Cuba Gooding, Jr.

Children's Literature

This brief biography of a young film actor's life is part of the "Black Americans of Achievement" series. Coretta Scott King has written the introduction to the series. Gooding's achievement begins the book and is its centerpiece. At the 1997 Academy Awards ceremony, Gooding received the Oscar for best supporting actor for his role in the movie Jerry Maguire. He was only the sixth African American to receive the film industry's highest award for an acting performance in 69 years. The biography illuminates Gooding's ascent to that evening and the path his career has taken since. Emphasis is given to the actor's high personal standards regarding acting roles, and the limited number of topquality roles written specifically for African Americans in Hollywood. Blackandwhite photos illustrate. With interviews and movie reviews by others, readers learn how the actor captured movie roles and prepared for his acting assignments. Because Gooding was in a 1995 television movie about the Tuskegee Airmen, back matter includes information about the Airmen. Also included are Gooding's filmography and an essay about AfricanAmericans and the film industry. 2000, Chelsea House Publishers, Ages 8 to 12, $9.95. Reviewer: Jacki Vawter