(4) K-3 DK Classic Readers series. Illustrated by Nick Harris. With simplified texts and using many of the same illustrations and photos as the original editions, these two tales are repackaged for younger readers (Robin Hood is geared toward more "proficient" readers). Margin notes with background information are somewhat intrusive. Although these versions lack the depth of fuller retellings, children new to reading can tackle these abridged versions on their own. Glos.

Reviewer: Pamela McCuen

(4) K-3 Eyewitness Readers series. Beginning with a glimpse at her difficult childhood with an alcoholic father, this is a serviceable account of the legendary pilot's accomplishments. Archival photos and textbook-like illustrations compete for space with the main text and with sidebars that provide social and historical context. Some of the sidebar information is only vaguely related to the text but doesn't detract too much from the main subject. Glos.

Reviewer: Kitty Flynn

(4) K-3 Dorling Kindersley Readers series. Written in simple language, this basic outline of Joan of Arc's life manages to convey a balanced view of the enigmatic saint. Factual asides in the margins expand on points in the text but tend to interrupt the narrative flow and are sometimes of limited relevance. Black-and-white and color illustrations from current and archival sources illustrate the book. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Anita L. Burkam

(4) K-3 Dorling Kindersley Readers series. This biography of Martin Luther King, Jr., touches on the major events and accomplishments in King's life and gives background on the civil rights struggle. Telling historical photos mingle with ill-proportioned color drawings to illustrate important moments, while numerous, sometimes irrelevant, marginal asides distract from the main body of the text. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Anita L. Burkam