Meghan Markle

February 1, 2019

Gr 4-7-This new series profiles a wide range of prominent people, from athletes to authors to royalty. The titles present the obstacles their subjects overcame and spotlight their positive impact on the world. The series benefits from a diverse, contemporary set of subjects who will spark reader interest. Any controversy, particularly in regard to Colin Kaepernick, is addressed evenhandedly. The text, written between a second and third grade reading level, is easily digestible for struggling readers, with about six sentences per page and four chapters in total. Though the volumes are short, each one packs in extensive biographical information. Attractive page layouts feature vivid, often full-page photographs, along with doodle-style drawings. Each book contains nonfiction text features like bold words, captions, a glossary, time line, index, and a list of further resources. An interactive activity, such as writing a poem or organizing a sports day, is also included, which serves as a way for readers to take action and make a difference like the inspiring figures they are reading about. VERDICT This series, directed toward middle graders, is an excellent choice for biographical research.

Copyright 2019 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

December 1, 2018
Grades 2-5 A smiling face on the cover welcomes kids to each slender volume in the Influential People series (8 titles). Designed to attract a broad age range of readers, the books provide basic biographical information that is accessible to primary-grade readers and older students with lower reading levels. Few double-page spreads include more than a couple of paragraphs, and the sentences are seldom more than 10 words long, which can make the writing sound stilted at times. The two-page spreads usually feature a large, color photo of the person discussed, along with captions and colorful design elements. Although Meghan Markle opens with Markle's royal wedding to Prince Harry, the book explores her childhood, her acting career, and her long-standing interest in human rights. A series of short biographical introductions to noteworthy people.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2018, American Library Association.)