(3) 4-6 Hong's illustrated memoir of his youth makes the deprivations of the Cultural Revolution starkly apparent even as it limns a childhood that was universal in many ways. Panel illustrations are rendered with bold, expressive lines. Touches of red in an otherwise somber palette provide energy and dramatic reinforcement of the period's politics, as well as counterpointing the text's matter-of-fact tone.

Reviewer: Carolyn Shute

(3) YA World Leaders series. This well-written biography gives an accessible overview of Chinese history in addition to detailed information about the life of Mao Zedong, focusing on his influences and lasting legacy. The well-captioned photographs, maps, and sidebars (e.g., "Quotes from Mao's 'Little Red Book'") add interest. Timeline, websites. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Elissa Gershowitz

(4) YA Dictatorships series. These books about two Asian dictators first present histories of their countries before exploring the men's own backgrounds and regimes in greater depth. The texts are dense; strong graphic design with a bold, contemporary look including well-placed sidebars and photographs makes these books visually appealing and accessible. Thorough backmatter includes a "Who's Who?" Reading list, timeline, websites. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers these Dictatorships titles: Kim Jong Il's North Korea and Mao Zedong's China.

Reviewer: Amy Lois Cohn

(3) 4-6 National Geographic World History Biographies series. These books outline the lives of famous figures, from their early years to their deaths; their lasting impacts are also discussed. An emphasis on placing the biographies into the context of world history at the time is done well. Each double-page spread includes a running timeline. Maps, archival photographs, sidebars, and quotes add interest. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers these National Geographic World History Biographies titles: Julius Caesar, Mao Zedong, Anne Frank, and Mozart.

Reviewer: Lauren Aimonette LIang

(4) 4-6 In World History series. This is a competent biography of Mao and the Chinese Revolution, focusing not just on his tyranny but also on his success with education and medical reforms. Black-and-white photographs and excerpts from Mao's poetry and speeches help to break up the text, which occasionally lacks transitions between paragraphs. Reading list, timeline, websites. Ind.

Reviewer: Jeannine M. Chapman