Synopsis
An introduction to the life of George Washington, who proved himself a good military leader during the American Revolution and became the nation's first president.
Peg Glisson - Children's Literature
Once again combining history and humor, Venezia has begun a new series, "Getting to Know the Presidents," similar in style to his biographies of composers and artists. Lots of cartoons, loosely depicting facts from the text, make reading this biography fun. Venezia has also included reproductions of thirteen paintings, giving some sense of reality to this slightly irreverent biography. Young readers will gain a basic knowledge of the Washington, the person, and the events shaping his life from the well-written text. Unfortunately, there is no index to help youngsters access information. However, there is something to be said for making history entertaining; this is not intended for serious research but for introducing this prominent American to young readers and piquing interest in history, which it successfully does. 2004, Children's Press, Ages 7 to 9.