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. Bindi Irwin introduces this 20-year-old Australian actress, conservationist, and clothing designer, who appeared on her father Steve Irwin's wildlife TV show as a child. A series of short biographical introductions to noteworthy people.

Golkar, Golriz . Jaden Smith . ISBN 9781543541335 . Golkar, Golriz . Jason Reynolds . ISBN 9781543541311 . Golkar, Golriz . Laurie Hernandez . ISBN 9781543541342 . Golkar, Golriz . Meghan Markle . ISBN 9781543541274 . Golkar, Golriz . Misty Copeland . ISBN 9781543541304 . Nelson, Penelope S. Lin-Manuel Miranda . ISBN 9781543541298 . Watson, Stephanie . Colin Kaepernick . ISBN 9781543541281 .ea vol: 32p. (Influential People). chron. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Capstone . Aug. 2018. lib. ed. $28.65. Gr 2-5 How did some of today's most well-respected personalities rise to fame? This series celebrates influential figures, focusing on their greater professional legacy, including, in some cases, their contributions to social and racial justice. Authors cover the basics, including heritage and the obstacles that subjects overcame to achieve their dreams. Full-color photographs are interspersed with playful, doodlelike illustrations, and trivia blurbs are featured on each page. Notably, suggested activities are featured in each book. VERDICT This versatile biography set is a fine choice for middle grade readers.