Homosexuality has emerged as a major issue making headlines across the country, including initiatives, which have been put on state and local ballots, that limit or guarantee the civil rights of gays and lesbians. This book, designed as a guide for juveniles, separates fact from fiction about gays and lesbians and explains homosexuality in clear, readable terms. It traces the history of social attitudes toward gays and lesbians and explores current thinking on the causes of homosexuality. It also examines some specific problems, including those faced by homosexual teens and their parents and the challenge that AIDS has created for the gay community. The book explains that gays and lesbians are people in all walks of life, few of whom fit the usual stereotypes. Contains an index. (GLR)