(4) YA World Writers series. "Reading for me was a refuge...It was almost sinful how much I liked it" (Amy Tan). Integrating the subjects' voices, love of literature, chronologies, and major works against a background of world events, these series installments effectively explore how the authors' personal lives influenced their writing. Many photographs, some applicable, some that seem like an afterthought, illustrate the solid narratives. Timeline, websites. Bib., ind. Review covers these World Writers titles: Self-Reliance, C. S. Lewis, and From China to America.

Reviewer: Rebecca Hachmyer

(4) YA Nobel Prize-Winning Scientists series. After a first chapter explaining their subjects' overall scientific contributions, these books relate the events surrounding their Nobel award. Although a bit dry, the writing is generally balanced and fluid, except for the awkward Einstein volume. Black-and-white photos and occasional diagrams illustrate the books, and a few simple experiments are included. Reading list, timeline, websites. Glos., ind. Review covers these Nobel Prize-Winning Scientists titles: James Watson, Albert Einstein, Linus Pauling, and Enrico Fermi.

Reviewer: Frieda F. Bostian

(4) YA Great Minds of Science series. This biography profiles the Austrian-born scientist whose work in nuclear physics led to the creation of the atomic bomb. Although Meitner's opinions about the bomb's eventual use in World War II aren't sufficiently explored, the book remains an adequate introduction to her life and work. Scientific concepts are clearly explained in the succinct text. Black-and-white photos and a timeline are included. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta