Heroes of history

Mix a dash of daring, a pinch of persistence, and a sprinkle of spunk and let simmer over centuries. The result is this sampling of history makers. Divided into six sections warriors, rulers, innovators, explorers, rebels, and trailblazers this book introduces 25 individuals through short descriptions that set up an influential situation or event. While readers will recognize Leonardo da Vinci, Harriet Tubman, Amelia Earhart, and many others, a few individuals, like samurai Saigo Takamori and British suffragette Emmeline Pankhurst, will be new discoveries. Fictionalized diary entries in an amusing, conversational style further explain the individual's role in changing history. Each profile concludes with a summative statement on the individual's accomplishments, examples of similar history makers, and a time line. For example, the profile on Mahatma Gandhi includes peaceful protestors Rosa Parks and Burma's Aung San Suu Kyi. Accompanied by stylized head shots, cartoonish illustrations, and archival photos and reproductions, the biographical narratives are lively appetizers that will lead to more meaty research.--Leeper, Angela Copyright 2015 Booklist

Six thematic sections ("Warriors," "Explorers," "Rulers," "Rebels," "Innovators," "Trail Blazers") each feature profiles of four individuals through a combination of facts and made-up diary entries. Related subsets (e.g., "Powerful Kings") are given one paragraph or mentioned on a timeline. The subjects are arbitrarily chosen, the diaries are flippant, and the information is superficial. Cartoon illustrations and small photos accompany the text. Timeline. Glos., ind. (c) Copyright 2016. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.