(3) K-3 Illustrated by David C. Gardner. This warm picture-book biography chronicles the steps young Benjamin Banneker, a free-born African American farmer, took to invent the striking clock in 1753. Inspired by a pocket watch, Banneker meticulously studied, drew diagrams, and carved the parts for his clock using a pocketknife. Gardner's watercolor illustrations gorgeously evoke the passing seasons on Banneker's farm. An inspiring accompaniment for STEAM programming.

Reviewer: Kristy Pasquariello

(4) 4-6 Great Minds of Science series. Featuring innovative scientists, several from underrepresented groups, these biographies discuss childhood interests, study, diligence, and professional achievements, from tobacco farmer Banneker's almanac to Earle's underwater research and publications. Some effective primary material linked to online resources is included; frequent integrative questions and prompts may distract general researchers. Many photos and diagrams illustrate the text, though the pale-yellow-type captions aren't optimal. Reading list. Glos., ind. Review covers these Great Minds of Science titles: Charles Drew, George Washington Carver, Sylvia Earle, Jane Goodall, Charles Darwin, and Benjamin Banneker.

Reviewer: Frieda F. Bostian

(4) K-3 On My Own Biography series. Illustrated by Craig Orback. Considering vocabulary and sentence limitations, these authors adequately present the lives of their subjects: Banneker pioneered as a black farmer, surveyor, and almanac writer; Coleman as a black woman pilot; and Nightingale as a wealthy Englishwoman who founded a nursing school and corps. The biographies' illustrations are colorful if somewhat static. Afterword, timeline. [Review covers these On My Own Biography titles: Benjamin Banneker, Bessie Coleman, and Florence Nightingale.]

Reviewer: Frieda F. Bostian

(4) 4-6 Gateway Biography series. Illustrated with archival photos and drawings, this serviceable, somewhat dull biography recounts the life of "America's first black man of science." Banneker's family history, childhood, and schooling, both formal and self-taught, are discussed, as well as his late-in-life accomplishments of helping to survey the site for the new federal capital and becoming the first African-American man to be published. A time line is included. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Emma Loy-Santelli

(3) YA African-American Biographies series. Four clearly written biographies cover major figures--two historical, two contemporary--who, despite some early difficulties, achieved major personal and professional success. Winfrey, Du Bois, and Banneker have been featured in numerous biographies, but this full-length work on Myers, which includes discussions of his books and how they came to be written, is particularly welcome. Black-and-white photos accompany the texts. Time lines are included. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(4) 4-6 These adequately written biographies of five African Americans influential in science, the military, the abolitionist movement, and women's and civil rights causes convey each subject's drive and courage in pursuit of their goals. The accessibly designed books are illustrated with archival reproductions and sepia-toned photographs. A time line is included in each volume. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Barbara Barstow

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Chris K. Soentpiet. This fictionalized biography traces Molly Bannaky's life from indentured servant to Maryland land owner--including her marriage to the African slave she bought and freed. The story ends somewhat abruptly with a brief mention that Molly's grandson was Benjamin Banneker; an author's note, however, provides information on the African-American inventor. Dramatic full-page illustrations will draw readers in.

Reviewer: Henrietta M. Smith