Reviews (5)

Each of us can make a difference
This is such a powerful little book. I used it with my sixth grade class as part of a unit on Japanese internment camps with the books Farewell to Manzanar by Jeanne Wakatsuki Houston and Under the Blood Red Sun by Graham Salisbury. While these books are excellent at helping students to understand what happened to Japanese Americans during World War II, it wasn't until I read them Passage to Freedom that the students began to more fully understand that they could take a stand as individuals to stop prejudice. Each of us, if we are brave enough, has the power to make a difference. Chiune Sugihara was brave, and he was determined to do what he knew in his heart was right. Because of him, thousands of Jews escaped from certain death. This book is priceless.

A real hero
Ken Mochizuki's excellent telling of the events during the early days of WWII when Chiune Sugihara saved thousand of Jews by giving them visas. In a dark period of Japanese history, one man, a Japanese diplomat, listened to his conscience, discussed the consequences with his wife and children, and chose to do the right thing. After the Russians took over Lithuania, Sugihara was forced to close the Japanese Embassy, but he continued writing visas until the last possible moment. Dom Lee's muted and detailed illustrations superbly enhance the story.

This is a wonderful book.
It should be required reading for U.S. immigration and consular officials. Having lawful orders to obey (Sugihara's instructions from his government were lawful, and no different from instructions given to US officials) does not absolve one from responsibility for others. This is an important lesson for children and adults.

The illustrations are haunting.

It is a book that you and your children will not soon forget.

It's a great book
I'm a 6th grade student who likes to read. I thought the book was interesting. It had good illustrations. If you don't know what a visa is in this story it's like a passport. I don't want to spoil the story for you so I won't tell you anymore of the story.

A very important book for children and adults.
A wonderful book, with an important story. Mr. Sugihara was one of those Japanese who do not follow sheepishly every instruction given to him by his government, and thank God! Using his conscience and humanitarian spirit, he helped saved the lives of many Jews, and he did this by disobeying instructions of his own government, which at that time in history was allied with the Nazis. Not only does this story deserve to be told, it needs to be told to an international audience. Mr. Mochizuki has written one of the most important children's books of the 20th century! Bravo! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

The Life Of Thomas A. Edison
Thomas A. Edison is about a boy who likes to ask questions. He came into his gooses nest and sat on her egg. Isn't that weird. He wanted the egg process to go faster. Tom is a good boy. You would like this book if you read it. It is funny and it is exciting. While you are reading it, you won't even know that you are learning. I was supposed to read it as a book report and I am glad I chose to read it. Tom was dedicated to make what he is working on come true. He messed up a couple of times like the time he told his friend to drink these two chemicals mix together so his friend could fly like a bird. Instead, hisd friendf got sick. I laughed. I give this book 5 points!

"The Wizard of Menlo Park"
Have you ever tried to sit on an egg and hatch it? Thomas Alva Edison did! He was a young who was curious about the world around him. He was born in a city near New York City. His family did not have much money, but they made a great effort to send young Thomas to school. At his first school that he attended, he was expelled for asking too much questions to her teacher. At his other 2 schools that he went too, he was also expelled for asking too many questions. At a young age Thomas would sell newspapers at a railroad. At the young age of 23, Thomas invented the phonograph, which is the grandfather of the Compact Disk. Then a couple of years later Thomas after 7 attempts invented the Light bulb. Years after inventing the light bulb, New York City was entirely lighted by light bulbs thanks to Thomas. He was even called "The wizard of Menlo Park".
This hilarious biography will make you want to keep reading and reading. The only thing that can stop you is the end of the book! The author, Sue Gut ridge, really makes you feel like if you were really Thomas Edison and by the way she describes him, you feel sad when Thomas is sad and you feel happy when Thomas is happy. This book is for someone that likes to laugh and feel really emotional at the same time.
Thomas Edison is a motivating biography that makes you feel better about yourself. When I read this book I felt muck better about my family and myself. I realized that I could be anyone if I wanted to by just closing my eyes and having a good imagination. Read it, buy it; you will have hours of unstoppable fun while you read this marvelous book and it has a marvelous ... price.

Thomas A. Edison
This book is wonderful for ages 8 - 12 who want to read about Thomas Edison's childhood and important things about his adult life. Each chapter has exciting stories that happened to this inquisitive boy. He was a very curious boy who would always ask questions. His parents, mother in particular, are very supportive of his curiosity. There are interesting events that happen like when Thomas gets his first ice skates and when he rides on a steam engine train. If you are interested in the world around you and maybe interested in science, then this is the book for you. It's fascinating to read about Thomas Edison as a young boy and as he grows into an adult because the only info I had before was a listing of his inventions. By the way, it would be very fast reading for an adult, and it might be nice if your child is reading this that you read it, too. ... Read more

Book Description

U.S. Air Force Captain Scott O'Grady was shot down in his F-16 over Bosnia while helping to keep the peace. The plane exploded, and Captain O'Grady fell 5 miles to the ground below. In exciting detail, Captain O'Grady tells how he evaded capture and how, with little water and no food, he was able to survive on his own in enemy territory. ... Read more

Reviews (24)

Nice Short Survival Story
This book is very short and to the point but it doesn't leave anything important out. It is the true story of U.S. Air Force Captain Scott O'Grady who was shot down in Bosnia in 1995 by a surface to air missile while flying missions for the United Nations forces there. He ejected from his disintegrating aircraft and had to survive and evade capture for six days behind enemy lines before he was rescued by friendly forces.

While not the most harrowing aviation survival account I've read (BAT 21 was much more intense) it is nevertheless a good, solid example of how people can survive if they have the right training, equipment and, above all, the right attitude. O'Grady's account is told in a frank no-nonsense way and he is quick to admit his own mistakes and fears and he quickly acknowledges that the real heroes were the guys who came to get him.

This book was very, very suspenseful
This true life story was based on Captain Scott O'Gradywho was an F-16 U.S. Air Force pilot. On his way to his destination point in Bosnia he was shot down by enemy pilots. Captain O'Grady parachuted five miles to the ground and he had no food or water. Scott O'Grady is considered a U.S.A. hero because of the skill, faith, and courage he had while fulfilling his duties as a member of the Air Force.

