(4) 4-6 History Maker Bios series. Five short chapters give simplified versions of the lives of these generals, from families and early difficulties through military academies, commissions, first assignments, and later accomplishments: Patton's battlefield leadership in WWII, Marshall's conception of a plan to rebuild Europe, and Powell's service as Secretary of State. Photos, sidebars, and cartoons expand the short sentences of the text. Reading list, timeline, websites. Bib., ind. Review includes these History Maker Bios titles: George S. Patton, Jr., Colin Powell, and George C. Marshall.

Reviewer: Frieda F. Bostian

(4) 4-6 History Maker Bios series. These highly accessible biographies feature numerous black-and-white photos and other supporting materials. Short chapters provide straightforward factual information covering key events and the role each subject played in American history. Unfortunately, the amateurish cartoon illustrations mar the otherwise attractive format. Reading list, timeline, websites. Bib., ind. Review covers these History Maker Bios titles: Sitting Bull, Tecumseh, Chief Joseph, Sequoyah, Geronimo, and Quanah Parker.

Reviewer: Cindy Lombardo

(4) 4-6 History Maker Bios series. With soft illustrations on almost every page, the first-ever first lady is presented as a gracious hostess and a selfless helpmate to George. Beyond that, little about her own life and personality is included--the emphasis is on the historic events of the emerging United States. A period portrait of young Martha Custis (Washington), an afterword, and a timeline are included.

Reviewer: Jenn Matters

(3) 4-6 Picture the American Past series. This series examines important events in American history and how they affected children. Illustrated with numerous tinted photos from the past, each volume contains a clear overview of relevant issues. Related activities ("Understanding Historical Photographs," "A Recipe for Make-Do Cake," etc.) are included at the back of each well-designed volume. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Jim St. Claire

(4) 4-6 Picture the American Past series. Short, factual texts and archival duotone photos highlight four groups of children: freed slaves after the Civil War, immigrants at the turn of the century, Dust Bowl victims in the 1930s, and Japanese Americans during World War II. Readers will need additional background knowledge to understand the significance of the historic periods, but these are adequate introductions. Notes to teachers and parents are appended. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Marlene Gawron

(3) 4-6 Trailblazers series. Short, high-interest chapters detail the struggles and accomplishments of this African-American journalist and tireless activist for social justice. Black-and-white photos and engravings trace those who influenced Wells-Barnett's career--family members as well as such friends as Jane Addams, Susan B. Anthony, and Booker T. Washington. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Cindy Lombardo

(3) 4-6 A fast-paced text takes readers through Bourke-White's life, from childhood to her successful and adventurous photography career. Welch describes her subject's strength and courage, which served her well not only on dangerous photography assignments, but also in her twenty-year battle with Parkinson's disease. The book is illustrated with many of Bourke-White's photos. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Kelly A. Ault