Gr 2-4-- The McKissacks present their subjects in language that is simple, clear, and matter-of-fact. Fictionalizing is kept to a minimum. Incidents of racial bigotry appear as a matter of setting with almost no attempt at explanation or detail. The result is a short, bare-bones biography of each person. These are not extraordinary individuals who transcend the limitations of racism. Instead, they are people of such drive and determination that not even a racially biased society could provide effective obstacles to deter them from their goals. Accuracy, style, and content are consistent throughout; the abundance of exclamatory statements and questionable glossary entries are minor annoyances. Generous black-and-white photos with informative captions and pen-and-ink drawings augment as well as illustrate the texts. --Phyllis Stephens, Rye Free Reading Room, NY