¿¿¿¿~~~???? cool book!!!
This book is great, it has great details, O'Grady's strive to survive, made a great storie. He had to go through all kinds of obsticals including being hunted down by Bosnian troops. His will to survive let him get through all his obsticals. I recomend this book for people who likes adventure books. This book is almost like the movie "Behing Enemy Lines", so if you like that movie you should check this book out.

Excellent book!
"Basher Five-Two" is an excellent portrayal of survival of a lone man in territory where everyone is the enemy. It's short, but it packs a lot of detail in. It's a great, short read that you'll be sure to like.

Basher Five-Two
This is a story of a man called Captain Scott O' Grady. He starts off preparing to go on patrol to make sure that planes don't fly in a peace area. While patrolling, he is shot down. He then tries to live behind enemy lines until a rescue team comes. He tries to survive for days off of little food and water, while hiding from the enemy. Six days later, a rescue team comes and takes him back home.

I didn't choose this book. My mother bought me the book for me. After I started to read the book I got really interested in it. I like it because it's a true story, and also because it is full of excitement and adventure. I also liked it because it is about planes.

My favorite part was when Captain Scott was patrolling the airs with his friend Wilber. While patrolling the East, his friend was locked on by a Threat-Radar, the kinds that can give you enough information that you can launch a missile in seconds. Then patrolling that area again, he was locked on a shot down by a SAM (Surface-to-air-missiles). While falling, he ejects very early. he then activates his parachute manually, and waits for his seat to fall off on its own. While he falls he directs his chute to try and go to a forest where he can hide and wait. ... Read more

Book Description

Michael Jordan.

The mere mention of the name conjures up visions of basketball played at its absolute best. But as a child, Michael almost gave up on his hoop dreams, all because he feared he'd never grow tall enough to play the game that would one day make him famous. That's when his mother and father stepped in and shared the invaluable lesson of what really goes into the making of a champion -- patience, determination, and hard work.

Deloris Jordan, mother of the basketball phenomenon, teams up with his sister Roslyn to tell this heartwarming and inspirational story that only the members of the Jordan family could tell. It's a tale about faith and hope and how any family working together can help a child make his or her dreams come true. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Excellent teaching tool that entertains as well!
One might imagine that legendary basketball star Michael Jordan was born with a boatload of confidence. That was not the case. "Salt in His Shoes", written by Jordan's mother Deloris and sister Rosalyn, tells an early chapter in the life of the athlete as he struggles to come to terms with his lack of height. Playing when he could with older brothers Larry and Ronnie, Michael is intimidated by a much taller boy named Mark. Every time that he plays against Mark's team, the Jordan boys lose.

Michael goes home complaining to his mother, wishing that he could be a little taller. Mother tells him that all she has to do is pray and put salt in his shoes. Michael's young mind wonders how the salt can cause him to grow, but he figures that his mother's skill with raising luscious flowers must be attributed to something. Every night he goes to sleep while Mother sprinkles her "magic" into his shoes. However, the boy's growth is slow in coming and he feels more depressed.

Michael's father comforts the boy and tells him that it's not how tall he is but how he uses his skills. This little burst of inspiration is just enough. The next time the Jordan boys tackle Mark's team, they are victorious with Michael scoring the winning points.

Being fans of Michael Jordan can relate to this tale from his early days. It is well documented that Jordan had a strong relationship with his father; however, the book reveals the powerful bond that he also had with his mother. The story shows a nuclear family featuring both parents and siblings, all of them concerned about Michael. This will prove to be an invaluable tool in stressing familial relationships.

Hard Work, Determination, and Michael Jordan Magic...
This book has it all. Kadir Nelson's illustrations immediately capture your attention. The cover is representative of the size and quality of pictures throughout the book. I've used this book in my classroom. Kids love it. Both boys and girls enjoy the story of the young Michael Jordan. They relate to going up against the big kid and wanting to change physically (in this case to become taller). Some kids even admit to putting salt in their shoes. The family support in this story provides the direction he needs to accomplish his goal of becoming a great basketball player and becoming the playground hero. Great message, great story, great illustrations. Everyone needs to realize the importance of hard work, determination, and believing in a little Michael Jordan magic. We want to encourage our kids to reach for the stars, and this book helps do that.

Salt in his shoes
There once was a kid that just wanted to play baskerball with his older bothers but there is a taller kid at the basketball park. That all was picked on him and told him he cant play bastekball because he was to short. So Micheal asked his mom how can he grow faster. She told him to put salt in shoes every night before he goes to bed. so he does for two mouths and doesnt grow. so his dad has a talk with him. Then he goes and playes and the game.

Salt In His Shoes ~ Deloris Jordan
I like this book's interesting way on how to teach a child to chase his dreams. Most children think it is impossible to reach for your dreams, but this book shows an interesting way to make a child pursue their dream. When you tell a children to do something they may not want to do it. But when you take a different approach, the request might have an effect on the child. Showing a chilren how to acccomplish his/her dreams is better then talking to them about it.

This story shows a little boy who loves to play basketball, how to make himself a better player. When you explain to a child how to overcome their enemies, and set a goal for them they are more likely to accomplish it. Yosu cannot accomplish your child's dream, but you can show them a good path to take. Kids always need an extra push to understand how something work. To achieve your goals all you need is practice, persistance, and determination.

Wonderful Book
This is a wonderful book. I purchased it for my 8 year old nephew and he absolutely enjoys it. He reads it all the time especially before his basketball games. Its wonderful and inspirings and lets kids know with hard work their dreams can come to fruition. ... Read more

Amazon.com

When Henry and his friend agree to go to Fitchburg to see the country, they each choose very different methods of travel, based on their very different approaches to life. This charming little story illustrates through minimal text and fantastically stylized paintings the concepts Henry David Thoreau spent his life trying out. While Henry (the storybook Henry is a bear) collects flowers to press, strolls on stone walls, finds bird nests, and gathers blackberries, his friend toils and sweats to earn enough money for the train fare to Fitchburg.

With subtle nods at Thoreau and his real-life pals Ralph Waldo Emerson and Nathaniel Hawthorne (Henry's friend cleans out Mrs. Thoreau's chicken house, moves the bookcases in Mr. Emerson's study, and pulls weeds in Mr. Hawthorne's garden), D.B. Johnson cleverly introduces young readers to these important historical figures. No moralizing here, just a gentle, humorous look at the different paths each person may choose in life. Johnson chose a passage in Thoreau's Walden (the passage is included in the informative author's note) as inspiration for this delightful picture book, which Thoreau himself would probably be proud to read. (Ages 5 to 8) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (20)

A Story With A Unique Perspective For Daily Life
3 to 8 yrs. Some may find this book objectionable in that they may believe that its underlying message for children is 'work is bad.' But that doesn't seem to be the author's intent. It seems to be more observational then as a teaching tool.

