(3) YA These biographies focus on pioneering scientists in the fields of early chemistry (Boyle), the discovery of radioactive elements (Curie), and understanding of DNA (Franklin). The books are enhanced by careful documentation, understanding of their subjects' work, and balanced presentations of personal lives, along with historical context. Photographs, some maps and diagrams, and historical drawings and documents illustrate the sophisticated texts. Timeline, websites. Bib., ind. Review covers these titles: Skeptical Chemist: The Story of Robert Boyle, Rosalind Franklin and the Structure of Life, and New Elements: The Story of Marie Curie.

Reviewer: Frieda F. Bostian

(4) K-3 Gateway Green Biography series. This short, laudatory biography, illustrated with color and black-and-white photos of varying quality, depicts a quietly determined life dedicated to the preservation of America's natural lands and wildlife. The blandly written text discusses Leopold's childhood, career, family life, and legacy. A chronology and list of resources are appended. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Paula M. Cairo

(3) YA African-American Biographies series. Well-rounded, clearly written biographies explore the lives of the groundbreaking singer, inspiring writer, and successful entrepreneur. The books address personal setbacks and the roadblocks these individuals encountered due to racism, but the emphasis is on their triumphs and the legacy that each provided. Average-quality black-and-white photographs illustrate the texts. Time lines are included. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(4) 4-6 People to Know series. With the exception of Hemingway, the subjects of these books have rarely been showcased in juvenile biographies, despite being individuals young people may know and find interesting. Although sometimes superficial, the adequately written volumes emphasize the talent, ambition, and work ethic that made the subjects win laurels and legions of fans. Illustrated with adequate black-and-white photographs, each book includes a chronology. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(3) 4-6 Countdown to Space series. The seven astronauts profiled in these easy-to-read volumes all had pioneering roles in the space program, including the first African-American man and woman in space and the first person to walk on the moon. Although brief, the books provide sufficient biographical coverage as well as clear historical information. Black-and-white and color photos add interest. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: The Horn Book, Inc.