(4) YA Presidential Leaders series. The books in this series briefly chronicle the lives and achievements of five former presidents. Each volume attempts to portray the subject and the events surrounding his presidency honestly and openly, but the broad overview allows for little depth. Well-captioned photos enhance a bland design. Reading list, source notes, timeline, websites. Bib., ind. [Review covers these Presidential Leaders titles: Woodrow Wilson, Harry S. Truman, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard M. Nixon, and Franklin D. Roosevelt.]

Reviewer: Luther B. Clegg

(4) YA A & E Biography series. Though centuries may separate the subjects of the volumes in this series, all have played prominent political or cultural roles. Their life stories are relayed in sometimes rushed prose, but these books will make acceptable starting points for those seeking basic biographical information. The texts are accompanied by average-quality photos and historical reproductions in black and white and in color. Bib., ind. [Review covers these titles: William Shakespeare, Queen Elizabeth I, Oprah Winfrey, George W. Bush, The Beatles, Benjamin Franklin.]

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(4) YA Lerner Biographies series. This biography recounts Indira Gandhi's life and accomplishments, from her birth in a prestigious Brahmin family to her service as prime minister of India, with schooling, marriage, and motherhood in the background of a life spent in public view. Considerable material is incorporated in a fairly pedestrian style, and well-documented black-and-white photographs illustrate the text. A time line and information about religions in India are appended. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Frieda F. Bostian

(3) YA A well-written biography provides a chronological overview of a remarkable poet's surprisingly ordinary life. Complementing the emphasis on events that influenced Dickinson's development as a writer, the inclusion of many poems and letters gives readers a sense of her unusual style. Black-and-white photographs of Dickinson and her home, family, and friends enhance the text. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Carolyn Shute