Examines multiple perspectives in historical fiction and biography. By exploring point of view, students are inspired to look outward and investigate characters' experiences and the diversity in their world. Teachers should not allow their own cultures to bias selection and interpretation of texts. They should encourage students to develop…

In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, this month's featured book is "Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr." The book was written by Doreen Rappaport and illustrated by Bryan Collier (Jump at the Sun, 2001. 40p. ISBN 0786807148). This pictorial biography of the world-renowned civil rights leader has one of the most striking…

An illustrated story for young children features Christopher Columbus's first voyage to the Americas in 1492. The story begins with Columbus's youth in Genoa, Italy, follows him to Portugal and then to Spain, where he finally received backing for a voyage west to reach the East Indies. The preparations for the voyage and the trip itself are…

The Newbery and Caldecott children's book awards for the years 1966 to 1975 are covered. A resume of the book, an excerpt, the author's acceptance speech, and a biography of the author are provided for each of the ten Newbery award books. Some also have an author's note. For the Caldecott award books there are a book summary, the artist's…

Discusses biography for children as a literary form concerned with the task of personality integration and sets forth criteria for the selection of biography for children. (GT)

This sourcebook provides brief biographies of 65 popular children's nonfiction authors. Each profile focuses on how authors go about writing information books by giving a firsthand account of the challenges and rewards of nonfiction writing. Each biography provides a selected bibliography of the author's work, a photo, and a message to the student…

Suggests 22 biographies for elementary and secondary readers. (SJL)

Cautions that biography about adults, written for children, should not be allowed to replace other forms of literature, such as fairy tales, that are psychologically healthier for children's emotional levels. Biography tends to prematurely impose highly complex rational descriptions of life upon unprepared minds. (RAA)

Recounts the life and times of a pioneer children's theater playwright and fiction author, Nora Tully MacAlvay (1900-86). Points out that her interest in children's theater and children's literature was lifelong and intense. (PA)

Biographies provide the opportunity for identification, not only with those who are great today but also with those who have lived greatly in the past. Biographies fulfill students' needs for identification with someone who is admirable. Examples of inspiring life stories, sources of such stories, and questions are included. (JD)

Examines the image of Columbus as presented through children's literature. Examines the characteristics, personality, and accomplishments attributed to Columbus in trade books from the third- to sixth-grade reading level. Reports themes of Columbus as Genoese, child, sailor, man of scientific reasoning, leader, missionary, patriot, conqueror, and…

Illustrates how, in far too many ways, biographies of Christopher Columbus for young children have not changed much since the fourth centennial of Columbus' landfall. Asserts that the books are predominantly white, are addressed to whites, and exclude women. (PRA)

Describes how the proverb, "When the fish stinks, say that it stinks" permeates the author's writing of biographies of well-known American "heroes" for young readers. Points out the writer's obligation to illuminate both the negative and positive character and behavior of the people he or she writes about, offering examples from the author's…

Introduces five articles that advocate using children's literature to explore ethical issues and behaviors with students. Constance Perry summarizes research on moral/ethical development. Linda Lamme recommends fiction and biographies with subtle messages. Yvonne Siu-Runyan emphasizes multicultural literature. Bonnie Blake-Kline stresses zigzag…

Reports on the career of Theodor Seuss Geisel and suggests activities to celebrate his birthday. Lists selected children's books by Dr. Seuss, selected Seuss videos, Web sites, biographical resources, and biographical videos. (LRW)