Book Description

Award-winning author Walter Dean Myers presents the amazing story of Muhammad Ali¹s childhood, his rise as a champion, his politics, and his battles against Parkinson¹s disease. Packed with dramatic black-and-white photos, this critically acclaimed biography is the perfect choice for both young adult sports fans and fans of Walter Dean Myers in general. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Determination + Talent = Champion
Muhammed Ali may not have been the biggest, meanest boxer of all time, but he definitely has to be one of the most determined athletes ever to set foot in a ring. That is why Myers, like Ali himself, refers to the boxer as "the greatest." Through easy reading, Walter Dean Myers paints a picture of what life was life for working class blacks in the near South (Louisville, KY) in the 1950's. He describes the fighters who came before Ali (the heroes like Joe Louis and Archie Moore), and goes into detail in describing both the person and the boxing style of Ali's opponents--Floyd Patterson, Sonny Liston, Joe Frazier, George Foreman and others). Of course, Myers also details the mental strategies and physical competency of Ali. It is here that the reader realizes that much of Ali's game was fought outside the ring, with not only his next opponent, but with the press, the public, and the government. The subject of the war in Viet Nam, the military draft, the Nation of Islam, the skewing of the military to induct more minorities, and the subject of 'conscientious objection' are all handled in an introductory fashion, which will give young readers a sense of the social history of the period without the ho-hum of a history book. Walter Dean Myers' book, The Greatest, also dissects the boxing industry, where young talent is often beaten to a senseless pulp for the sake of audiences, public approval and a very few dollars. I have already recommended this book to several students who think a career in professional athletics could be within their grasp. Myers does an excellent job of conveying the fact that the young boxer from Louisville was the greatest in his determination to win, not because of his physical ability, but because of his mental agility. The one negative trait of Muhammed Ali which Myers noted was the way he insulted his opponents. His vicious slurring of his competitors, especially some of the black fighters, set the stage for the trash-talking which is now rampant in sports, professional and amateur, alike. He may have been first in a long list of other traits, but this one is nothing to be proud of. It was the beginning of a very negative type of competitive spirit which has now permeated sports, school, music, and the very fiber of today's society. This book will intrigue a variety of students in middle school. It is easy to read, with enough black and white photographs and large page margins to attract even reluctant readers. The book includes an Index (very small print); a list of Photo Credits; a Bibliography; and a Fight Chronology. It is a good introduction to what actually goes on in professional athletics, and appropriate for students, grade 5 and up.

THE GREATEST MUHAMMAD ALI
The book"THE GREATEST MUHAMMAD ALI" is one of the best books ihave ever read. When I first read this book I coudn't put it down. this book only took me a week to read and also you get information you never herd of like I never knew that Muhammad Ali's real name is Cassius Clay. When Muhammad was young he used to get beat up and his bike was stolen. After he got beat up he started taking boxing lessions. He lost most of his boxing matches when he was young. In the book you lean about others like Joe Louis and Sugar Ray Robinson Ali never misted a practus. The reason I liked the book is because I took boxing lessons and now Iknow how to protect myself if I need to. Also you get good information on the boxers Ali's life. In the book they say that Ali has skills of most of thebest fighters that ever lived.Reading this book helped me change the way I look at things like the way I treat people andto be tough competitor at sports I play. It also helped me see how his life was as a African American boxer. I'm glad I found this awesome book to read because it made me want to be a boxer.

A Great book
This story is a portrayal of a young boy named Cassius Clay who grows into one of the greatest boxer's of all time. Walter Dean Myers presents the amazing story of Ali's life and his rise as a champion, his politics, and his battle against Parkinson's disease. It is a story of determination, energy, pride, and strength. From a daring young boxer with disease, Myers covers Ali's life with prowess and honesty. Ali's accomplishments, both in and out of the ring, present him as a man of principal, willing to take risks to achieve his goals.
Ali was a young man with a lot of boxing talent who grew up in Louisville, Kentucky. Raised by his grandmother, Ali possessed a work ethic of none other. Although Ali was a great fighter, racism and disouragement made it hard for Ali to achieve his goals.
If tou choose to read The Greatest you will experience fast paced action, crisp writing, photographic events and personalities, and vivid fight scenes. Ali followed his heart and became a symbol respected by all races, religions, and ideologies. Ali was the world heavyweight champion four times and may be the greatest boxer ever to step foot in the ring.
Delving into the civil rights and the Nation of Islam, Concientios objector status during the Vietnam war, and the danger of boxing. Myers presents a man of courage and inspiration. The story gets in depth with Ali's fight against Parkinson's disease and how he fought in the ring. "Float like a butterfly and sting like a bee" was Ali's famous line. He was well known for his cocky attitude and he was also the center of attention.
Ali's story is a great one, thus, that is why he is the greatest. I would reccommend this story for anyone to read, it is really a great book.

Perfect For A 13 Year Old & Under
This is a perfect book for a kid 14 or 13 years old and younger - it's a fantastic introduction to Muhammad Ali - I just bought it for my friends son - he's 12 - not that familiar with Muhammad Ali - just a basic knowledge of the myth and legend - he knows "Float Like a Butterfly - Sting Like A Bee!"

This is a great way to show a youngster that in addition to being the Greatest Of All Time that he was (and is) one of the most influential, courages and important figure of the 1960's and up -

It gently shows and explains the race issues of the 60's without overwhelming a child or blasting it in their face - it's very difficult for a kid these days to understand that as little as 40 years ago (which is actually life times to a kid) that if you were black then you had to sit at the back of the bus - or couldn't drink from certain water fountains or had to "know you're place" and how Muhammad Ali shattered that mold - I'm hoping that this actually creates a dialogue with parent and child - anyway - it shows Muhammad as the Champ both in and out of the ring.

