Books with author John A. Torres

To some, Easter Island is just a tiny bit of volcanic rock in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. To others, it is the source of one of mankind s greatest mysteries. Easter Island is home to hundreds of giant statues that people built centuries ago but no one knows why. The statues are amazing. Some of them wear headdresses made from red stone. Others have large pieces of coral for eyes. Almost as mysterious as the statues themselves is the fact that so many of them were never finished. In fact, tools used to make the huge stone structures were left right near the unfinished works. What happened on Easter Island? And why does it continue to captivate us?

Regarded as one of the greatest rappers of all-time, Jay-Z didn’t always have the greatest life. In fact, growing up he faced more hardships and conflicts than any person should ever have to deal with. But this hip-hop biography will show how Jay-Z took those hardships and turned them into success by becoming arguably the best rapper ever and a very wise businessman.

Real-Life Reader Biographies present the lives of contemporary role models for young readers. These are the stories of real men and women who, despite many obstacles, followed their dreams. In an era of boorish athletes, loud-mouthed ball players, and obnoxious fans, New York Yankees' star shortstop Derek Jeter is quite a change. He is as polite as he is good-looking, and as talented as they come. One of the league's leading run producers, Derek can steal his way into scoring position, or smash the ball out of the park. He has helped the Yankees win three World Series rings. Born in 1974 in New Jersey, Derek and his family moved to Kalamazoo, Michigan, while he was still young. He grew up with strict, but loving parents, and has everything to show for his stong family ties. He always dreamed of playing for the New York Yankees. Though he has only been in the major leagues since 1996 (his first full year), he has rapidly become a superstar. Most agree he is nowhere near his prime and this handsome young man with the infectious smile has the potential for making baseball history.