Based on a passage from Henry David Thoreau's Walden, the story is about Henry--the main animal character (bear?) in the story--and his friend, who decide to go to Fitchburg. Henry chooses to walk the 30 miles, while his friend plans to work, so that he can earn enough money to ride the train. We then bounce from character to character to witness what they are experiencing in their quest to get to Fitchburg.

Good illustrations, and interesting story providing ample discussion material for parents and children, about the different meanings this story possess.

Marching to different drummers
There's a lot to love in this book by D. B. Johnson. There is the priceless story-lesson concerning two bears traveling to the same destination by widely divergent paths, one enjoying the pleasures of nature along the way while the other works to earn fare to travel by more modern means. There are the beautifully memorable illustrations, one after another, of the bears as they make their way to Fitchburg. And there is the message, to stop and smell the roses, take in a little nature, just walk. Or maybe just sit in the woods and read Thoreau.

Great place to start
This book is an introduction for young children to the philosophy of simplicity. Johnson has adapted the true story of Henry Thoreau's hike to Fitchburg into a children's tale that kids can understand and cherish. As the book begins, Henry is talking to a friend, and they decide to go to Fitchburg. The friend thinks it would be faster to take the train, but contrary old Henry says it would be faster to walk. Rather than argue their points, the two friends each set off to Fitchburg in their own by their own method. Of course, the friend has to earn money to pay the train fare, so he spends all day doing various odd jobs before taking the night train. Henry, on the other hand, sets off walking, and enjoys the beautiful scenery along the way. They both eventually get to Fitchburg, but they had very different experiences in meeting their goal.

The format of the book, with one side of each page devoted to Henry and the other to his friend, gets children to focus on a constant comparison between the experiences of the two characters. By the end of the book, the children see that there are many ways to reach a goal, and contrary to common practice, sometimes those methods that don't cost money may be preferable- -it all depends on what you value in life. This book would be a great starting point for conversations with children about the choices that they or their families are making. And the pictures are wonderful, too!

Fabulous bk.-great for kids of all ages & a great baby gift!
Aside from the local historical references (towns en route to Fitchburg & famous local historical figures incuding the Emersons & Alcotts), this bk. is a charmer. Lovely illustrations, sweet life lessons about taking time to enjoy the journey rather than trying to hurry it along just to 'get there faster', & the understated moral of the story as stated by Henry at the end. I'd recommend this to anyone-baby through adult-so pleasing to the eyes and to the soul!

A little lesson in taking time to smell the roses!
I read this book based on Javagirl 23's reveiew, and I must give her kudos. Great pick! Henry (a bear) and his friend decide to visit Fitchburg. Henry plans to walk, but his friend decides to work enough to afford train fare, since walking will take forever. While Henry's friend slaves away at different jobs (pick up on the last names of the employers!), Henry leisurely strolls towards Fitchburg, collecting flowers to press, berries, and enjoying himself thouroughly. Henry's friend finally gets his train fare, and they both end up in Fitchburg at the same time. "The train was a lot faster!", says his friend. Henry merely replies, "Yes...but I got us some berries to eat". What's the lesson? Sometimes the fastest way isn't necessarily the best way...take time to stop and smell the roses...or any other cliche you prefer. This is a great lesson for adults- stop rushing around so much and take the slower way of doing something; there may be more enjoyment along the way if you do. ... Read more

Book Description

The bestselling biography of Helen Keller and how, with the commitment and lifelong friendship of Anne Sullivan, she learned to talk, read, and eventually graduate from college with honors. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

This touching story teaches young, open minds to value life.
How does one condense the triumphant account of an American heroine into an easy-to-read biography? Chronologically spanning Helen Keller's lifetime, Davidson focuses on Keller's crucial early years, when Annie Sullivan first unlocked Helen's world of darkness. Colorful dialogue will excite third and fourth grade readers; Helen advises such young readers to "taste every bit of food as if tomorrow you would never smell or taste again." The presence of such actual quotations is confounded by Davidson's other paraphrased dialogue between Mrs. Keller and Ms. Sullivan; The lack of a bibliography, or even mention of Keller's infamous The Story Of My Life hampers children's further explorations. Davidson's use of "blind children," and "deaf boys and girls," appropriate to Helen's era violates the principle of people-first language appropriate for today's reader, and should be noted by adults. Still, intermediate readers gain insight from the accurate classic photographs at the back of the book while younger listeners enjoy the decorative black and white sketches complementing the story line. Both reader and listener may open their minds through Helen's viewpoint that "the best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched," but "must be felt with the heart." This touching, real-life story teaches young, open minds to value life and seize every opportunity.

This is the best book ever!
The story of Helen Keller and her life of silence and darkness is told wonderfully in this book. I first read this books when I was about 7 (I am now 16) and it is still my absolute favorite book! I have read countless times and my book has fallen apart. This is a great book for anyone!

First Chapter Book
This is the first chapter book I ever read. I am now 13 year olds and when I was in 1st grade I learned to read. In first grade I read this book and was hooked on reading forever after that. So thank you to the author!
This book has 95 pages in it, I remember it seemed so long then!

Two generations loved this book
My 8 year old just finished this book and was fascinated. I realized as I looked through it that I read it as a child and loved it too (as an 11 year old). My daughter is now eager to learn more about Braille and the consequences of being blind--though I had to ask her not to walk through the kitchen with her eyes closed. She loved the photos and can't wait to read about Annie Sullivan. A great book to show the triumph of the human spirit over adversity--and without pity!

Helen Keller
I didn't really like Helen Keller. My favorite part is when Helen got her diploma because she was the first blind and deaf to graduate. I don't know how you can chan it was her life.I read it because it was a asiment. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Great!!
I am a Kindergarten teacher and this is a great book to read to them. It has excellent pictures. The words can be difficult for Kindergarteners to understand, however, with a little preparation, they will grasp the concept of the book. This book shows the daily lives of a Pilgrim girl. Samuel Eaton's Day compliments this book.