The book goes over some of the famous fights and rivalry's - from Liston to Frazier - once again I found myself excited about the blow by blows of these fights - no matter how many times I read it I'm just awe struck about the Rumble in the Jungle -

I highly recommend this for any child as a great introduction to The Greatest Of All Time - Muhammad Ali!

Not the Best
The Greatest Muhammad Ali written by "Walter Dean Myers" tells you about how it was for a black man to grow up in the racism and be successful. He did so well all over the world that he got respect from the white crowd. It tells you all the struggles he had while he was fighting and how he went from Cassius Clay to Muhammad Ali; also how he took it when he got Parkinson's disease. This man was a phenomenon in boxing and you learn that by reading this book. I would not buy the book but get it for a little while from the library. ... Read more

Book Description

Hans Christian Andersen, the Danish storyteller whose fairy tales are known all over the world, was also a gifted artist. He made hundreds, perhaps thousands, of paper cuttings of swans, clowns, toy theaters, windmills, angels, and other whimsical images. Often he made the paper cuttings while telling a story, then gave them to the children listening to him.In this inspired biography, Beth Wagner Brust tells the story of Andersen as an artist who used his many talents to escape the poverty into which he was born and who entertained others with not only his famous stories but also his innovative and original art. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great
Not only is the author great (I know her!) but this book explores an interesting topic. Those paper cuttings are unreal! I mean they are real, but they are so amazing! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

What King George III thought about the American Revolution
King George III of England was a tyrant. Thomas Jefferson said so when he wrote the Declaration of Independence and that was why we had the American Revolution and the rest was history. Except that most elementary school American History textbooks have very little to saw about King George III, a defect that Jean Fritz seeks to correct in this comic but historical view of the famous tyrant. Young readers will learn that King George III collected clocks and ate sauerkraut (the house of Hanover hailed from Germany after all), became a king when he was only twenty-two, married Princess Charlotte and had sixteen children, and tried to be a frugal monarch when it came to managing the money of his country (they are some very interesting examples of how he did this). Consequently, Fritz gives his readers an entirely different view of the taxation (without representation) that was a key catalyst for American independence.

"Can't You Make Them Behave, King George?" is one of a series of books by Fritz that teach young students about the major figures and events of the American Revolution (e.g., "Will You Sign Here, John Hancock?", "Why Don't You Get a Horse, Sam Adams?). There are historical facts and easy humor in equal measure in this volume, but I think that the most important aspect of the book remains that it gives us the British perspective on the American war for independence. There is also a footnote about the King's problems with porphyria, which will be important if young readers are interested enough in the life of this kill to check out the film version of "The Madness of King George," the only film to feature George III in a prominent role. This book has pictures by Tomie De Paola in keeping with the tone of the book, which shows that even if George III was a tyrant, that did not mean he was a bad person. After all, this was a king who made buttons.

it's fun to read and you learn a lot from it
I learned all kinds of things about King George, Queen Charlotte and others. It really helped me with my research on the Revolutionary war. In this book you get to learn the funny things about King George and things that happened during his time.

Historically funny and accurate
Jean Fritz has created many fabulous books for children. "Can't You Make Them Behave, King George?" is one of my favorites. It shows the beginning of the American Revolution from the eyes of King George. The book is humerous and historically correct. Kids and adults will enjoy reading it together! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Young doodlers and dreamers of the world, take heart--the famous Dr.Seuss, creator of Whos and Sneetches, was a doodler and dreamer, too.Kathleen Krull's engaging picture-book biography of Ted Geisel, the realDr. Seuss, takes us from his early childhood on FairfieldStreet in Springfield, Massachusetts, to the time when he's 22 years oldin Greenwich Village and just starting to think he might make a go of it as a person who draws flying cows. Krull tells a lively story,carefully including details that help us understand how Seuss becameSeuss, from playground injustice (Geisel was a German American and WorldWar I loomed large) to his love for Krazy Kat comics.

Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher, who also illustrated Seuss's My Many ColoredDays, cast Seuss's childhood in a nostalgic light with lovely,old-fashioned paintings. A four-page section in the back picks up Seuss's story again,taking us to 1937 when he launches his children's book career with And to Think That I Saw Iton Mulberry Street and all the way to his death in 1991. Acomplete list of Seuss's books and recommendations for further research closes this fascinating look at one of America's most belovedcreators of children's books. (Ages 8 and older) --Karin Snelson ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Good reading skills or parental assistance required
It's hard to know where to place this biography of Ted Geisel: Boy On Fairfield Street reads with the action and drama of fiction, yet is a bona-fide account of how Geisel grew up to become Dr. Seuss. Paintings by Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher accompany a lively discussion of how Geisel got his ideas. Good reading skills or parental assistance required for this in-depth biographical survey.

Unique Children will Love this book!
Do you know a child who feels out of step with the rest of their class? How about one that seems to annoy their teacher because they see the world differently? This biography was made for them!

Dr. Suess seemed to frustrate his teachers as his drawings were so different from all the other children in his class - in this book, readers will learn that he reveled in his uniqueness and embraced his unusual view of the world. As a result, he was able to find success as a cartoonist -- though it did take time.

The biography isn't just for little kids, but could be gifted to any "child" who needs to feel proud of their uniqueness.

Do you hear a drum beat that no one else can hear? Be glad you do -- you might grow up to be as successful as Dr. Suess.

