Starting with signature quotes printed on each front cover, these titles in the American Rebels series interject words from their famous subjects, and those who knew them, on nearly every page. Those well-integrated voices humanize the larger-than-life figures and create fascinating, well-organized portraits, which, true to each individual's "rebel" label, include frank (although nonexplicit) mention of substance abuse and sexual relationships. Each title begins with a turning point for both the figure profiled and the reach of his societal influence. Religion, rather than sports, starts off Muhammad Ali, beginning with the athlete's 1967 declaration: "I refuse to be inducted into the armed forces of the United States because I claim to be exempt as a minister of the religion of Islam." Skillfully chosen photos, chapter notes, and suggested-reading lists complete these well-researched, wholly engaging introductions to iconoclastic individuals whose continual questioning of authority and conventional wisdom will hit home with teen readers.

This biography of the three-time heavyweight world champion, Vietnam War protester, and Nobel Peace Prize nominee includes useful context-setting background; Micklos's play-by-play descriptions of Ali's bouts provide just enough detail for boxing fans. Some photographs and pull-quotes help break up the dense pages. Reading list, timeline, websites. Bib., glos., ind.