I share it with every teacher
We originally bought this book at Plimoth Village. My children love it. Having photos of people in actual period dress makes it so much easier to understand that they were real people and they lived differently from us. I share our copy of the book with my children's teachers every fall and they all love it and beg for our copy. Tonight, I'm buying them their own!

Sarah Morton's Day Beautiful Photos
Live photos. Great story. The notes in the back on history of the Plimoth Plantation and who Sarah Norton really are cool. Sarah Morton was really a girl who lived in a house with dirt floor in 1627. There's even a glossary in the back.

A child in early American life
This book is a photo-journal portrayal of the life of a girl in early America. Based on a real-life child, the recreation (interpretation) in historic setting makes the reader feel as if he or she is right there, living the life.

It provides a great day-in-the-life picture. I borrowed this book from the library because it is part of the "core curriculum" recommended by E.D. Hirsch.

My 6 year old daughter now has a very concrete basis for comparing her own life to what it might have been at another time. It's inspiring and fun. And a great teaching tool (as mentioned in the previous review.)

My kids never tire of it
My kids (4 and 6) love this book, and want it read to them again and again. It follows a day in the life of young Sarah Morton, a historical character who was a child in early Plymouth Colony. It shows how the people lived then and how their world view differed from ours, yet it entertains at the same time. It can serve as a springboard for discussions on many different topics -- history, responsibility, religion, family, grief, hard work, and no doubt others. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (98)

Horrific truths, but accurately entertaining.
If you have read the Royal Diaries series you would know how cruel Mary was to Elizabeth. Everything has a reason. Mary's life was royal, but cruel, cold, and without comfort. Maybe this is what led her to her horrible ruling later on. Mary Tudor was the daughter of King Henry IV (the terror of his wives) and Catherine of Aragon who was daughter of Isabel and Ferdinand of Spain. The story starts out when Mary is betrothed by her father to a man she never wishes to marry. Soon afterwards, Henry the IV has a liking towards Anne Boleyn. The so called witch has plans to marry the king and give him a son. Catherine of Aragon becomes completely pushed out of Henry's life. Henry sent her away and she died with an unhappy life. Henry pays Mary and the death of her mother no mind however. He cancels the betrothal to Mary's consent.He is too bewitched by Anne and marries her immediately. She is sickingly sweet in front of her husband, but when he is gone she is as cold and hard as ice to Mary and makes her bow to her. Soon afterwards Anne is said to be pregnant. She continues on being cruel. After Anne gives birth she is in despair to know that her baby is a girl. Anne makes Mary take care of her baby and change her diaper. Henry however goes mad and if I continue I will give the story away so I will stop right here....................

The Other Side of the Story
This is a first-person account of "Bloody Mary", Queen Elizabeth I's older half-sister. "Mary, Bloody Mary" is fun to read and very well-written. I especially like the parts when she is excluded from her father's love. It really makes you feel for Mary - especially because it's all true! Although I have always disliked Mary for her cruelty to Elizabeth, this book gave a sympathetic look at how Anne Boleyn (and eventually Elizabeth) took away Mary's rights. While I was reading this book I, too, started to feel sorry for Mary, but it ended too soon for me to really feel sorry for her. And the epilogue reminded me that no matter how rotten a deal Mary got because of Anne Boleyn, she had no right to be so mean to Elizabeth (and the countless other people she murdered - hence "Bloody Mary").

A novel to remember.
Ah, history! My favorite subject, and an intriguing thing. Mary has been brought to life, both her worried, youthful side, and her detremined and stubborn side, the part of her that made her known as Mary, Bloody Mary, England's queen. This story, taking place in her youth, is well decribed with utmost accuracy. Depicting the eventful life of Mary Tudor, you will plummet into the sixteenth century, and into the heart of a princess. When I picked this book up, I wondered if it would be like a fairy tale, saying how wonderful and fruitful Mary's life was, and I was surprised when I read the story. Instead of boring literature, it shows the real life of Mary, her feelings about her father, his new wife, and Mary's own half sister, and how confused on the inside she is, but how brave she trys to act. Showing how a young girl is forced into womanhood, this is a novel to remember.

Absolutely Amazing
"Mary Bloody Mary" is one of the best books I have ever read! This book is full of adventure and suspence!I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good book on history. This book is definitely one of a kind!!!!

Good read for pre-teens and teens
Mary, Bloody Mary is the story of Mary Tudor's pre-teen and teenage years written for that age-group. Told from the first-person point of view, Mary tells of Anne Boylen's increasing power over the king, the casting-off of Mary and her mother, the birth and care of Elizabeth and Anne's eventual downfall. The book ends with the marriage of Henry to Jane Seymour, making "Mary, Bloody Mary" an inappropriate title as that nickname was not earned until many years later.

On the whole, it's an fine book to give to early teens who are starting to, or maybe need to be encouraged to, develop an interest in history, the role of women throughout history, and strong female historical figures. ... Read more

Book Description

I had freckles.
I had sandy hair. I was too short.
Would my feet even touch the ground if I sat on the throne?

These are the words of lady Jane Grey, as imagined by celebrated author Ann Rinaldi. Jane would become Queen of England for only nine days before being beheaded at the age of sixteen.

Here is a breathtaking story of English royalty with its pageantry, privilege, and surprising cruelty. As she did in her previous novel Mutiny's Daughter, Ms. Rinaldi uses powerful, evocative writing to bring to life a teenage girl caught in the grip of stirring times.

Book Description

Motivated by her love for the game and inspired by the legendary Jackie Robinson,Mamie Johnson is determined to be a professional baseball pitcher.But in a sport that’sdominated by white men, there is no place for a black woman.Mamie doesn’t give up— from the time she insists on trying out for the all-male, all-white Police Athletic Leagueteam until she realizes her dream and becomes one of only three women to play in theNegro Leagues.Mamie Johnson’s life shows that with courage and perseverance one canovercome even the greatest challenges. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

An Inspiration Read for All Ages
"Do you have a dream? If you don't, maybe my story will get you started working on one. If you do, darling, you're already halfway to making it come true." Mamie Johnson's story is one that many will not be familiar with but one that leaves you feeling like you have met a new friend. This is a would be a great book for children between the grades 3-5 and are sports fans. But reading about Mamie's desire to achieve the goals she has had throughout her life is inspirational for any age. This is a great read for anyone looking for a story of courage and determination.

