(3) K-3 Illustrated by Matt Collins. This picture book biography presents the life of revered Texan Sam Houston, from his early life to his governorship of Tennessee and involvement in Texas independence. Houston's later political career as president of the Republic of Texas, United States senator, and then governor of the state is briefly recounted. Collins's colorful, realistic illustrations mirror the simplicity of the informative text. Timeline, websites. Bib.

Reviewer: Luther B. Clegg

(4) 4-6 Courageous Heroes of the American West series. All originally published under different titles, the updated editions of these brief biographies, written in short, easy-to-read sentences, outline the lives of adventurous individuals who helped shape the American West during the nineteenth century. Black-and-white photographs and drawings add some interest to the text-heavy pages; the lurid cover illustrations are unappealing. There are four other fall 2012 books in this series. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind. Review covers these Courageous Heroes of the American West titles: Bill Pickett, Buffalo Bill Cody, Calamity Jane, Daniel Boone, Davy Crockett, Richard King, Sacagawea, and Sam Houston.

Reviewer: The Horn Book, Inc.

(4) YA Military Heroes series. Filled with photographs and archival illustrations, this series presents a range of famous and lesser-known people involved in U.S. military history. In addition to standard biographical details, the texts also examine controversies and career flops as well as successes; sidebars provide historical context. Though the writing is on the bland side, the texts are useful for reports. Reading list, timeline. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers these Military Heroes titles: Samuel Houston, Benjamin O. Davis Jr., George S. Patton, Clara Barton, John McCain, and Colin Powell.

Reviewer: Cyrisse Jaffee

(4) YA Notable Americans series. Barraging readers with names, dates, places, and events, this portrait of the military and political leader includes discussion of his personal and professional disappointments. The rushed text covers Houston's relationship with the Cherokee Nation and his divided loyalties between Andrew Jackson and Cherokee Chief Jolly. Black-and-white illustrations are included. Timeline, websites. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Christina Dorr