Abraham Lincoln

Children's Literature

Part of the "Welcome Books Real People" line, Abraham Lincoln is one of six titles that introduces the youngest readers to biographies. This is a nicely designed series that introduces our 16th President who is credited with keeping the United States as a single nation. The 24-page format and small, square trim size make the books easy for little hands to hold. The text is consistently placed. One or two sentences in large, plain type face the bleed-to-the-edge photographs or full-color art. The illustrations reinforce the narrative rather than enhance. Emergent readers can choose from a variety of multicultural personalities and historical figures. Each title has seven sections. The first three are devoted to the subject's life. "New Words" defines words outside the controlled vocabulary. "To Find Out More" lists further reading and web sites. The last page consists of the index and professional references. The "Real People" series has one flaw. Readers who can decode words like "president" deserve meatier material than, for example, "Abe always worked hard." 2001, Children's Press, $13.50. Ages 4 to 7. Reviewer: Candice Ransom AGES: 4 5 6 7