RALPH NADER

Our best-known consumer advocate gets his full due in a well-written biography. Beginning with the major exposÇ of auto defects that launched Nader's career, Celsi provides not only the facts but background information that shows how Nader, almost single-handedly, galvanized public opinion to oppose some of the worst abuses of consumers. She also fairly presents those who oppose him, including former associates stung by his criticism and exhausted by his hardworking style. Particularly interesting are her discussion of how consumer activism (of which Nader created the model) fits into capitalist society, and her presentation of some of the surprising people who support it- -including scions of some old conservative families. A model of good biography for this age group. Well-chosen b&w photos; notes; bibliography on consumer issues; index. (Biography. 12-18)