(3) YA America's Great Political Families series. This well-written, thoroughly researched series delves into the lives and careers of presidential families, providing in-depth looks at multiple family members. From family histories and drama to political scandals, criticisms, and maneuvers, each subject is explored in a clear, objective, and engaging way. Each volume includes archival photos, a family tree, and appended "fun facts." Reading list, timeline. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers the following America's Great Political Families titles: The Kennedys, The Roosevelts, The Bushes, and The Clintons.

Reviewer: Kristy Pasquariello

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Amy June Bates. This adulatory, earnest picture book celebrates John, Robert, and Edward Kennedy (Joe, killed during WWII, is also introduced). Krull integrates the siblings' powerful words into her text (e.g., "Ask not what your country can do for you...") to create a moving portrait that might resonate more with adults than children. Bates's watercolor, gouache, and pencil illustrations bring the passionate political family to life. Timeline. Bib.

Reviewer: Chelsey Philpot

(4) 4-6 Gateway Biography series. The forty-fourth U.S. president, the longtime Massachusetts senator, and the supermodel-turned-entrepreneur are all given cursory biographical treatments. These books effectively describe the subjects' political or business successes and philanthropic work. However, anything negative is often oversimplified or omitted, especially in Kennedy. Banks includes a glossary and bibliography; Kennedy lists "Fun Facts" and other notable Kennedys. Obama has been updated through 2008. Reading list, timeline, websites. Ind. Review covers these Gateway Biography titles: Barack Obama, Tyra Banks, and Ted Kennedy.

Reviewer: Rachel L. Smith

(4) YA Political Profiles series. These profiles focus on their subjects' childhoods, backgrounds, and the forces that shaped them into today's leaders. Though largely laudatory, both books also touch on foibles and scandals (e.g., Chappaquiddick). Some of the information is already out of date. Obama gives little insight into Michelle's life before Barack. Photographs help break up the texts, which will be useful for basic information. Timeline, websites. Bib., ind. Review covers these Political Profiles titles: Ted Kennedy and Michelle Obama.

Reviewer: Chelsey Philpot