GEORGE WASHINGTON

George Washington was a “silent man of action” involved in the French and Indian War, the Continental Congress, the American Revolution, and the Constitutional Convention. This straightforward account of Washington’s life and times provides a good introduction to the causes of the break with England as well as the character of the man. Notably, primary sources are allowed to speak for themselves at times and readers are able to make their own conclusions, supported and guided by a clear text. Washington’s letters, for example, demonstrate how his opinion on slavery gradually changed over time. Letters, maps, engravings, drawings, and portraits, all carefully attributed to their sources, enliven the text. Though carefully documented, with lists of famous quotations, battles, generals, and cabinet members, 50 pages of such supporting material overload the volume, and still there’s little to guide young readers and their teachers to the wealth of good resources available. An attractive volume nonetheless—and a useful research tool for young biography fans. (chronology, Web sites, bibliography, index) (Nonfiction. 10+)