This reference aims to be accessible to high school students and up, legislators considering bills, patients facing terminal illness, and general readers. In addition to discussing the complexities surrounding end-of-life issues, the book contains factual information such as a chronology of key events in the history of euthanasia. The issue is divided into three subtopics: medical-bioethical, spiritual-social-cultural, and legal-political. This hierarchy of subtopics is used throughout the book. An introduction on the background and history of euthanasia in the US is followed by chapters on problems and controversies, the worldwide perspective, biographical sketches of key figures, and data and documents. A directory of US and overseas organizations includes contacts and descriptions of programs and services. A chapter on resources lists and describes print and nonprint resources, periodicals, databases, and Web sites. A glossary is also included. McDougall is a freelance writer with experience in local government and nonprofit organizations. Gorman is a writer and activist. Annotation ©2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)