On Eli Manning
This compact entry in the Robbie Reader Contemporary Biography series opens with an account of Eli Manning’s shining moment, the final minutes of Super Bowl XLII, which finally silenced his many critics and brought him out from under the shadow of his older brother, Peyton. The easy-reading biography then recounts growing up in the quarterback-factory Manning family, Eli’s on-the-field exploits in both high school and college, and finally some of the highs and lows of his professional career to date. The narrative makes Manning out as easygoing almost to a fault and fairly balances his less-than-admirable moments (refusing to play for San Diego, who drafted him, because he didn’t think they were good enough) with more positive aspects (including charity work, especially in New Orleans). Plenty of appropriately action-packed photos liven the relatively staid layout, and a chart with his career numbers will satisfy young stat hounds. Additional back matter includes a chronology, a glossary, and additional sources of information.
This easy-to-read book is a rather mature biography of a popular sports figure. Students interested in football will love this book. The chronology, "Find Out More" section, glossary, and index make it a good introduction to biographies.
This easy chapter biography about Mia Hamm is well organized and illustrated. It is part of the Robbie Reader series of high interest books for beginning readers.
On Hilary Duff
From A Robbie Reader series, Hilary Duff's brief biography is written simply and filled with quality photos that kids will enjoy. These books are exactly what young kids interested in these celebrities will want.
Pictures will be exciting to young fans. The biography is written simply for younger children or reluctant readers who will enjoy the photos and background. Young fans will love it.
On LeBron James and Mia Hamm
These biographies in the new Robbie Reader series balance slight, overly simplified texts with a good selection of color photos of the athletes. Both biographies touch on the athletes' childhoods, early training, and current successes...the short sentences and relatively simple vocabulary make these acceptable choices for emerging readers or for somewhat older students who are reading below grade level. The many images of the athletes practicing, playing, and having fun with their families and friends will surely attract browsers and draw reluctant readers into the words. A chronology, a list of further readings, and a glossary close these ... titles, which are best suited to collections in which high-interest, easy-reading sports material are in great demand.