Mamie recounts her dream of playing baseball. Growing up in the 1930's and 40's was especially difficult for African American females, especially ones who loved baseball. But Mamie had a deep love for baseball and the determination to do "what she had been made to do."

Mamie takes us on her journey which began with the Police Athletic League when she was in elementary school giving her her first chance to play with the boys. Like many times after this, Mamie was able to leave people speechless with her ability to play baseball for a woman or a man. Then two years after graduating from high school in 1953, Mamie had her chance at the minors.

Standing at only 5'2" and 92 pounds, Mamie earned her spot pitching for the Indianapolis Clowns, a team in the Negro League. Mamie was one of only three women to every play in the Negro League. Before her baseball career came to an end, Mamie earned the name "Peanut" while playing in the Negro World Series for her image of being "a peanut of a woman in a man's game" as one mouthy fan put it.

Mamie's life story represents the power of a dream. You are never too young to begin dreaming and setting goals for your life. While reading this book, you are going to be amazed at the talent and the desire to stop at nothing. After reading the book, you will be encouraged from a lady who knows what it means to go up against the odds. If you can dream it, it's possible. Take it from Mamie "Peanut" Johnson...she knows. And at 66, she still hasn't stopped dreaming.

Fascinating Story, Fascinating Person
Green presents the fascinating story of Mamie "Peanut" Johnson, one of only three female professional baseball players. Raised in the Deep South, Johnson had a deep love of baseball early on and wanted to play the game, although she had two strikes against her: she was female and she was African American. Green describes Johnson's efforts to challenge the boundaries built around her because or her race and gender, and recounts both victories and defeats in the face of overt racism and sexism. Johnson's biggest break came in 1953, when she was signed by the Indianapolis Clowns in baseball's Negro Leagues. With the color barrier broken by Jackie Robinson, many players from the Negro Leagues had moved on to the Major League, leaving the owners of the Clowns desperate to sign new talent. Johnson played for the team until 1955. The book concludes with Johnson's present-day passion to keep people conscious of the Negro Leagues and their role in baseball's history.

Although Green's first-person narration in the character of Mamie Johnson is confusing at first, the story of Johnson's life is compelling. The reader cannot help but admire Johnson. The vivid portrayal of the Negro Leagues and the prejudices of the day make this a great selection for Black History Month assignments, and Johnson's role as one of only three female pro baseball players makes this suitable for Women's History Month as well. However, it will be a shame if those commemorations are the only occasions when this book is read. The book includes an introduction by Johnson herself, who recounts how the author discovered her and her story; there are also a list of additional resources and a note about the "They Played Baseball" foundation.

Not Just A Regular Baseball Player
I believe this is a great book for young girls and also die hard baseball fans. It gives the wonderful message that if you really want to do something deep down in your heart, you can do it. Mamie Johnson proved this by being only one of three women ever in the Negro League. All througout her life she overcame both the fact of being an African American and a girl. She proved to everyone that she deserved a her position as a pitcher on the team. This book not only discuses the challenges of being a woman playing a man's game, but it also discuses the issue of segregation in the 1940's and 1950's. She discusses the problems the Negro League had to endure when playing games in the south, along with the the problems players like Jackie Robinson encountered in the major leagues as the first African American baseball player to cross the color barrier and play on a white major league team. Besides being a great inspirational story about a girl who defeated the odds and followed her dreams, it is also a great read because it describes one of the hidden and unacknowledged aspects in the history of baseball.

Fabulous story of an American Hero
What a great book !! Michelle Green does a wonderful job telling the story of Mamie Johnson, Negro league pitcher, and the first woman to ever pitch during the regular season for a men's team. Johnson is a true American hero. This is a little known part of our history that the author vividly brings to life. A Strong Right Arm tells an inspiring story for everyone, baseball fan and non-fan alike. ... Read more

Book Description

A Life in Hiding

When the German army occupied Holland, Annie de Leeuw was eight years old. Because she was Jewish, the occupation put her in grave danger-she knew that to stay alive she would have to hide. Fortunately, a Gentile family, the Oostervelds, offered to help. For two years they hid Annie and her sister, Sini, in the cramped upstairs room of their farmhouse.

Most people thought the war wouldn't last long. But for Annie and Sini -- separated from their family and confined to one tiny room -- the war seemed to go on forever.

In the part of the marketplace where flowers had been sold twice a week-tulips in the spring, roses in the summer-stood German tanks and German soldiers. Annie de Leeuw was eight years old in 1940 when the Germans attacked Holland and marched into the town of Winterswijk where she lived. Annie was ten when, because she was Jewish and in great danger of being cap-tured by the invaders, she and her sister Sini had to leave their father, mother, and older sister Rachel to go into hiding in the upstairs room of a remote farmhouse.
Johanna de Leeuw Reiss has written a remarkably fresh and moving account of her own experiences as a young girl during World War II. Like many adults she was innocent of the German plans for Jews, and she might have gone to a labor camp as scores of families did. "It won't be for long and the Germans have told us we'll be treated well," those families said. "What can happen?" They did not know, and they could not imagine.... But millions of Jews found out.
Mrs. Reiss's picture of the Oosterveld family with whom she lived, and of Annie and Sini, reflects a deep spirit of optimism, a faith in the ingenuity, backbone, and even humor with which ordinary human beings meet extraordinary challenges. In the steady, matter-of-fact, day-by-day courage they all showed lies a profound strength that transcends the horrors of the long and frightening war. Here is a memorable book, one that will be read and reread for years to come.

