(4) YA People to Know series. Well-known Americans who have achieved success in government, the arts, and popular culture are the subjects of these clearly written biographies. The emphasis is on public success and career growth, never going much deeper to acknowledge idiosyncrasies or personal flaws. Still, the books will be sufficient for those seeking basic biographical information. Illustrated with average-quality black-and-white photos. Time lines are included. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(4) K-3 Gateway Biography series. From her difficult childhood to her Emmy Award-winning talk show, O'Donnell's rise to fame is chronicled in this fan-pleasing biography. Stone's tendency to gush about O'Donnell's career and charitable contributions detracts from the book's objectivity, but the general facts are all there. Colorful photographs and graphics add to the fanzine look. A time line is included. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Kristen Oravec

(4) 4-6 A & E Biography series. In this adulatory biography, Krohn looks at O'Donnell's single-minded commitment to her childhood dream to be an entertainer, discussing her work as a struggling stand-up comic, her forays into movie acting, and her current success as a daytime talk show host. Though the writing is sometimes choppy, O'Donnell's belief in herself and her goals comes across. The book is illustrated with standard photos in color and in black and white. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Kitty Flynn