Seuss-on!
A great biography for the under-12 crowd, The Boy on Fairfield Street is beautifully illustrated and tenderly written. From Ted's experiences with bullies to a humiliating experience with former President Theodore Roosevelt, Krull has shown the reader Ted's common failings as well as his extraordinary perseverance. Disappointing, however, is the short-stop ending just after Ted moves to New York at 22, before any of his famous children's books were written. There is an additional four page narrative but it is not fully illustrated as the rest of the story is and may leave some children cold unless they have help to get through it. Overall, a wonderful book that is just perfect for a celebration of Dr. Seuss's birthday on March 2 or a celebration of this year's Seussentennial. ... Read more

Book Description

Photobiography of early twentieth-century photographer and schoolteacher Lewis Hine, using his own work as illustrations. Hines's photographs of children at work were so devastating that they convinced the American people that Congress must pass child labor laws. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Hate school? Your life could be so much worse...
Freedman has collected dozens of black and white photographs taken by Lewis Hine during the first decades of the twentieth century. Hine worked as an investigational photographer for the National Child Labor Committee (NCLC). The NCLC wanted the United States government to pass laws concerning child labor, and thought that photos of the work children did would be more effective persuaders than mere speeches and statistics. Hine traveled the nation with his camera taking photographs, sometimes despite risk to his person.

The text of the book serves partly as a brief biography of Lewis Hine, and partly as explanatory backdrop for the scenes in the photographs. Freeman gives enough background information to put the images in their context, but not so much data as to overwhelm the reader. The machines, tools and environments are so strange to the modern eye that without clarification, many pictures would be meaningless.

The most shocking photographs in the collection are of the young boys involved in the coalmines. The filth on their faces, hands and clothing is astonishing. By comparison, the dangers and deplorable conditions of working in a cotton mill are not as readily apparent as those of working in a coal mine. However, reading Freeman's text exposes the dangers of moving machinery and smothering lint and humidity not so clear in the photos.

The book concludes by sharing the changes in child labor laws that Hine's photographs helped bring about, as well as information on the child labor situation of today.

This book is full of eye opening and shocking information for the unaware. School may be hard, but without child labor laws things could be so much worse.

The meaning of tough
...

This book weaves Hine's story together with his photographs of kids working in Maine's sardine canneries, Texas cotton fields, New York laundries, Tennessee and Georgia cotton mills and in textile mills all over the U.S. south. He took some of the most haunting photos of dark tunnels and grimy breaker rooms in Pennsylvania coalmines. He went inside glass factories, to farms, and onto city streets at 1 a.m. to photograph children distributing newspapers and 1 p.m. to watch them shining boots.

...

If your kids occasionally gripe that they have it tough, get them this book and show them what the word means. Alyssa A. Lappen

an powerful book full of visual and written imagery
Children and adults are both intrigued by this wonderful photo documentation of the history of immigrant children working in the United States. Lewis Hine's pictures tell the story and Russell Freedman's words add a greater depth to this sometimes sad yet beautiful celebration of children at work during the early 20th century.

Convincing and exciting yet sad and true
"Kids At Work" is a great book to tell and show the children of today how hard it was back then. Lewis Hine takes most of the credit. Thanks to his great photos The Declaration Of Dependence was passed. It stated that kids would be dependent and should live a normal kids life. Which concisted of going to school, being able to play freely with other kids ect.. We the children of today thank Lewis Hine for giving us a free life. I also give Ressell Freedman credit for following Mr. Hine and writing this spectacular and amizing book. As far as I am concerned Hine and Freedman greatest authors of all time!!

The "lows' and "Highs" of a courageous photographer
Every year when I take books to schools I always include this one. First, it shows today's children what their life may have been like if Hine and other courageous people hadn't worked to get child labor laws passed. I also like to introduce students to biographies of people who made a difference but were not big names like A. Lincoln and M. Jordan. Though the tone of the book is somber- and the faces in his photographs haunting. I always end on a "high" note- the courage of Hines to climb with a heavy load up to the top of the Empire State building as it was being built. ... Read more

Book Description

Our original Big Book of U.S. Presidents has sold more than 200,000 copies! It was also a Scholastic Book Club Selection, and continues to be a perennial favorite in the $9.98 Courage Children's line. This updated edition features a revised profile of George W. Bush, plus a look ahead to our next president. In fact, it will be published less than 3 months after the 2004 election, close to inauguration, and will be one of the first books to feature a profile of the newest president. This fascinating introduction to U.S. government includes famous quotes, achievements, and a detailed timeline for quick reference to historical eras and events, plus more than 50 illustrations.

Full-color illustrations ... Read more

Book Description

Join the Ingalls family as they celebrate little Laura’s fifth birthday in the Big Woods of Wisconsin. There are special presents from everyone, and that night Laura falls asleep to the merry music of Pa’s fiddle. Renée Graef’s enchanting full-color illustrations, inspired by Garth Williams’s classic artwork, bring Laura and her family lovingly to life in our tenth My First Little House Book, adapted from Laura Ingalls Wilder’s beloved storybooks. It’s a Little House birthday to remember!