1973 Newbery Honor Book
Notable Children's Books of 1971–1975 (ALA)
Best Books of 1972 (SLJ)
Outstanding Children's Books of 1972 (NYT)
1973 Jane Addams Award Honor Book
Children's Books of 1972 (Library of Congress)
The Buxtehude Bulla Prize 1976 (German Award for Outstanding Children's Book Promoting Peace)
1972 Jewish Book Council Children's Book Award

Reviews (68)

GREAT BOOK!!!
The book I have read is called The Upstairs Room, by Johanna Reiss. Harper Collins Publishers published it in 1972. This is a fiction book that is based on the events that have happened in World War II. It is during the Holocaust in WWII, and explains all of the emotions a specific family of Jews went thorough during their life in hiding.
In this book, the De Leeuw family from Winterswijk, Holland, hear on the radio about the Nazis moving in and taking the Jews away to work camps. There is Ies, the father and Sophie, the mother. There is Annie, the main character and the narrator, her older sister Sini, and her oldest sister Rachel.
After a while, their family and friends start to move to America, deeper into Holland, or stay and brave the Nazis in hope that the allies will win the war soon. Soon the Jews have many unfair laws against them, made by the Nazis. The De Leeuw's lose a lot of friends just because they are Jewish, and the Jews have to give up their jobs and quit school.
The family breaks up into different hiding places in other family's houses where Annie finds out the truth behind the work camps, and the horrors going on in them. They spent a couple of years in hiding, go through many dangerous times, and await the end of the war.
I think this book is sad because the Jews went a lot of pain and sadness. I agree with the author when she says how destructive the Holocaust was because she experienced it first hand. It brings up a lot of questions such as why Hitler and the Nazis were doing these things to the Jews. This book relates to the racism going on today.
After all, this book brings the reader back to the Holocaust and brings up points on the issue, especially to respect others. AM

The Upstairs Room
In class I was assigned to read The Upstairs Room by Johanna Reiss. The story takes place during the Holocaust in the city of Usselo, Holland. The main character is Annie. She is a small girl with dark hair. She has two sisters and her mother gets very sick. I have also read the book Parallel Journeys by Eleanor Ayer, with quotes from Alfons Heck, a German soldier, and Helen Waterford, a Jew. Both Parallel Journeys and The Upstairs Room are about the Holocaust and what it was like to be a Jew. I feel that the message of The Upstiars Room was to treat all people equal. During the Holocaust, Hitler hated the Jews and was killing them. The Jews had to hide so that they would not be killed, but if they were found, they would be sent to work or extermination camps. Hitler established the Hitler Youth in which there were ranks. If you got to the top of the ranks, you would then be moved to the German army. I think The Upstairs Room is an excellent book. It was very exciting. It made me imagine myself as Annie. I think Johanna Reiss did a good job telling the story as Annie. I would recommend this book to girls from grades six and up because there was some language inappropriate for young childrenand some boys that read The Upstairs Room told me that it was a girl's book. I hope this book review helps you decide if you want to read The Upstairs Room.

The Upstairs Room by Stephen MacPherson
This book is based om Johanna Reiss's experiences in the world war 2 as a young girl becoming a young woman. Annie is just about 6 years old and words of Hitler coming to power and war are starting to arise. Annie lives in Holland and it is the year 1942. The german soldiers are starting to make their way toward Winterjswik where Annie lives. Ies, Annie's father believes they should go to america because the Germans are coming way to close. His wife, Sophie says she couldn't go to America and start all over again because she has kidney problems which gives her terrible migranes. Sophie feels that if Ies builds a house right on the edge of Wintersjwik, the part not near where the soldiers are coming they'll be just as safe in America. The family soon moves to the new house because the Germans come to close and they just get out in time. Sophie soon has to go to the hospital because her condition is way too bad. All their jobs are taling awy and they are not allowed to travel because they are Jewish. Soon their not allowed to visit their mom at the hospital so Annie gets permission from the governor. Soon Ies feels unsafe and finds a farmer to hide with. Ies finds a farmer to find Annie and her two sisters, Rachel who is a teacher and Sini who has her milking diploma. The farmers name is Mr. Hannink. Annie and Sini go to Mr. hannink's home where they will hide. Rachel doesn't go and stays with her mom. Mr. Hannink soon feels the germans are coming onto his hiding of Jews so he sends Annie and Sini to the Oostervelds where he says their gonna stay for only 2 weeks. They end up staying there for almost 2 years and almost got caught by the Germans from a check up one night but they were hidden in a closet where they couldn't be seen. They were there for the 2 years until canadian soldiers came through their town and freed them. After the war Annie had crooked legs but she got joined back up with her Father and 2 sisters and went back to Wintersjwik. But unfortunately her mother died from her bad condition.

Excellent
The Upstairs Room is an excellent book about Jews hiding during WWII. The main character is Annie de Leeuw. She was a nine-year-old Jewish girl living in Holland. Slowly Annie and her family were forced to quit school and their jobs. The loss of freedom destroyed Annie's spirit. She longed to be able to see her friends and play outside. The de Leeuw's decided to hide when they realized the Nazi's would be taking them to concentration camps. The entire family could not hide in the same location, so they split up. Annie's mother was ill, so she remained in a hospital. Annie and her sister, Sini, hid upstairs in the Oosterveld's farmhouse. Her father and sister, Raquel, stayed with a retired minister. Annie and Sini were cramped in a very small space, which was incredibly cold in the winter. The girls often spent many days in bed to keep warm. Annie was often forced to walk back and forth across the room to strengthen her legs because they began to grow irregularly. The girls had to hide in a closet for days on end when Nazi soldiers used the Oosterveld's house as an office. The Oosterveld's took excellent care of Annie and Sini and became quite attached. The entire time spent in the room was stressful and depressing for the girls. They were only allowed to go outside a few times during the their time in hiding. Annie and her family hid for two years before they could return to their home. The sacrifice the Oosterveld's made to save the girls is incredibly moving. The strength and perseverance Annie and Sini possess will inspire readers for years to come.

The Upstairs Room
I really enjoyed The Upstairs Room by Johanna Reiss. It was one of the very few books that has kept me pulled in and interested the entire time. The characters were real, and the story gave distinct detail about their physical appearances and individual personalities. It shows the struggle of a Jewish family trying to stay together, and most of all stay alive. You feel as though you are right there with the characters though every life threatening account with the German Nazi's.
The people who will like this book are individuals that may be interested in World War II, or the history of Germany and Holland during the 1940's. This could also be intriguing for people who enjoy reading about life struggles and how people have overcome them. ... Read more

Book Description

The story of a boy who had the persistence to master navigation in the days when men sailed by "log, lead, and lookout," and who authored The American Practical Navigator, "the sailor's Bible." ... Read more

Reviews (32)

Avast! Here's a great story!
This book is a keeper!
If you like the Horatio Hornblower series and such good tales of the sea, then I feel quite sure that you will not be disappointed with this easy-to-read excellent account of Nat Bowditch.
When I read a great book like this, I want it to go on for considerably longer, and this book made me think of the Hornblower series by Forester and of Midshipman Quinn by Showell Styles...I could easily see it rewritten into a mighty tome or series but, alas!, 'tis not to be.....
I can recommend this book heartily to all fans of the sea...!

