This collection of perspective essays explores a variety of controversial topics, specifically current events and issues such as free speech, school violence, green energy, substance abuse, abortion, gun control, immigration, and more. A general introduction contextualizes the book in contemporary American discourse and shows why the essays that follow are important. Each chapter provides readers with a selection of persuasive and expository essays that they can cite in papers. Each chapter also has individual introductions, explaining how and why the essays were collected together and curated. Readers of this volume will come away with an understanding of the key points of a variety of important perspectives. In a time when the country is so thoroughly polarized, it is vital to give voice to stakeholders on both sides of the proverbial aisle. This book will be a solid resource for libraries, as readers can explore one or more topics in one easy-to-understand volume.