... Read more

Reviews (1)

My Daughter Loved It
I gave this book to my 3 yr old for her birthday and she really liked it. She has virtually all the First books. She loves the drawings and I like the no playing on Sunday part, my daughter and I have a discussion everytime we read. I highly recommend this and other First Little House Books for little ones. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The story of Galileo is at once inspiring and troubling. The brilliant astronomer was a celebrated scientist who was showered with honors and patronage until his greatest discovery--that the earth circled the sun rather than the other way around--proved to be too much of a threat to prevailing orthodoxy. Peter Sis, author of the wonderful children's book Follow the Dream: The Story of Christopher Columbus, tells Galileo's tale for children ages 8 and older. A brilliant and sophisticated illustrator and a sensitive storyteller, he traces Galileo's life from childhood to his final days as a prisoner of the church. (Click to see asample spread. © 1996 by Peter Sis. Reprinted by permission of the publisher, Farrar, Straus and Giroux.) (Ages 8 and older) ... Read more

Reviews (16)

Its not just another picture book
In this amusing and insightful book, Peter Sis has attracted more then one audience. Starry Messenger (a Caldecott Honor book) tells the story of Galileo Galilei and some of his accomplishments. The actual story is interesting, but the illustrations are amazing! His pictures are detailed and
intricate, including every possible detail the mind can imagine. On the page introducing Galileo, perhaps fifty babies wrapped in blankets are pictured. On each blanket is their future occupation. You see a baker, a priest, a farmer, a knight, and a barrelmaker among many others. But Galileo is one that stands out. His blanket is dark blue and covered with
white stars, foreshadowing his remarkable life.

The Starry Messenger is a picture book, but don't let that label fool you. Most adults will find the facts about Galileo written in the margins interesting, and as I have, the pictures astounding. Words cannot do this book justice, its marvelous work of art!

A children's book about Galileo clearly for older readers
Yes, "Starry Messenger" is one of those children's books that is going to be over the heads of most children, which is ironic given that it is about a man who wanted to understand the meaning of the stars. Certainly the life of Galileo Galilei is worthy of being taught to children, but Peter Sis has geared this one a bit too high, as I think these reviews clearly indicate. After all, few young readers will appreciate that the inclusion of quotations from Galileo's "Discoveries and Opinions of Gailelo," although they will be more inclined to spin the book around to read cursive lines of tiny print written in a spiral by Sis. Fortunately, most children have much better eyes than I do now a days.

The chief charm of "Starry Messenger" for me is the artwork, which certain suggests both the Old World and Olden Days. Several of the illustrations remind me of Medieval and Renaissance artwork I have seen in the past. Again, I am not sure younger readers can really appreciate some of the details Sis puts into some of this illustrations, especially the three dealing with the his trial before the Pope's court. This is a shame because these are pretty powerful illustrations. Ideally, somewhere down the road kids who learn about Galileo and the example of his trial ("But it does move") will return to this book and better be able to appreciate it.

Nice Artwork, Misleading History
This children's book about Galileo has very beautiful illustrations, but the history leaves much to be desired. It's a perfect example though of how myths about the past take on a life of their own independent of historical evidence or historical context. Sis offers another variation on the "warfare" of science versus religion with Galileo representing the modern rational scientist (which he was not) and his opponents in the Church representing ignorant, dogmatic tradition. Of course the reality was much more complex, especially considering that Galileo did not have proof that the earth moved. This book shows why children are so often misinformed from an early age for the sake of telling a good story.

Definately for older children
This book is beautifully illustrated and written but was given to my daughter when she was 4 years old by an ambitious uncle and although she is quite interested in science, at age 5 it is still way over her head. I would have to agree with some of the other reviewers, I would recommend it for much older children interested in the subject.

May be more for adults than children?
Although the illustrations are delightful and fun to explore I was disappointed with the book. I bought it to give to my 7 year old grand daughter and I have not givent it to her yet. I feel this is a book written for someone who already knows a lot about Gallileo. Those who already know a lot will enjoy the illustrations, those who need to learn will miss the message. ... Read more

Book Description

Building on the success of such titles as Toy Story: The Essential Guide and Dinosaur: The Essential Guide, the DK creative team has been given unlimited access to Disney's considerable archives to chart the development of the Disney Company, from its early days in the 1920s to the present. Disney: The Ultimate Guide includes a wealth of images -- from specially photographed memorabilia to familiar scenes from favorite Disney moments -- to create a visual experience of the number one name in family entertainment. Disney's most-loved films are the focus of this charming collectible, but all facets of Disney's universe are represented in this wonderful volume. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

An excellent visual survey
Disney: The Ultimate Visual Guide will make the perfect family Christmas present for families already interested in Disney's wonders. Disney has touched lives for decades: Disney: The Ultimate Visual Guide provides an excellent visual survey of the extent of the animated creator's works and the logical progression of Disney talents and creations. A fine oversized picture book the entire family will enjoy. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The creators of George Washington's Teeth unhinge the jaws of history to examine the mouth of America's first president, tracking the poor man's dental woes as he gallops to war, crosses the Delaware, and, with only two teeth left, takes his place as leader of the country. Washington was plagued by black, rotting teeth from the time he was 22, losing about one a year until he was nearly "toofless" and had to have his first dentures made from a hippotamus tusk (that's right, not wood!). Poets Deborah Chandra and Madeleine Comora begin their quirky historical tale at a lively clip: "The Revolutionary War/ George hoped would soon be won,/ But another battle with his teeth/ Had only just begun..." Indeed. Evidently he was losing teeth even as he crossed the Delaware: "George crossed the icy Delaware/ With nine teeth in his mouth./ In that cold and pitchy dark,/ Two more teeth came out!" (Cleverly, illustrator Brock Cole mimics Emanuel Leutze's famous painting "Washington Crossing the Delaware," making Washington seem more uncomfortably tight-lipped than dignified.) The story ends happily ever after with the crafting of a nice new pair of ivory false teeth that allow George to dance around the ballroom through the night. Truth be told, however, he would be deeply troubled by his teeth until the day he died. A four-page, illustrated historic timeline of Washington's life (and mouth) completes this carefully researched, very funny, charmingly illustrated picture book that works to humanize a larger-than-life historical figure and in turn, history itself. Brilliant! (Ages 7 and older) --Karin Snelson ... Read more

Reviews (4)

New Perspective
An intersting new perspective on George Washington. It makes him seem more human to children. Young children are intrigued to have the myth of wooden teeth squelched. Ther book provides a historical timeline in the back. This is a great book for children of ALL ages. Even I, an older child and teacher, learned some things. I had no idea our first president was so obsessed with his teeth and that he had such an active role in the solutions to his dental problems. Highly recommended.

Everything young kids will want to know about George's teeth
There are lots of ways of chronicling the change in the national temperament, and one of them is that when I was a kid it was the story of George Washington chopping down the cherry tree that was what stood out. However, the inquiring minds of the nation's youth today are now going to be more intrigued by the legend the first President had wooden teeth, which is precisely how Deborah Chandra and Madeleine Comora, aided and abetted by Brock Cole's pictures, manages to teach young readers a nice little lesson in the finer points of historiography.

Told in four line verse, "George Washington's Teeth" relates an imaginative set of encounters between General Washington and his dentist as the number of teeth in the mouth of the Father of Our Country decreases one by one over the years leading to Independence and the Presidency. Well, that is not entirely true since the authors have Washington losing two teeth the night be crossed the Delaware, but that left him with seven at that point in American history, which is a lucky number that fits the victory at Trenton. Eventually Washington is elected President, which is good, but has no teeth left, which is bad (especially when having your portrait painted). Fortunately, he comes up with a solution.

The first part of "George Washington's Teeth" is pretty whimsical, but then the last part of the book contains a time line of important events in George Washington's life from his own letters, diaries, and accounts. However, instead of dealing primarily with the highpoints of Washington's personal and political life, we learn about what historians have uncovered about his teeth: from having already lost two teeth by the time he was twenty two and the rest were all black and rotted, to eating pickled tripe because it does not hurt his teeth, and a letter requesting plaster of Paris to make some false teeth. These are the sort of bizarre historical details that can trick young readers into thinking history is fun.

There are even photographs of Washington's last sent of dentures. For the record, they were not wooden, but carved from hippopotamus ivory, the palate swaged from a sheet of gold, and springs made of coiled gold wire. Hopefully there are some other small nuggets of historical gold that Chandra and Comora, or like minded individuals, can turn to for books in the same spirit as this one.

WELL RESEARCHED AND WITTY
Here's the real truth on our first President's tooth! No, he didn't really have a set of wooden teeth. But, poor man, the Revolution wasn't the only battle he fought. We learn in this delightfully illustrated book that from the age of 24 he lost a tooth a year. Hence, by the time he reached the presidency there were only two teeth left. (Their whereabouts in his mouth seem to be unknown).

Based on historical records as well as Washington's letters and diaries this is a sprightly, fascinating account of the root of his problem (pun intended).

Youngsters will learn a bit of history as well as enjoy a rollicking good read. For instance, they'll learn about Washington crossing the Delaware, and that he then had only nine remaining teeth. He didn't have too many teeth to chatter during the frozen winter at Valley Forge as there were only seven left.

According to a letter Washington wrote he did at one time wear false teeth secured by wires hitched around his remaining teeth. His last set of dentures were made by a Dr. Greenwood, and carved from hippopotamus ivory.

This is a well researched book complete with excerpts from Washington's letters and diaries. Witty pastel illustrations enhance the text. For all ages.

- Gail Cooke

Fantastic fun, and history too!
Comora and Chandra have made a book to delight wordsmiths and history buffs alike. A verse narrative, each stanza informs by amusing. The great craft of the poem is never visible, but always in evidence -- none of the inane repetition that often informs such efforts is found here.
The whimsical illustrations are more than fine, and laid out to support and complement, rather than compete with the words.
A true delight for President's Day, and many others besides.
Bravi! ... Read more

Book Description

When he was born in 1879, Albert was a peculiarly fat baby with an unusually big and misshaped head. When he was older, he hit his sister, frustrated his teachers, and had few friends. But Albert"s strange childhood also included his brilliant capacity for puzzles and problem solving: the mystery of a compass"s swirling needle, the intricacies of Mozart"s music, the secrets of geometry—set his mind spinning with ideas. In fact, Albert Einstein"s ideas were destined to change the way we know and understand the world and our place in the universe. In spare, precise text filled with graceful detail and accompanied by sometimes humorous, sometimes lonely portraits, Don Brown introduces us to the less than magnificent beginnings of an odd boy out. The result is a tender rendering of the adventures of growing up for one of the most important thinkers of the twentieth century. ... Read more

Book Description

Test Your Tony IQ ...

Don't worry, this isn't some busted quiz that counts for anything. It's a simple true or false test about the most famous skateboarder in the world. There's a lot about Tony Hawk's life that might surprise you. He didn't skate out of the crib landing every trick he attempted. He had tons of ups and downs on and off his skateboard -- sometimes he landed and sometimes he slammed. Here he takes you behind the scenes of the skateboard world and describes what it's like to be Tony Hawk: Professional Skateboarder.

True or False

a. Tony Hawk ate chewing gum from between Steve Caballero's toes.

b. As a child, Tony was so competitive that he pelted his mother with tennis balls in order to win a tennis match.

c. Tony failed to land a trick for more than fifteen years.

d. Tony was such a spastic nightmare as a child that he was expelled from his preschool.

e. Tony was such a small kid that he looked three grades younger and was often picked on by bullies.

Reviews (7)

T ony Hawk
Envision being the only skateboarder in your school. Looking different, standing out like a sore thumb, and of all else you are the smallest kid in your grade. In Tony Hawk: Professional Skateboarder an autobiography by Tony Hawk you will hear about Tony's life from when he was born to his retirement from professional skateboarding at age 31.

Tony first started skating when he found an old, ratty skateboard under a heaping pile of junk in his garage, and thus began the career of one of the worlds best professional skaters. As Tony progresses through skating he sees all of the changes of skating from just being done by surfers when the waves were flat until present when skateboarding is as popular as it's ever been. This autobiography captures every aspect of Tony Hawk's life in such detail it feels as if Tony is sitting in front of you telling his whole life story.

Tony Hawk started out in a town in California and describes him self as a spaz kid. I guess this is what caused him to be kicked out of his pre-school. From here the book goes through his accomplishments such as making the Bones Brigade (a pro skateboarding team of the best skaters), landing the Mc Twist (a 540o spin with a flip in it), and one of the greatest and most recognizable accomplishment of all landing the 900 (a 900o spin). Tony's life also had some faults including having to call his son by his middle name after the release of the box office bomb Riley Hawk. Tony went through some tough times but came out on the brighter side. Except when his father died of cancer. Tony stopped skating for a while but was back on the ramps before long.

If you like a good biography or if you like skateboarding the tiniest bit this book is definitely for you. I rate this book 5 out of 5.

Flipping 360
This book will make you flip or do a 360!! This is a great book! This book is about the ups and downs of Tony Hawk's life. From road trips to just hanging out at the local skatepark. This book is an awesome book to read and very easy to understand. I reccomend this book to anyone who likes skateboarding. Find out what Tony's life is like by reading this awesome book.

Critic, Justin

Tony Hawk: Professional Skateboarder
This was an awesome book. I love this book, and I would recommend it to everyone. I hope that you guys will enjoy it as much as I did.

A wonderful book
There is nothing in this book that is improper for children. This is a book specifically designed for young readers with no foul language and nothing indecent. Tony is a very moral and respectable person and a great role model for children.

I liked it alot
My mom bought this for me and I just finished it.
It was really good. ... Read more

Reviews (20)

Annie Sullivan was a magic
True story of Annie Sullivan's life. She was a miracle and a godsend to Helen Keller - a deaf, blind and mute girl who had never been able to communicate with others before the arrival of Annie Sullivan. Annie was not only Helen Keller's teacher but also Helen's best friend. You will see Annie's struggling endeavor to teach Helen to speak and she was eventually successful. I highly recommend this book to you and your young children.

The Mirricle Worker
One day our teacher made us read the book Helen Keller's Teacher. At first it didn't seem like a good book.

When Annie was little her mother died and her father was a drunkard. She was half blind and her brother had tuberculosis in his hip. When they where young they went to Tweksbury. Jimmy died a while after he was there. A couple years after that Annie got a chance to go to school. She said, "Yes I would."

I think you should read it by your self or to your chidren.

pretty good,it needs more detail
Helen Keller's teacher was a very interesing book. The book is about Annie Sullivan ( Helen Keller's teacher) as a young girl. This biography discusses and observes how Annie from ayoung age goes blind from a disease she contracted when she rubbed her eyes and scrathed her cornias. She goes on to school and learns to read braille because she couldn't see. She has a very tough and hard life. She had surgery on her eyes and it was successful. She could see. She then, finished school and went to teach Helen. She could deal with the same tantrums Helen displayed because she herself acted that way out of frustration. This book taught me that it is a lot of hard work to teach a kid. You have to have a lot of patience. I recommend this book because it explains how people have to work for their accomplishments. This book had a lot of information on Annie Sullivan. This book was sad because Annie Sullivan didn't have a good childhood. There was lots of disappointments and sadness in her life. She overcame so many obstacles and ended up being an inspirational leader for Helen. I hope you will read this book and learn about Annie's childhood.

Wow this is a great biography
Hellen Kellers Teacher was a great book. I liked it because it had a lot of dialouge and lots of interesting facts I had never known That were about Annie her teacher. Annie was blind when she was little so she knew what Helen felt like. Most people concentrate on Helen but this is all about her teacher. I would recomend this to any 3rd 4th or 5th grader.

Swell book on a special good person!!!!
FINALLY!!!! A book on one of society's greatest hereos, Anne Sullivan! Oh, boy, was her childhood a NIGHTMARE!!!! Oh, she was so strong to endure so much; she endured more pain in twelve years than most human beings endure in her lifetime. Poor Anne! It's her dignity & courage that keeps her going throughout poverty, her dad's alcoholism & abuse, her mom's tragic death, her own lifelong battle with trachoma & being blind, her brother's horrible death in the poorhouse, the terrible conditions in the poorhouse...wow, and to think she survived that all & grew up to reach out to Helen Keller & other handicapped people! Wow, were her cousins, John & Statia so stupid to dump her & Jimmie in the poorhouse; I wish I could just blast those two idiots for not understanding that they needed love & support, not to criticize Anne & put her down. Well, it was their loss since Anne battle her problems & grew up to be a loving, wonderful person to be proud of. The books goes through her arrival at Perkins, her difficulty dealing with her wounded feelings when other students make fun of her & when a teacher humiliates her, then her working hard & graduating valedictorian of her class. The part with Helen also changed her life & I'm glad they found each other since their relationship blossomed into a beautiful lifelong friendship. The part after the Breakfast Table Battle where Anne struggles & wins at getting Helen to eat with a fork is touching as it describes how Anne went up to her room afterward & cried. Poor Anne didn't realize how out of control Helen was! I found Arthur, James, & Kate a little shallow & short-sighted; after Anne opens the world of language for Helen, at first they fell all over her with praise since she'd "tamed" Helen so she'd be easier to handle, but I get the feeling that they, esp. Mr. Keller felt threatened by Anne & the fact that Helen had a closer bond with her than with them. I like how it went into how their relationship deepened over the years & became almost like a mother-daughter bond. Anne had her heart broken so many times throughout her life, yet I think Helen was one consistant light in her life. One thing the book left out was Anne's disastrous short marriage to John Macy (who, from what I've read in other books, was a real jerk who broke her heart, cheated on her & was jealous of her & I think even hit her). I would have liked to have read that there, but I guess since this was more of a teen-or-kid book, they didn't want to get into the sordid details of that. Anne stayed true to herself to the end & encouraged Helen to do so too, much to the chagrin of the rest of the Kellers. The best gift she gave Helen was her freedom & independence. I thought it was really wonderful that Anne wanted Helen to be even independent of her, since once Anne got old & became permanently blind, she wanted Helen to continue her happy, productive, independent life long after she was gone. It is such a good lesson of pushing yourself to be free, since once Anne died, Helen did just that...lived a free, independent life even without Anne & continued working on behalf of handicapped people everywhere. As the last sentence in the book says, "Annie hadn't failed." She sure didn't'; she really was a success story. WAY TO GO, ANNE SULLIVAN! CONGRATULATIONS, ANNE! ... Read more

