Farnatchi in the Land of Illusions.

Illegal drugs pose a significant threat to young people. Ways in which children between the ages of 8 and 13 can be warned about the dangers of drug use is presented in this book. It is a health education text containing precise information presented in a simple way. The book's fictional characters are vividly portrayed through colorful pictures and straightforward dialogue. The text's message encourages the child to avoid taking drugs by pointing out the dangers accompanying drug use, but its main purpose is to help children avoid all kinds of addiction. The text uses a fictional character, a young Arab student, who is enticed into using drugs. The story follows him as he imagines becoming addicted, and as he wrestles with tough decisions and difficult situations. Explicit information on how drugs affect the brain, the danger of addiction, the consequences of drug use, and other issues surrounding addiction are discussed. Family and peer influences are explored and positive ways in which children can focus their energies are presented. The text features vibrant pictures which emphasize the sensations and dangers of drug use. All text, including title and prefactory material, is provided in three languages: Arabic, French, and English. (RJM)