From School Library Journal
Grade 2-3-This easy-reader provides short, concise biographical sketches of the early lives and major accomplishments of Susan McKinney Steward, George Washington Carver, Ernest Everett Just, Percy Lavon Julian, and Shirley Ann Jackson. Jones provides just enough information for reports for younger primary or reluctant upper-elementary students. The straightforward text is written in short, uncomplicated sentences with a few instances of fictionalization. Though the black-and-white archival photos and reproductions and the colorful artwork lack brightness and clarity, they still provide a personal touch and help readers see how these individuals looked at different stages of their lives. Overall, this title is worth the purchase for its coverage and its accessible format.
Eunice Weech, M. L. King Elementary School, Urbana, IL Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Of the five scientists profiled in this book in the Hello Reader series, only George Washington Carver is a well-known name, but the others have equally interesting stories. Susan McKinley Stewart was one of the first black women doctors; Ernest Just, a marine biologist; Percy Lavon Julian, a chemist, found many uses for soybeans, including a drug for glaucoma; and Shirley Ann Jackson, a nuclear scientist. The text is straightforward and interesting, and the design is a nice mix of photographs and original art. Kids will enjoy meeting these scientists and may be inspired to look into science as a career for themselves.
Ilene CooperCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved