(4) 4-6 Latinos in American History series. This biography of the eleven-time president of Mexico most famous for storming the Alamo and for his role in the Mexican-American War takes a while to get going. For much-needed comic relief, Bankston notes Santa Anna's emulation of Napoleon's hairstyle and other humorous tidbits. The book features color portraits of Santa Anna, often in action, and key players in his life. Reading list, timeline, websites. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(3) 4-6 Latinos in American History series. This biography of Mexican explorer Anza, who helped develop a land route between Mexico and California and became governor of New Mexico, is dramatic in the telling. Bankston supplies hypothetical impressions ("As a youngster, Juan must have heard countless stories...") for added dimension. A map and color reproductions appear throughout. Reading list, timeline, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(4) 4-6 Latinos in American History series. In Paredes, which profiles the Mexican-American poet, writer, and folklorist, Murcia takes the time to illuminate her subject's character through humorous anecdotes; in contrast, Chavez seems cursory and incomplete--unaccountably, considering its subject was hardly an elusive figure. These two biographies feature photos framed with gaudy colors. Reading list, timeline, websites. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers these Latinos in American History titles: Americo Paredes and Cesar Chavez.

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(4) 4-6 Latinos in American History series. In Paredes, which profiles the Mexican-American poet, writer, and folklorist, Murcia takes the time to illuminate her subject's character through humorous anecdotes; in contrast, Chavez seems cursory and incomplete--unaccountably, considering its subject was hardly an elusive figure. These two biographies feature photos framed with gaudy colors. Reading list, timeline, websites. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers these Latinos in American History titles: Americo Paredes and Cesar Chavez.

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(4) 4-6 Latinos in American History series. Whiting describes the life of the eighteenth-century Majorca-born priest, known as the "Father of California," who went first to Mexico and then to California to establish missions. Lack of any critical debate about Serra's work (converting others to Christianity) may disappoint some readers. The book features color portraits of Serra and photos of statues bearing his likeness. Reading list, timeline, websites. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Nell Beram