American sociologist and antiwar activist Joel Andreas, 46, is the author of "Addicted to War: Why the U.S. Can't Kick Militarism."

Though "Addicted to War" is in the form of a comic book, it is far from being caricatured, comic-book fare. Thoroughly researched, it carefully portrays how the United States has involved itself in military actions both at home and abroad throughout its history. A mother and son lead readers through the chronological account that not only describes what happened, but also highlights the benefits (to whom) and costs -- both financial and human -- of U.S. militarism. Finally, readers are asked to consider what they can do to change the situation.

Since a revised edition came out in April 2002, a decade after its original publication, the book has won support from antiwar activists and concerned school teachers, and has sold more than 80,000 copies in the United States.