School Library Journal Review

Gr 3-6-This short but informative biography provides both the big picture and small details. It describes Washington's life primarily through his role in the American Revolution and his presidency, but it also gives a clear description of his active youth. Details such as his enjoyment of adventure and dancing, his longing to be an officer in the British army, and his attempts to avoid his bossy mother all help to dispel the image of an austere figure best known through statuary and formal portraits. Other facts tell a great deal about his bravery in the Revolution and his wisdom in his role as the nation's first leader. The full and double-page mixed-media illustrations are beautifully executed, though occasionally busy, and enhance the attractiveness of the volume. Hand-lettered notes, labels, captions, and maps are incorporated into the art and add to the text. A short fact sheet gives additional information about the president's life.-Edith Ching, St. Albans School, Mt. St. Alban, Washington, DC (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.