Carry on Mr Bowditch
This book is called Carry on Mr Bowditch it is about a boy named nat who wants to go to harvard for collage.but his father wants him to go to boating school so he would be a sailer.In the begining of the book Nat's father got hot by a reaf that was in the water .then the boat sank.In this story Nat wrote a book about the skill of navagation.Nat makes a voyage but somehting happend ,amd if you read this book you will find out what will happen and if you read this book you will find out.I recamend this book for peple who like the sea and adventure

Carry On, Mr. Bowditch
This book takes place in the 1780s and is about a boy named Nat Bowditch. Nat is great at figures and he has great perseverance. Nat has just been taken out of school to help his dad make barrels for ships. But he wasn't good at it at all. So his dad got him indentured for 9 years at Ropes and Hodges. Afterwards he went on a ship and found out a new way to work lunars. After his first ship ride he went on several others and found over 2,000 mistakes in a book written by scientist. But don't get to atached to the characters.

Carry on Mr. Bowditch
I am a reader at...school. I liked this book because the auther realy gets into the detail. It teaches you alot about sailing and it feels that you are actualy in the book. When you read it it seems like it would be a nonfiction book but it is actualy a fiction book. If you like reading nonfiction books or books that teach you new words, then you will like this book. The author is Jean Lee Latham. If you liked Holes then you probully will like this book because there are lots of adventures.
The book is about a boy named Nat Bowditch. He wants to go to Havered. He learns lots of things about sailing. He goes on many voyages. During the voyages he had lots of adventures. There are lots of sad things that happen in nat's life.

My Favorite Kids Book
I first read this beautifully and simply written book when I was about ten and it immediately became my favorite.I identified with Nathaniel Bowditch in many respects - my name is also Nathaniel and I also love math - but still he amazed me with his intense desire to learn and persevere through struggles.

I learned alot from this story.I was fascinated by Nathaniel Bowditch's amazing brilliance (writing an almanac as a teenager and doing insanely complex math problems in his head), his hard work (studying multiple languages from books), and his humility (teaching sailors math and navigation, giving them confidence in themselves).Amazingly, he did all this though his life was full of struggles.For me, someone who already liked to learn, this story powerfully reinforced just how exciting and valuable it is to gain more knowledge and then pass it on.

Today, about 10 years since I first read this book, I still love to read it.The title of "favorite book" has since passed on, but something still excites me about the impact one man can have because he dedicated himself to learning and to helping others through what he learned.That's a message young people, especially those already excited about learning, need to hear.And that's why those kids need to read this book. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Introduce Your Kids to Art - Great Book!
As a mom of a preschooler (and baby), I'm always looking for ways to expose my 3-year-old son to great art without boring him, and this book is perfect! I've bought other art-related kids books, and they were not captivating like this one is. The text has gentle rhyme, and my son really got into the different paintings. The "Biographical Notes" section has more information on the artists if you've forgotten your college Art History (like me!), and my son found it interesting, too. I really liked the message at the end of the book, "...And nobody sees the world like you." I plan on making this book my new gift for everyone -- for new babies, for my son's friends' birthday gifts, holidays, etc. It would be great for kids of all ages, really. You will love this book! ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (4)

Beautiful artwork!!!
First, the artwork in this book is simply stellar. My son is 3 and has several dozen story books. We also take him to the library regularly and we've read him several dozen others now. Of all the story books I've seen, the art in this is the most amazing. Worth the twice the price simply for the art.

Also, this is not so much a story, as it is an epic poem of The Babe's love for baseball, and his desire to compete and excell. While there are narrative texts on each page that address some statistics and history of Ruth's career, these don't really make a story when you put them together. I'm a rabid San Francisco Giants fan, and I get even more of a sense of what a great player the Babe was from watching Barry Bonds playing baseball... both are the premier players of their era, simultaneously feared and respected, yet for different reasons.

Most importantly, my son simply loves this book. And, that's the most important criteria in evaluating a children's book in my opinion. When we read it together, I'll pause at a key point in the story/poem and he'll fill in the last word or three of the line; we've read it so many times he practically has memorized it from hearing it so often. This book is a beautiful and excellent combination of poetry and art about baseball.

Lyrical pictures of the Babe hitting a home run
When I first saw the cover painting by Mike Wimmer on "Home Run" I was not sure if it was supposed to be Babe Ruth. In his glory days the Bambino had a body like an inverted pyramid, with those broad shoulders tapering down to those thin little ankles and tiny feet, and there are some paintings in "Home Run: The Story of Babe Ruth" that do not especially look like the Babe. However, those are few and far between.

The text by Robert Burleigh comes in two parts. First, there is the book's narrative, a sort of lyric ode to the Babe that combines his discovering his "pretty" swing as a boy with a home run he hits off of a Red Sox pitcher years later. Second, under the narrative text there is the back of a faux-baseball card (from "The World Champion" series), that has biographical and statistical details about Ruth.

However, the centerpiece of this book is the time at bat that takes up the last half of the book. Earlier there is a striking painting of Ruth launching a pop-up; the view is from behind the catcher who has taken off his mask, all eyes turned to the sky and the small white ball rising into the sky. Wimmer offers several unique and compelling perspectives during the home run episode as well: the Red Sox first baseman craning his neck to follow the flight of the unseen ball, the eyes of Ruth watching it disappear into the stands, the Babe's foot on first base as the pitcher stands dejectedly on the mound.

There is a quote on the back-flap of the dust-jacket that says the "Chicago Sun-Times" described Wimmer's illustrations as "reminiscent of some of Normal Rockwell's best." Certainly there are strong similarities, especially in the painting of the fans reacting to Ruth's homerun. But with his emphasis on key details to tell the story Wimmer offers a decidedly different perspective from Rockwell that I really liked. Ultimately, it is the artwork rather than the narrative that makes this a lyrical book.

For the child who loves baseball and has two left feet.
Purchased this for my nephew who is overweight, uncoordinated and loves playing baseball. Reading this to him increased his joy of the game and gave him confidence to keep trying to improve his own skills. Taught him to do best with the skills he had right now and even how to deal with successes in life. This level of understanding was terrific for children and adult alike. Excellent book for sharing special time with children.

