(4) 4-6 Just the Facts Biographies series. Although Winfrey suffers from wooden prose, all four of these biographies offer some insight into their subjects' lives, inadvertently giving lie to the series' title. Occasional sidebars share useful historical perspectives, but disruptive "It's a Fact!" boxes contain information that should have been integrated into the texts. Black-and-white photos appear throughout. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers these Just the Facts Biographies tiles: J. R. R. Tolkien, Oprah Winfrey, Benjamin Franklin, and John Glenn.

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Kimanne Smith. This introductory biography concentrates on the populist Long's positive contributions to Louisiana, including better roads, free textbooks, good hospitals, and a strong state university. Alluding only briefly to such negatives as his political machine and charges of corruption, the book emphasizes his propensity toward action surrounded by cascades of talk. Detailed art notable for its period authenticity supports the text.

Reviewer: Frieda F. Bostian

(3) K-3 When Alvie's granny, a world-famous chef, comes to visit, Alvie's parents don't tell her that their son only eats soup. But much to his parents' chagrin and Alvie's delight, Granny reveals at book's end her own unusual eating preference. The rollicking text and humorous illustrations featuring dialogue boxes and the occasional wry gag (that only older readers will get) make for a funny, far-fetched tale.

Reviewer: Patricia Riley

(4) YA Masters of Music series. Dr. Suzuki's name is now synonymous with violin instruction for children as young as three or four; this biography follows his life in post-Shogun Japan and WWII and the development of his Talent Education Program. Though the writing gets giddy with enthusiasm sometimes, the overall effect is inspiring. The book is illustrated with black-and-white photos and includes a time line. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Anita L. Burkam

(4) YA World Writers series. The author of "Rip Van Winkle" and "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" is profiled in a flattering biography that focuses on his life as a writer and as the American envoy to Spain. Although the prose is capable, the book doesn't explore Irving's literary work with any depth, nor does it adequately explain its continuing popularity. Black-and-white reproductions, a time line, and a list of major works are included. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(4) YA Notable Americans series. In an effortless, flowing narrative, Collins sketches the short life of a musical genius who revolutionized the playing of jazz cornet. Marred by occasional fictionalized dialogue, the biography effectively mixes clear descriptions of Bix's musical contributions with an empathetic account of his conflicted life--which ended tragically as a result of his alcoholism. Black-and-white photos accompany the text. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: The Horn Book, Inc.