Whelelan (anthropology, State U. of New York, Potsdam) takes a novel approach to HIV/AIDS instruction by aiming this textbook at liberal arts students who need to explore anthropological, social, political and psychological data. The author provides a thorough historical overview of the epidemic before concentrating on the effects of AIDS on drug use, women, economics, sexuality, caregivers and survivors. A concluding chapter provides an overview of the pandemic in the 21st century and includes successful intervention efforts, anthropological strategies and a comparison between the United States and non-industrialized countries in treatment protocols. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)