School Library Journal Review

Gr 6-8-The authors present their subjects from early childhood and follow them chronologically as their life achievements unfold. Each chapter begins with an appropriate quote that sets the stage for the content within. Informational sidebars help flesh out the story by providing a picture of the larger historical context such as a description of the northern migration of blacks after the Civil War or musicians' lives during the Great Depression. Well-chosen archival photographs, such as a photo depicting a building with "whites only" and "colored" entrances, add important visual details. Surprisingly detailed facts enrich the accounts by providing a human element to these larger-than-life figures. All three books deliver information in clear, concise texts. They highlight the inspiring lives of important African Americans who, through their courage and conviction, fought against injustice and made significant contributions to society. An unfortunate omission is a lack of documentation for quotes and other material.-Carole Phillips, Greenacres Elementary School, Scarsdale, NY (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.