Book Description

"Brad" explores the ups and downs of van Gogh's life and art in this colorful report, featuring Brad's funny cartoons alongside reproductions of classic paintings like Starry Night. ... Read more

Book Description

A collection of stories for children about American historical figures. Designed for the younger student in order to start and nurture an interest in history. ... Read more

Reviews (141)

The opportunity of her life turns into a nightmare.
Thirteen-year-old Margaret, the fictional passenger that is the "writer" of the "diary" that makes up this book, shouldn't have even been on the Titanic. By a twist of fate that she interprets as good fortune, the orphan, who has been living at an orphanage since her mother died and her brother decided he couldn't care for her properly, gets a job with a wealthy American woman, Mrs. Carstairs. The job is fairly simple: Margaret just has to keep Mrs. Carstairs company during her return voyage to New York, and it comes with a ticket to America. Margaret takes the job eagerly: her brother now is living and working in America, able to support her, and has been saving up for a ticket for her for awhile. Now she can join him immediatley. But Mrs. Carstairs is returning to America on the Titanic. And we all know that voyage is doomed to end of tragedy. So Margaret unknowingly heads off into a disaster. We see through her eyes how the luxuries of first class would appear to a child who lived in poverty all of her life. And of course, the disaster plays a large role in the story as well. I highly reccomend this to fans of the Dear America series, historical fiction, and of course, the Titanic!

Voyage on the Great Titanic - Story of a British Girl
This book is a diary of a 13 year old British girl named Margaret Ann Brady. After her parents died when she was young, she was left in the orphanage by her brother, William. Then William went to America to earn money. With the support from Sister Catherine, a nun who was very closed to her, Margaret grew up to be a fine young woman. When she was thirteen, she met an American women named Mrs. Carstairs, who asked Margaret to be her companion her voyage to the America on a ship called the RMS Titanic. So they left together to experience the biggest moment in her life.

In the ship, she met many upper class people, especially Mrs. Carstairs friends. She was in first class and experienced a lot of things that upper class people do. She became friends with a ship steward named Robert. She had a lot of fun on the Titanic. But on the night of April 14, 1912, things start to going wrong. Titanic hit the big iceberg and ship had big gouge down her side. Titanic started to sink in the middle of the ocean. Titanic sent message to other ships for help, but they were too far away. Life boats were taken out and first class women and children boarded them. Margaret was in first class but she stayed to find Robert. After she met Robert, they said good bye to each other because Robert wanted to rescue Margaret. Then Margaret got on a life boat and she was rescued. Then next day, all the life boats were met by a ship called Carpathia and they were saved. More than 2,000 passengers, crew members, and others died from it, and only 700 people survived. When she arrived to New York, Margaret found her brother and, finally she was safe.

In this book, Margaret described her feelings about her life and on the Titanic. She was an extremely smart and so clever that she thought like an adult even though she is only thirteen. She noticed almost everything about what happened the Titanic. She wrote about everything that she saw and experienced on the Titanic. This journal has a lot of information about the Titanic and how it felt to survive such a disaster. The good thing about this book is that you can actually experience the huge Titanic known as "unsinkable" from the point of view of a young person. I recommend this book to students who are studying Titanic. It might be a little bit hard for some people because it has many words that British people use.

Voyage on the Great Titanic: The Diary of Margaret Ann Brady
Voyage on the Great Titanic: The Diary of Margaret Ann Brady (Dear America)
By: Ellen Emerson White

If you enjoyed the story of the Great RMS Titanic, have you ever wondered what the story was about the other survivors? Well, Margaret Ann Brady was one of the survivors on that tragic voyage. In the book, Voyage on the Great Titanic: The Diary of Margaret Ann Brady, Margaret is an orphan who was unexpectedly invited for the ship's first sail to America by a rich American lady, Mrs. Carstairs.
During her voyage to America, Margaret meets a steward, Robert Browning, which she becomes terribly fond of. Throughout her voyage, she is very interested in Robert, as well as he is of her. The two talk to each other often and shortly fall in love with each other. But at one point of the story, they both lose each other on a very terrible evening. Read this book to find out the story of Margaret Ann Brady.
I thought that this book was a great choice and a very interesting book to read. Learning about the Titanic through another person's point of view can be a very interesting part of reading a book. If you like reading historical fiction books, then Voyage on the Great Titanic: The Diary of Margaret Ann Brady by Ellen Emerson White is the book for you.

