(4) YA Modern Music Masters series. These biographies exemplify the diversity and genius of recent American music icons. Brown's compelling story is set in the context of 1960s civil rights struggles and the Vietnam War, while Bernstein's chronicles the development of his whole-body conducting style and rise to international fame amid equally illustrious influences. The books' design, which includes many black-and-white photos, is drab. Timeline, websites. Bib., ind. Review covers these Modern Music Masters titles: Proud and Leonard Berstein and American Music.

Reviewer: Paula M. Cairo

(4) YA Modern Music Masters series. These biographies exemplify the diversity and genius of recent American music icons. Brown's compelling story is set in the context of 1960s civil rights struggles and the Vietnam War, while Bernstein's chronicles the development of his whole-body conducting style and rise to international fame amid equally illustrious influences. The books' design, which includes many black-and-white photos, is drab. Timeline, websites. Bib., ind. Review covers these Modern Music Masters titles: Proud and Leonard Berstein and American Music.

Reviewer: Paula M. Cairo

(3) YA Modern Music Masters series. This thoroughly researched biography presents the "King of Pop" as a complicated, talented, emotionally damaged, eccentric, and driven person, surrounded by people who both loved and manipulated him. The narrative begins with his childhood, including his difficult, at time abusive stage father, and ends with his 2009 televised memorial service. Attractive color photos and numerous quotes give the volume a nice polish. Timeline, websites. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Marika Jeffrey

(3) YA Modern Music Masters series. This biography tells of the internationally famous Jamaican-born singer, poet, musician, and pioneer of reggae music. The writing effectively depicts the social and historical climate in which Marley was raised: the stigma of his parents' interracial marriage, struggles with dishonorable producers and managers, political and religious beliefs, and mentors. Many quotes and photographs further show Marley's personality. Timeline, websites. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Henrietta M. Smith

(3) YA Modern Music Masters series. Brimming with well-documented information, this biography traces the composer's life, from his Russian birth as Israel Beilin in 1888 to his death at age 101. The book highlights Berlin's contributions to American music, from Tin Pan Alley to Broadway, films, and individual hits. Black-and-white photos illustrate the text. A timeline and list of major songs are appended. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Frieda F. Bostian