and the continual search for new markets - as Brian Baldock of Guinness Brewing Worldwide put it in 1989, 'Africa remains an important growth region...'

A useful lucid book for secondary children.