Alcohol abuse is a major problem throughout the world. It can cause depression and other mental health issues, physical illnesses, and even death in those who abuse it. In the U.S. approximately 140,000 people die each year from excessive alcohol use, but sensible use of alcohol provides some health benefits. The potential negatives and positives of alcohol use can be confusing for young people. Alcohol is one of ten titles in the Young Adult Drug Library series. Nine titles spotlight a major drug or type of drug (such as painkillers); discuss the negative physical and mental effects of the addiction on the addict and the potential benefits of their use (for certain legal drugs); and provide an overview of treatment strategies for the addiction. The last title, Facts & Figures, provides readers with the "big picture" regarding drugs, including their pros and cons; how they are made, distributed, sold, and used; why they are abused or misused; and treatment options for those who become addicted. Stories of those who are battling drug addiction are also featured in the series in order to humanize these issues.