After an explanation of what cultural competence is and why it's important, this text helps students assess their cultural attitudes and become aware of their own biases. Separate chapters are then presented on six cultures: Native American, Asian and Pacific, African-American and African, Latino, white of European ancestry, and Middle Eastern. Each of these chapters begins with a brief profile and b&w photo of a real-life healthcare professional, then gives information on communication styles, food practices, and spiritual practices, as well as beliefs about illness, preventive health practices, home remedies, and complementary and alternative medicine. There is also information on cultural expectations for professional dress codes, acceptable interactions between men and women, and culture-bound syndromes. An appendix describes various illnesses and physical, mental, and emotional conditions and gives notes on ethnic populations most affected by them, from alcoholism to zar (spirit possession). Learning features include chapter objectives, summaries, discussion questions, and activities. Cartwright is athletic director at Pioneer High School in Michigan. Shingles directs the Department of Physical Education and Sport at Central Michigan University. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)