Biography

Title: Queen Elizabeth I of England
Author: Robert Kraske
Publisher: Capstone Press (Snap Books)
Genre: Nonfiction
Pages: 32
How Found: In U of D ERC new book examination room.
Lexile: 780L
Awards: None listed.
Plot Summary: This book chronicles the main events in the life of Queen Elizabeth I, from her coronation to death. It includes many paintings, drawings and photographs with captions along with the biographical information. Also included are some of her famous quotes, such as, "I'd rather be a beggar and single than a queen and married." A glossary and resources are included at the end.
Relationship to Theme: This book could be shocking when you consider how different relationships were back then. (The role of women in 16th century England, politics, danger in what people said to friends, etc.)
Personal Connection: I found this book to be interesting because of the surprising facts, such as how Elizabeth's own sister sent her to prision at age 20. The format was very easy to follow, with large varied fonts and lots of pictures with brief, interesting captions. It is colorful and attention-getting without looking too childish. I think the pictures alone make this book worthwhile!
Possible Readers: This would be for somewhat older readers than my other suggestions, because the subject matter requires a little more background knowledge of history and the vocabulary is more challenging. I would say 4th -6th graders would find this book helpful.
Instructional Ideas: I would have students read this book in small groups, perhaps as part of a fact-finding mission about life in England in the 1500's, or roles of women in history.

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Title: Derek Jeter: A Yankee Hero
Author: B.A. Roth
Publisher: Grosset & Dunlap (All Aboard Reading Series)
Genre: Nonfiction
Pages: 48
How Found: U of D ERC new book examination room.
Lexile: None listed. (Publisher lists it as Level 3 -Independent Reader, Ages 6-8)
Awards: None listed.
Plot Summary: Starting out with a gripping, play-by-play account of Jeter's success in Game 3 of the 2001 Series, this book details the highlights of Derek Jeter's baseball career. As a child, Derek was encouraged and coached by his parents in a variety of sports. His unusual talent won him a contract with the New York Yankees and scholarship to the Univsersity of Michigan at age 18. Other smaller, but interesting, details are included, such as how Jeter had to learn to live on his own, and how an Internet hacker cost him the All-Star spot in 1999. Of course, many photos are included of Jeter in action on the field.

Relationship to Theme: Jeter's always supportive and loving parents are a great example for readers, as are his difficulties in growing up in a bi-racial household. He also sets a good example of being a team player.
Personal Connection: I chose this book because my husband and his family are huge Yankee and Jeter fans, so I figured our child would want ot know all about him! I liked that it was easy to understand, even for someone less versed in baseball lingo like myself! The font was large and clear, and there were lots of action pictures.
Possible Readers: I would say that 3rd - 6th graders would enjoy this book. There is more text than pictures, so younger students would need assistance with it. (The publisher suggests that it is for ages 6-8, and Amazon.com suggests ages 9-12.)
Instructional Ideas: I think this would be good to include with other similar books to teach students about the genre of biography. It also could be used to research a short presentation on a favorite person or hero.