December 1, 2013
Grades 2-4 The Big Buddy Biographies series offers simple bios for young middle-graders or older reluctant readers. Each book has only a paragraph or two of text per page, supplemented by snapshots of information or boxes titled Did You Know . . . . Both can be effective ways of incorporating information, though sometimes the tidbits are so inconsequential or obvious they might elicit a chuckle from adults. Big Time Rush introduces the four nonthreatening guys who appear in a TV series of the same name and details how the group was put together by the producers of the TV showmentioning the Monkees as a template. The series features a bright, colorful design, good-size typeface, and plenty of photographs, all of which invite young fans.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2013, American Library Association.)
January 1, 2014
Each subject's rise to fame is chronicled in a very basic profile, which offers biographical information about birthplace, family, and notable roles/performances. "Did you know..." sidebars appear throughout ("Carly Rae was up for two Grammy Awards in 2013. She didn't win, but she was honored to be included!"). The bland texts are accessible to reluctant readers. Illustrated with glossy promotional-looking photos. Glos., ind.
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