Mildred Taylor

School Library Journal

Gr 5-8-Houghton presents readers with an understanding of Taylor's work as based on family stories and the history of African Americans in the United States. The result is a blend of history with the author's life and literature. McGinty explains that Paterson's experiences growing up as the daughter of missionaries shaped her commitment to reflect the realistic feelings of children in her literature. Sommers describes Crutcher as an author who writes from his experience as a teacher, therapist, and writer. All three biographers show that their subjects have a deep respect for their readers and write stories that value truth and honesty. Selections of book reviews of their work are included. Each book contains an interview with the featured author along with well-documented citations, bibliographies, and further-reading lists. Although each volume includes only one photograph, these are well-written additions.-Rebecca Sheridan, Easttown Library & Information Center, Berwyn, PA Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.