Blohm, Craig E.

"The history of modern Russia is one of failed expectations, starving peasants, brutal terror against political rivals, and nuclear posturing. The collapse of communism left the door open for Russia to enter the twenty-first century as a peaceful nation. Putin's quest to return Russia to its former position in the world may ultimately hinge on the outcome of the Ukraine war"--Provided by publisher.

"In February 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine in anticipation of a quick and complete victory. That did not happen. Instead, Russia's brutal, unprovoked war has run into determined resistance from the Ukrainian government and people. Even so, Russia's war on Ukraine has destroyed huge swaths of the country . . . displaced millions and killed and injured thousands"--Provided by publisher.

"The struggle against racism takes many forms: statues of Confederate heroes have been removed, Confederate-named schools have been renamed, and efforts to help minorities vote have been made. But despite these accomplishments in confronting racism, there is more work to be done. Removing statues and changing names are outward demonstrations of the fight against racism, but in the end, change must begin in the hearts of all Americans"--Provided by publisher.

OCD is a mental illness that affects about one in forty adults and one in one hundred children in the United States. The disorder exhibits two major aspects which give it its name: obsessions, which are recurring unwanted thoughts, urges, or mental images that cause a person anxiety and distress; and compulsions, repetitive behaviors that a person feels compelled to perform. OCD sufferers experience obsessions, compulsions, or both at the same time, and may often suffer from other conditions, such as a state of severe depression.

Discusses the COVID-19 pandemic, search for the vaccine, and subsequent challenges in distributing it.

The earth is heating up: the past decade was the hottest on record, and humans are the major source of this climate change. A warmer climate brings with it a host of problems, from increased natural disasters and animal extinction to poverty and famine in developing countries. Some experts say it is already too late to stop climate change, but others are confident that immediate action can save the planet.

The oceans cover 71 percent of the earth and are essential for plant and animal life to survive. More than 3 billion people around the world make their living from the oceans. But pollution from plastic, oil, and sewage is threatening to destroy the marine biosphere. Ocean pollution is widespread and difficult to clean, but new technologies and dedicated people are giving the oceans new life.

Business is a broad category that spans many fields including retail, finance, health care, manufacturing, education, and technology--and in all cases, businesses rely on people with diverse skills and personalities working together to accomplish a company's goals. Comments from people in the industry, current statistics and forecasts, and realistic descriptions provide a useful look at business jobs ranging from market research analysts to accountants to franchise owners.

"The RMS Titanic was the most magnificent ship to ever set sail. When it began its maiden voyage in April 1912, its passengers and crew could not have known or even imagined their sad fate. The sinking of the Titanic was one of the greatest maritime tragedies in history, a story that continues to fascinate people today"--Provided by the publisher.

Discusses what today's animation artists are doing, how they attract a following, and what they are saying through their artwork.