(3) 4-6 Using traditional legends, the limited historical facts available, and quotations from Confucius's own writing, Demi has created a readable picture-book biography that emphasizes the sage's philosophy and educational teachings--ideas that still live on twenty-five hundred years later. Demi's signature paint and ink illustrations--with their diminutive figures, intricate detail, and gold borders--are full of action. Bib.

Reviewer: Melinda Greenblatt

(4) 4-6 Biography from Ancient Civilizations: Legends, Folklore, and Stories of Ancient Worlds series. Despite bland designs (and a fictionalized first chapter in Marco Polo), both of these well-written books do a good job of introducing their subjects to upper-elementary or middle-school students. The chapter notes and bibliographies attest to careful research. Illustrations from various sources add little to the books. Maps and informative sidebars are included. Reading list, timeline, websites. Glos., ind. Review covers these Biography from Ancient Civilizations: Legends, Folklore, and Stories of Ancient Worlds titles: The Life and Times of Confucious and The Life and Times of Marco Polo.

Reviewer: Barbara Barstow

(4) 4-6 Book Report Biography series. A disparate group of individuals are featured in this series of books, each beginning with an important moment in the subject's life and then looking back at his childhood and forward to his important personal achievements. The books are readable, though the accompanying black-and-white photos and reproductions are often dark. All the books contain chronologies; Lucas and MacArthur include glossaries. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta