Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




Presidents (and Some First Ladies) in Picture Books


Cover art for MICHELLE OBAMA
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2010

"This disappointing biography may appeal to parents looking for inspiring stories of successful women, but it's unfortunate that the author has defined success only in terms of her subject's acceptance at prestigious schools and marriage. (Picture book/biography. 4-7)"
The author and illustrator of Obama: Only in America (2010) offer a companion life of the First Lady, showing the values of her childhood family and summarizing her schooling and her current role. Read full book review >
Cover art for LINCOLN TELLS A JOKE
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 1, 2010

Not many biographies of the 16th U.S. president begin "Poor Abraham Lincoln." Read full book review >
Cover art for OBAMA
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 1, 2010

"Weatherford's commemorative "American Baptism" provides a powerful finale to this undeniably passionate offering. (Picture book/biography. 6-9)"
This lyrical tribute to the 44th U.S. President describes Barack Obama's diverse childhood experiences and his various mentors and concludes with his successful presidential election. Read full book review >
Cover art for TEEDIE
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 20, 2009
by Don Brown, illustrated by Don Brown

"All in all, this is a spot-on introductory book for lower grades. (author's note, bibliography) (Picture book/biography. 5-8)"
The author/illustrator of many celebrated picture-book biographies (Dolley Madison Saves George Washington, 2007, etc.) turns his attention to the frail, timid boy who became our athletic youngest president. Read full book review >
Cover art for A PICTURE BOOK OF DOLLEY AND JAMES MADISON
CHILDREN'S
Released: Feb. 15, 2009

"An impressive list of source notes and recommended resources provide background support for young readers and researchers alike. (timeline, notes, bibliography, recommended websites) (Picture book/biography. 7-10)"
America's "most underrated President" and his "Queen Dolley" receive star treatment in this latest entry in Adler's Picture Book Biography series. Read full book review >
Cover art for ELEANOR, QUIET NO MORE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Feb. 3, 2009
by Doreen Rappaport, illustrated by Gary Kelley

"Suitable for reading aloud as well as independently, this is a gracious and admiring portrait, a splendid way to introduce the "First Lady of the World" to a new generation of young children. (Informational picture book. 5-9)"
Unhappy and quiet as a child, Eleanor Roosevelt learned to speak for herself as a teenager, encouraged her husband Franklin D. Roosevelt's political career and made one for herself during his presidency and after his death, defending the weak and fighting for freedoms. Read full book review >