John Lucas

School Library Journal

Gr 4-6-Easy-to-read biographies about African Americans who have made valuable contributions to our society. Jordan was a U.S. congresswoman from Texas who worked toward helping poor and minority citizens. Carson overcame poverty and racism to become a brain surgeon. He is best known for the first successful attempt to separate Siamese twins who were joined at the head. Lucas is a professional basketball player who overcame drug addiction to continue his career as a coach. He has gone on to help other players with drug problems. All three people overcame adversity, learned from their mistakes, and became successful in their chosen fields and contributors to society. The books are interesting, well organized, and clearly written. The short chapters and large print add to the appeal. A mixture of black- and-white and full-color photographs bring the subjects to life.-Sandra L. Doggett, Urbana High School, Walkersville, MD