(3) 4-6 Spies! series. This series delves into the world of espionage and spycraft. Each focusing on a different modern era, the books cover famous figures, such as the Rosenbergs and Edward Snowden, but also lesser-known agents. The insights into spies' motivations and the mechanics behind their craft make for exciting, interesting reads. Photographs and sidebars provide additional nuggets of information. Reading list, timeline. Bib., glos., ind. Review cover these Spies! titles: Deep-Cover Spies and Double-Crossers of the Cold War and Cyber Spies and Secret Agents of Modern Times.

Reviewer: Antonio Trujillo

(3) 4-6 Encounter series. Langston-George covers the last six years of John Wilkes Booth's life while also examining the story of his overshadowed older brother Edwin. While both men were well-known actors, Edwin's affinity for the North contrasted with John's unwavering belief in Southern values that led him to assassinate President Lincoln. Captioned historical photographs and illustrations illuminate this thorough, gripping account. Reading list, timeline. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Jessica Bushore

(3) 4-6 Encounter series. Through moving, fascinating accounts of seven children's experiences on mid-nineteenth-century orphan trains, Langston-George brings this moment from history to vivid life. While also providing broader context, each chapter delves into a different child's background and follows through to his or her eventual (not-always-happy) placement in a home. Archival photographs enhance the narrative. Critical thinking questions are appended. Reading list, timeline. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Kristy Pasquariello

(4) K-3 Encounter series. Illustrated by Janna Bock. Although there are several biographies of the young Pakistani girls'-rights activist for third and fourth graders, this volume's large-picture-book format works well for such primary-grade readers. Sticking to the facts and with direct quotes noted in the back matter, the narrative is accompanied by digital illustrations that vary in quality, from moving images to cartoony pictures of doe-eyed girls. "More About Malala's Story" appended. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Melinda Greenblatt