The Beatles

School Library Journal

Gr 6 UpBeginning and ending with paragraphs that expand on the book's subtitle, Martin provides the focus and a thesis upon which to hang this oft-retold tale. The author is most successful at telling the early part of the Beatles' story. He fills in the details with interesting tidbits and historical context, such as Paul McCartney's struggle with left-handedness and the "Teddy" youth movement that created the social scene that made the Beatles possible. The later yearsfrom Sgt. Pepper's onare given short shrift. This lack of balance is disappointing. On the other hand, the book brings the Beatles phenomenon up to the present, mentioning the successful Anthology project. Two inserts of glossy black-and-white photos feature well-known shots of the Beatles, as well as a number of performers who were important influences. Detailed source notes, an extensive list for further reading, and a discography, are appended.Tim Wadham, Dallas Public Library, TX