James Earl Jones

School Library Journal

Gr 7 Up-As part of a series that examines individuals who have overcome obstacles of disability, prejudice, or fear, this book fits in well. Jones conquered stuttering and muteness as a child to become a prominent actor with a commanding presence and distinctive baritone voice. In numerous roles on stage and in film and television he has portrayed a variety of characters. As an African American he was a pioneer in a field dominated by European Americans. Although this biography does not cover his life in great depth, there is enough here to interest readers in his persona and the many dramatic works in which he has been involved (e.g., The Great White Hope, Darth Vader's voice in Star Wars, The Lion King, Fences). Numerous black-and-white photographs and movie stills illustrate the text. An appendix lists resources related to stuttering and there is a comprehensive filmography for those who want to see more of Jones in action.-Janet Woodward, Garfield High School, Seattle, WA