Helen Keller

Children's Literature

Part of the "Welcome Books Real People" series, Helen Keller is one of six titles that introduces the youngest readers to biographies. This a nicely designed series and this book will help many young children understand the physical disabilities (deafness and blindness) that Helen Keller overcame. 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 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 an index and professional references. The "Real People" series has one flaw. Readers who can decode words like "graduated" deserve meatier material than, for example, "Helen Keller helped many people." 2001, Children's Press, $13.50. Ages 4 to 7. Reviewer: Candice Ransom AGES: 4 5 6 7