(4) K-3 Illustrated by Ed Young. While based on cited research, this biography doesn't quite bring to life Chaplin's groundbreaking artistry. The free-verse text, rhyming occasionally and erratically, unpredictably switches from silent film cards to text blocks within illustrations.Young's collage and ink art, which is full of texture, color, and pattern, doesn't capture facial and body expression--a strange choice for a book about a celebrated visual communicator. Reading list.

Reviewer: Amy Seto Forrester

(3) 4-6 This volume examines the life of Charlie Chaplin, a sad boy who grew up to become the world's greatest comedian. Fleischman's humorous wordplay ("Noise and chaos were Keystone's proof that the studio was putting its best footage forward") makes the energetic narrative come alive. Some archival photographs (more would have been welcome, given the visual nature of Chaplin's talent) accompany the text. Timeline. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Betty Carter

(3) YA This clearly written biography traces Chaplin's life from his destitute childhood in London, through the success of his American-made movies The Gold Rush and Modern Times, to his eventual exile in Europe. The descriptions of the entertainer's motion pictures and characterization is particularly insightful. The text is illustrated with black-and-white photos and film stills, and a filmography is included. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta