(2) K-3 Illustrated by John Holyfield. Nolan's straightforward biography of the "Queen of Gospel" focuses on Jackson's youth, path to stardom, and determination to remain true to herself. Jackson pursues her dream despite economic and familial obstacles (racism is addressed only in an appended timeline). Holyfield's dramatic acrylic portraiture gives the subject reverential treatment; the final spread of Jackson's performance preceding King's "I Have a Dream" speech is an apt ending.

Reviewer: Claire E. Gross | Horn Book Magazine Issue: March, 2015

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Brian Pinkney. "Martin Luther King Jr. and Mahalia Jackson combined their respective vocal gifts to form an unshakeable ribbon of faith." A visual representation of that faith, a series of banners with directions (e.g., "This way to freedom") create a frame for each illustration, while words from both King and singer Jackson provide context for the uplifting text. Author and illustrator notes and discography are appended. Timeline. Reading list.

Reviewer: Betty Carter

(4) YA African-American Biographies series. These books chronicle the obstacles and accomplishments of the individuals and their contributions to America. All four provide adequate background information to establish an appropriate context; those of Drew and Terrell include frequent parenthetical definitions. The black-and-white illustrations enhance the easy-to-follow text (which may seem condescending to more accomplished readers). Reading list, timeline, websites. Bib., ind. [Review covers these African-American Biographies titles: Mahalia Jackson, Mary Church Terrell, Dr. Charles Drew, and Denzel Washington.]

Reviewer: Christina Dorr

(4) YA Written in the voice of an omniscient narrator and focusing on Jackson's life in New Orleans and Chicago, Orgill's lively account incorporates a small amount of fictionalized dialogue and succeeds in informing young readers about a twentieth-century giant of American music. Black-and-white photos--some sharp, others dark--supplement this biography. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Jack Forman