Helen Keller (In Their Own Words)
Grade 4-6-These biographies don't quite live up to their billing. At the beginning of each volume, the author discusses the differences between primary and secondary sources and the importance of using primary sources whenever possible. These introductions and the series title imply that the books rely heavily on the actual written and spoken words of the subject. Instead, what readers will find are perhaps a few more quotes than are common in biographies for young people, but the approach is not shatteringly different. The question, however, is whether this matters. These may not be unique biographies, but they are still well written, fast moving, and highly readable, squeezed into a small format that should appeal to many students. Both books feature black-and-white photos and reproductions, a useful index, a short bibliography of primary and secondary sources, and a short list of further readings, along with places to contact for further information. Certainly much has been written about these two figures and many libraries will find their shelves already well stocked. Those needing more materials, however, will find these to be solid choices.Todd Morning, Schaumburg Township Public Library, ILCopyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.