The newest entry in Adler's Picture Book Biography series introduces George Washington Carver. Focusing more on Carver's life than his work, the book begins with his birth into slavery on the Carver's farm and does not spare youngsters from hearing that raiders kidnapped him and his mother and took them to Arkansas, a fact illustrated with a shadowy painting of eight ominous, hooded figures, nor that he once witnessed a lynching: a mob of white men pulled a black prisoner out of jail, tied him with a rope, and dragged him for five blocks. The prisoner was hanged and later burned. Though the child's father was dead and his mother was never found, Mr. Carver brought George back to the farm, where he and his wife raised George and his brother. Illustrated with attractive watercolor paintings, the book follows Carver's life, his education, and his accomplishments as he worked in scientific research and teaching to understand nature and to make a difference to his people. A useful addition to a long-running series, though the references to vigilante activities indicate a somewhat older audience than Adler's other biographies. (Reviewed April 15, 1999)

The latest addition to this series introduces the life of the African-American agriculturist from his enslaved birth to his constant quest for education and his scientific achievements. The watercolor illustrations are accomplished, but the demands of the easy-to-read format lead Adler to simplify his portrayal; Carver's controversial accommodationist race-relations stand is mentioned only in the brief author's note. Bib.

Gr 2-4-An easy-to-read biography that is well suited for reading aloud or for use by children needing material for social studies or science. The text contains quotes from Carver, which add to the presentation. Adler begins with Carver's birth near the end of the Civil War and ends with his death in 1943. Youngsters will learn important facts about slavery and racial prejudice as well as the botanist's significant contributions. The colorful illustrations complement the simple, but informative text to give children a solid introduction to one of America's most important scientists. A concluding note discusses the peanut tariff of 1921 and Carver's attitude toward racial problems.-Susan Knell, Pittsburgh State University, Pittsburgh, KS Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information.