Voyage on the Great Titanic: The Diary of Margaret Ann Brady
If you enjoyed the story of the Great RMS Titanic, have you ever wondered what the story was behind the other survivors on the voyage? Well, Margaret Ann Brady was one of the people who survived that tragic voyage. In the book, Voyage on the Great Titanic: The Diary of Margaret Ann Brady, Margaret is an orphan who was unexpectedly invited for the ship's first sail to America in 1912 by a rich American lady, Mrs. Carstairs.
During her voyage, Margaret meets a steward, Robert Browning, which she becomes terribly fond of. Through her voyage, Margaret is very interested in Robert, as well as he is of her. The two talk very often and shortly fall in love with each other. But during one night, they lose each other. Read the book to find out the tragic story of Margaret Ann Brady.
This book is a great choice and an interesting book to read. Learning the Titanic's voyage from another person's point of view can be an interesting part of a book. If you like reading historical fiction books, then Voyage on the Great Titanic: The Diary of Margaret Ann Brady is the book for you. Voyage on the Great Titanic: The Diary of Margaret Ann Brady by Ellen Emerson White.

A Touching story
I saw this book in the Library and picked it out. i'm glad i di it was great. It touched me to the point i was crying, laughing and even got mad with the girl in the story. I felt like i was right on the ship! its worth it to get and read!!!! I am now reaading and buying the entire series. ... Read more

Book Description

When former Richmond High School basketball legend Ken Carter agrees to take over his alma mater's floundering team, he has the players sign a contract that demands good grades, perfect class attendance, and suits on game days. With Coach Carter at the helm, the Oilers' record soon stands at 12 and 0. But when the coach learns that some members of his team are cutting class and failing academically, he locks them out of the gym, incurring the wrath of the players, the school, and the community. Coach Carter's determination to adhere to his convictions puts his philosophy and his players' trust to the ultimate test.

Book Description

Magical heroes like Harry Potter, Spiderman, or Catwoman provide plenty of entertainment for kids, but in real life heroes are made of sterner stuff than celluloid fantasies. In this inspiring collection of biographies, critically acclaimed writer and psychologist Sandra McLeod Humphrey teaches young people that heroes were once ordinary people whose strength of character helped them to achieve extraordinary things. Starting with only their dreams, they worked hard and overcame obstacles to make their dreams come true. Some overcame physical handicaps, others psychological barriers like extreme shyness or feelings of inferiority; some faced racial discrimination or educational disadvantage, others financial burdens. In spite of these frustrations and discouragements, all of these people discovered in themselves the patience, perseverance, and determination to pursue their dreams beyond every obstacle. The message is clear: No matter who you are or where you come from, you too can accomplish extraordinary things, as long as you dare to dream and never, never, never give up! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

DARE TO DREAM Offers Hope for Today's Youth!
I feel that Sandra Humphrey's DARE TO DREAM is one of the best new children's books on today's market! It is definitely the book to buy for children that need a boost to their own self-esteem by recognizing that ordinary people that follow their dreams and never give up CAN become extraordinary individuals! Ms. Humphrey's well-researched biographies of these 25 heroes and heroines, past and present, makes me realize just how much their constant setbacks actually helped create the core of their characters and personalities, and firmly resolved their drive to succeed when it would have been much easier to just give up on their dreams.It renewed my own strength of purpose as an adult to follow my own dreams, especially when my spirit started to sag with what I considered overwhelming defeat. I would highly recommend DARE TO DREAM for our troubled young people that so desperately need role models to look up to -- real people that really DID what they set their minds to do.They will learn through the lives highlighted that it is okay to be different; that no matter HOW others perceive you, it is okay to believe in yourself; you should follow your heart to attain your goals; and, no matter the obstacle... NEVER EVER give up your dreams! This book WILL DEFINITELY turn some lives around, young and old, when the reader realizes there IS hope for their dreams to be followed after all!

How Long Has It Been Since You Talked About Heroes?
Don't you love a writer who taps into something good and shares it with you? Sandra McLeod Humphrey does that in Dare To Dream! 25 extraordinary lives (Prometheus Books, 2005,ISBN 1-59102-280-0). The author's intent was to restore dreams and heroes to young readers, by telling the stories of ordinary people who accomplish extraordinary things. She's succeeded so well, that the young people might have to wrest the book out of their parents' hands if they want to read it. I picked it up to browse just one short example, and 56 pages later, I would have fought off anyone who tried to wrest it from me! It's compelling reading and a inspired gift for all of the young people in your life. By the way, this author is a hero in her own skin. Look her up! Audrey B. Baird, Editor/Publisher Once Upon A Time

heroes in the making
Rebeccasreads recommends DARE TO DREAM! as a series of concise biographical sketches of people of renown, chosen to offer youngsters real life heroes & heroines from across the spectrum of life experiences from sports to the sciences, the arts & politics, & more.

A good primer to set students on the search for the magic in real people, who are made of sterner, "real-er" stuff & last a lot longer than entertainment fantasy heroes who struggle for a few minutes & are forgotten by adulthood.

Dare to Dream is a MUST READ for kids
Our whole family LOVES this book.We are reading one story every night before going to bed and I am being inspired by these stories just as much as the kids are.These true life stories about true life heroes mean so much more to the kids because they realize it's not pretend and these people really lived and really accomplished their goals despite great obstacles.With all the media hype of often less than honorable superstars, fame and fortune, it is so great to see a book that enourages real heroism, humility, bravery and true character.I hope everyone buys this book so that they too will be inspired.Kids need to hear more about real heroes like this because the world does not teach enough about them.AWESOME book! ... Read more