A MAN FOR ALL SEASONS

Krensky tells the remarkable story of George Washington Carver with humanity and grace. Born into slavery and orphaned young, Carver and his brother were raised with love by the white couple who once owned them. For inquisitive, intelligent George, they hired a tutor—since he couldn’t attend the local whites-only school. At age 12, George struck out on his own, always in pursuit of more knowledge. Krensky’s language, quiet and strong, hits all the right notes, describing how setback and recognition seemed to come in tandem for Carver. Booker T. Washington asked him to head the agricultural institute at Tuskegee, but an utter lack of supplies left him scavenging the town dump. Throughout his life, Carver’s gentle persistence and boundless curiosity led him from strength to strength. Bathed in sunlight and warmth, Clay’s illustrations invest Carver’s face with quiet determination. A top-notch introduction for schoolchildren of any age. (chronology) (Picture book/biography. 5-9)