From School Library Journal
Grade 6 Up-Marley stretches the bounds of the series, considering the fact that Bob Marley was not American, but Jamaican. This aside, the book is fascinating reading: it brings its subject alive, and inspires readers to listen to Marley's music. The text is filled with details that keep readers' interest. One immediately has the feeling that Marley was someone special. Dolan offers some helpful background on Jamaica, which provides needed historical context. Hendrix is a routine recounting of the guitarist's life. It has little to recommend it as compelling reading other than an introductory chapter that vividly evokes Hendrix's mind-blowing rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" at Woodstock. After that, the text settles into a dry recounting of biographical facts. While there is no argument over Hendrix's enormous talent and his unquestioned influence on generations of rock guitarists, there is no escaping the more sordid aspects of his life, particularly the drug abuse and the unfortunate circumstances of his death. To his credit, Piccoli treats these matters objectively and does not hold the subject up as a role model. Both volumes are illustrated with excellent black-and-white photographs throughout. These titles won't be sought out for pleasure reading, but may prove useful for reports.
Tim Wadham, Dallas Public Library, TXCopyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.