The Story of Clara Barton (Breakthrough Biographies)

Reviewed with Rachel A. Koestler-Grack's The Story of Eleanor Roosevelt.

Gr. 4-7. Women's history is very much the center in these titles in the Breakthrough Biographies series, which blend personal story with politics and history. The Barton volume begins with a dramatic double-page spread about her work on the Civil War battlefield, then goes back to her childhood and early years as a teacher, before turning to her war work and breakthrough achievement in founding the American Red Cross. Roosevelt's biography begins with her role in creating the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, then backtracks to the story of the awkward little girl who grew up to be not only first lady but also a powerful international politician and columnist in her own right. The boldface used for terms explained in the glossary seems obtrusive, but otherwise the style and design are just right for middle-graders. The type is spacious, illustrations appear on every page, and a chronology, a list of exciting facts, and a short bibliography, including Web sites, round out each volume. Both books will stimulate readers to find out more about the women and their times. Hazel Rochman
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Grade 2-4–With short chapters and graphic slashes of orange and blue on every page, this biography covers the life and impact of Barton, beginning with her birth and including her work as teacher, nurse, and organizational leader. Boxed quotes emphasize the woman's philosophy. The book is illustrated with historical documents, original art, and color photographs of places that still exist. The captions are clear and informative. A page of photos and short biographies of famous contemporary women is included. This visually appealing title is easier than books in the "Gateway Biography" series (Millbrook) and similar to those in the "Let Freedom Ring" series (Bridgestone) and "Picture-Story Biographies" series (Children's).–Erlene Bishop Killeen, Fox Prairie Elementary School, Stoughton, WI
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