(4) K-3 Illustrated by Renee Graef. Illustrated with black-and-white drawings, this brief biography begins with Laura's childhood and recounts the actual events that inspired the Little House series. Because the text offers no original insight and does not include source notes or a bibliography, it is not an adequate research tool. Nevertheless, it will find an audience among very young fans of the series.

Reviewer: Anne St. John

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Dan Andreasen. Anderson's picture book biography provides an appealing sketch of the colorful life of Samuel Clemens. Written in affectionate prose, the text makes clear connections between Clemens's experiences and his writing. While Andreasen's illustrations exude a warmth that matches the tone of the text, they aren't quite lively enough to capture the exploits of one of America's most famous writers.

Reviewer: Carolyn Shute

(4) K-3 Anderson describes Wilder's life in a straightforward manner in this attractive, informative book. If they aren't put off by the picture-book format, Little House fans will recognize events from Laura's early life as depicted in her novels, as well as appreciate the picture of her later years as a farmer's wife, mother, and writer. On each double-page spread a large, stiff oil painting accompanies the lengthy, large-type text.

Reviewer: The Horn Book, Inc.