The book was compiled as a contribution to lifesaving programs for African and American people; The focus of each photographer is on innovative portraiture; the results are often breathtaking. Annie Leibovitz displays her usual virtuositythe most memorable picture being Whoopie Goldberg lying in a bathtub of milk, arms and legs waving in the air. Robert Mapplethorpe and Matthew Rolston use black and white to focus the viewer's eye on texture, movement, and expression. David Bailey's photographs were all taken backstage at the London Live Aid concert. Sheila Metzner's photographs are gorgeous, flowerlike compositions. Andy Warhol contributed some of the Sure Shot originals upon which his portraits are based. Snowden literally paints with his camera. Herb Ritts' use of light and shadow takes one's breath away. Greg Gorman captures with great artistry the ``moxie'' of his subjects. Visual Aid, like Life magazine , should capture viewers' imagination, and it will be endlessly perused by the star-struck of all ages.