(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Brad Weinman. This readable biography of one of the world's master fantasists details Tolkien's challenges and achievements in both his personal life and career. Accompanied by black-and-white illustrations, the text relates his experiences as an orphaned student, a distinguished philologist, and a beloved author. A chronological list of Tolkien's work is appended. Ind.

Reviewer: The Horn Book, Inc.

(2) YA Not your average biographies, these are meaty fare, sure to satisfy readers (even reluctant ones) looking for something more than a hero portrait. Most riveting is Cash; least accessible is Carson. Honest and engaging, all four volumes include forewords explaining what drew each author to the subject, black-and-white photographs, and source notes. Websites. Bib., ind. Review covers these titles: Up Close: Robert F. Kennedy, Up Close: Oprah Winfrey, Up Close: Rachel Carson, and Up Close: Johnny Cash.

Reviewer: Tanya D. Auger | Horn Book Magazine Issue: March, 2007

(2) 4-6 Neimark, whose portrait centers its interpretation on a rootless boy who grew up to become a rootless man, writes with an energy reflective of young Woody hurrying to get words on paper. She doesn't ignore his imperfections, yet it is Woody's own voice that takes center stage, resulting in almost a written hootenanny in tribute to this "wispy little guitar picker." Ind.

Reviewer: Betty Carter | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2002