Mariah Carey

VOYA - Catherine Gilmore-Clough

For sheer gossipy fun that has the nutritional content of a Twinkie, this new Blue Banner Biography series is sure to hit the spot. The biography of Mariah Carey likewise starts at a dramatic moment-the singer's well publicized breakdown of 2001, but it covers her early successes and her current comeback. Other titles in the series profile J. K. Rowling, Bernie Mac, Derek Jeter, and Gwen Stefani. This set of more than fifty slim biographies does not provide deep insight into the character or lives of mostly current media darlings, nor does it provide enough detail as a stand-alone source for book reports. The facts and quotes are taken from newspaper and magazine articles as well as online interviews and Web sites. An emphasis on overcoming challenges in one's life provides an inspirational note, aided by the point that the seamier aspects of some stars' lifestyles or habits are glossed over. Each volume includes a chronology, bibliography, filmography or discography, and further reading that lists other works, provides works cited, and offers some recommended Web sites. Fans of celebrity gossip magazines and shows like VH-1's Behind the Music will find a shallow but quick and entertaining read.