Hal Marcovitz

When synthetic opioids were developed a quarter-century ago, many physicians believed the drugs would help alleviate the pain caused by severe injuries and debilitating diseases. But while the drugs do deaden pain, they can lead to devastating addiction as well as death through overdose. Meanwhile, the natural opioid heroin continues to be a much-abused illegal drug that threatens the lives of its users.

Explores the history of organ transplantation, discussing donation, the art of performing transplants, issues with confidentiality, the ethics of selling organs, and new technologies that are creating alternatives.

A biography of the Italian traveler who became the first European to cross Asia completely and document his experiences.

Presents the history of Ellis Island from 1892 when it served as the most important center for immigration into the United States, to its near collapse in the 1970s due to neglect, to its rebirth in 1990 as the Ellis Island Immigration Museum.

The history of the White House, including the story of its construction, interesting and important facts and statistics, and its importance as an American symbol.

Uses data from the Gallup Youth Survey and other sources to examine the issue of teen family relationships in today's world.