A book that lives in the moment
This books opens with the Great Bambino as a child. Remindingyou of your own innocent childhood. It then leaps to his professinalcareer where it slows down to one at bat. (the moment) It is written with a grace for detail that makes you feel like part of the story. You hear the crack of the bat, feel the dirt under your spikes, the "soft hardness of the base", and hear the defening sound of the crowd. This book brings tears to my eyes everytime I read it to my daughter and my son. Maybe one day they will read it to their children and know why. END ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (7)

Excellent Way to Get More Acuainted with the Great Artists!
It was interesting to read about the eccentric personality characteristics of the great artists and how they found their specialty areas of creativity. I especially enjoyed learning more about Cassatt and O'Keefe and how they encountered a lot of criticism during their time and how they were not afraid to be themselves and BE GREAT! I will share this book with my son when he is ready for it. Right now he is only nine, and too much into sports(ha.)

Ansel Adams should have been included.

Jeffrey McAndrew
author of "Our Brown Eyed Boy"

A New Way to Perceive the Lives of the Artists
Most people can name at least a couple famous artists and cite some examples of their best-known works. But have you ever wondered what's really behind all that painting, sculpting, and drawing? Kathleen Krull's book Lives of the Artists: Masterpieces, Messes (and What the Neighbors Thought) gives an in-depth view into the humor, tragedy, and mystery in twenty artists' lives, as well as the gossip inspired by their peculiar lifestyles. Carefully researched, this humorous biography travels throughout the centuries, offering basic facts along with interesting tidbits and anecdotes about artists from Leonardo Da Vinci to Georgia O'Keeffe and beyond. It also includes interesting backround information behind each one's artistic works as well as creative and eye-catching illustrations by Kathryn Hewitt. This entertaining book allows readers to get to know the world's greatest artists and their artworks through each one's unique and engaging story.
The book is well organized into chapters each focusing on the life of one individual artist. The author skillfully and humorously connects information about artists' personalities, preferences, and lifestyles with how they affected their most well known artworks. It recreates each one's position in history, telling how the artists were seen by the general population in their day, or even their reputation among curious or superstitious neighbors. Readers will be able to see for themselves that famous artists were real people who did mess up once in a while. The author explains a time when Leonardo Da Vinci decided to try out a new painting method, saying, "The technique resulted in disaster...(he hadn't read all the way through to the part that said "don't try this on walls")."
The author's voice helps compliment the content in several ways. Kathleen Krull's words strike a tone that is warm, chatty, and friendly, making you feel as if she were talking with you in the same room. Her gossip extends not only to the basic facts but also to many specific details abou the artists' lives. Showing the passion and tragedy in his life, she remarks about the artist Vincent van Gogh,"Van Gogh imposed a condition of near starvation on himself and would go for days without food so he could afford to buy art supplies." In addition, every sarcastic or humorous comment made on the part on the author helps readers to feel they are getting to know an actual person rather than a cold, vague historical figure.
The author also ensured that the book would appeal to an audience of both children and adults. The words and explanations are engaging and humorous and immediately capture your interest, yet the vocabularly is not too difficult for children. The full-page color illustrations are vivid, clever, and bring to life each artist for the young and old alike. Because the book gives more information about each artist than is generally known, it is sure to benefit and interest a wide range of audiences.
Readers of all ages will definitely become hooked on this fact-filled and entertaining biography. Lives of the Artists: Masterpieces, Messes (and What the Neighbors Thought) retells the one of a kind stories of each of the world's most famous artists, blending historical facts with humor and captivating details. Most importantly it allows readers to recognize each individual artist through an attractive mix of their achievements, lives, and unique personalities.

My six year old and I love this book!
Reading a chapter from this book has become a bedtime ritual for my daughter and me. My daughter happens to be very interested in art and this book gives her an idea of what it's like to actually be an artist. Both the illustrations and text bring these artists to life more than any other childrens or adult book I have ever seen. This is one of the few books that we both enjoy reading over and over again. I wish the authors would do another volume of artists. Meanwhile I'm ordering another book by this author/illustrator combination.

An Amazing Adventure into the Private Lives of Artists
This book would make an outstanding addition to the reading list of any art lover. If you love finding out the gossipy trivia about some well-known and should-be-well-known artists, that this is the book you MUST buy. Really gorgeous illustrations by a fantastically talented artist herself, Kathryn Hewitt

An interesting cross selection of artists
"It's not what an artist does that counts, but what he is" - Picasso, p. 56

The book contains 16 Chapters on the following 17 artists in birth year order: Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519), Michelangelo Buonarroti (1475-1564), Peter Bruegel (1525?-1569), Sofonisba Anguissola (1532-1625), Rembrandt van Rijn (1606-1669), Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849), Mary Cassatt (1845-1926), Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890), Kathe Kollwitz (1867-1945), Henri Matisse (1869-1954), Pablo Picasso (1881-1973), Marc Chagall (1887-1985), Marcel Duchamp (1887-1968), Georgia O'Keeffe (1887-1986), William H. Johnson (1901-1970), Salvador Dali (1904-1989), Isamu Noguchi (1904-1988), Diego Rivera (1886-1957) & Frida Kahlo (1907-1954), Andy Warhol (1928-1987).

It contains a variety of gossipy tidbits about the artists' lives. The cross selection of artists is an interesting combination. Krull introduced me to three artists of which I was not familiar (Anguissola, Kollwitz and Johnson). As a result Krull has whet my appetite and I will now seek out further information. Hewett"s illustrations are entertainly and cleverly done. I am especially particular to her rendition of Hokusai (he is wearing a kimino with both "The Wave" and "Mt. Fuji" on it).

I'm not convinced that the book is intended for young readers (ages 9-12). The gossip is on occasion adult in content. No actual prints of any of the artist's paintings are included, which was a surprise given the high cost of the book. This proves cruelly aggravating given that Krull references select paintings with accompanying notes.

Additional tidbits missing from the book: Dali did the dream sequence in Alfred Hitchcock's "Spellbound" starring Gregory Peck and Ingrid Bergman. Chagall's "The Dead Man" was the inspiration for the title of the Broadway play "Fiddler on the roof." Rivera caused a scandal when he painted the portrait of Lenin in a Rockefeller Center mural in '33. In addition, he used his clout to enable Leon Trotsky to live in Mexico. Two years later Kahlo introduced Trotsky to her friend, a Stalinist agent, who killed him with an ice-axe. ... Read more