short takes

摘要

In this new two-volume entry in the "Defining Documents in World History" series, editor Shally-Jensen (Careers in Human Services) compiles 60 primary source documents about disease and public health, from antiquity (Thucydides's account of "the Plague of Athens"), to the present (an interview with the director of the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities on the impact of COVID-19 on people from marginalized communities). Other source documents here are book excerpts, legal documents, or speeches. Each source document is framed by an overview, author notes, essential themes, an essay by a subject expert, and further reading. VERDICT In addition to examining epidemics throughout history, readers can explore documents relating to child labor, vaccine safety, or alcohol, tobacco, and prescription drugs. Likely to see most use in academic settings, with some appeal in public libraries, given that COVID-19 is a major concern for many. It can be challenging to find Black comics characters and creators. Artist and entrepreneur Fragiskatos noticed this void and recruited Joseph Illidge (executive editor, Heavy Metal) and artist and writer George Carmona Ⅲ to compile a sourcebook highlighting Black heroes and voices in comics. The guide features stories that star Black protagonists (Tuskegee Heirs; Diary of a Mad, Black Werewolf), along with occasional other characters of color, and whose animators, artists, publishers, or promoters are BIPOC. The volume is divided into sections on comics, publishers, stores, and conventions; entries include a brief summary, black-and-white illustrations (cover image, artist headshot), and, where relevant, contact information. VERDICT Of interest to newbies or seasoned comics readers looking to support local stores or find publishers with BIPOC team members.