Backstreet Boys

VOYA

This review was written and published to address two books, one about Ben Affleck and the other about the Backstreet Boys, in the Galaxy of Superstars series from Chelsea House. These short, informative, and colorful biographies of current stars in film and music will attract leisure readers and report writers alike. Beginning with the Oscar that Ben Affleck and Matt Damon won for Good Will Hunting, Wellman's contribution to the Galaxy of Superstars series retraces Affleck's acting career yet includes some of his school and personal life as well. The author then moves to the present, covering the opportunities that the Oscar opened for Affleck. Backstreet Boys provides biographies for each of the five band members. Zymet describes the formation of the group, their original gigs at small venues, and their superstardom overseas before they achieved recognition at home in the United States. The last two chapters cover personal and professional challenges that the band has faced in the last two years. Unlike the Affleck title, schooling is never mentioned, unusual considering that two band members were under sixteen years old when the band began. Books in this readable, wellorganized, and informative series are a bit short to fulfill the onehundredpage limit for book reports. The set, which includes titles on Jennifer Love Hewitt, Cameron Diaz, Brittany Spears, and Ewan McGregor, however, will attract fans, and the easytoread format will help those who struggle with books. Ask your patrons which volumes they would be interested in reading and purchase accordingly. Index. Photos. Further Reading. Chronology. Discography. VOYA CODES: 3Q 4P M J (Readable without serious defects;Broadgeneral YA appeal; Middle School, defined as grades 6 to 8; Junior High, defined as grades 7 to 9). 1999, Chelsea House, Ages 12 to 15, 64p. PLB $17.95. Reviewer: Beth Karpas