Books in Biographies series

He risked the great unknown…and became the first man to reach the North Pole. But it took decades for the cloud of racism to lift and give African-American explorer Matthew Henson the rightful recognition for his extraordinary achievements. Here is the story of Henson’s dramatic, groundbreaking life.Matthew began his travels as a ship’s cabin boy, but it was his partnership with Robert E. Peary that made history. Although he acted as the team’s indispensable carpenter, hunter, navigator, and interpreter, his crucial role in the expedition went largely unacknowledged. Kathleen Olmstead, the adaptor of several Classic Starts® novels, captures all the adventure, danger, and thrills involved in reaching the top of the world

In this compelling graphic novel, follow the amazing life of Bessie Coleman, who became the first African American woman to earn a pilot's license. With comic book-style illustrations and engaging, easy-to-read text, this biography will inspire, entertain, and inform young readers about an individual who made a significant contribution to society. An additional information section provides key facts and further understanding, making this graphic novel a must-have in any home, classroom, or library.

Meet Serena Williams!Fact-filled Rookie Read-About Biographies introduce the youngest readers to influential women and men, both past and present. Colorful photos and age appropriate text encourage children to read on their own-as they learn about people like Serena Williams, Neil Armstrong, Rosa Parks, Anne Frank and many more. From the time she was five years old, Serena played tennis. Thanks to years of hard work and incredible talent she is considered by many to be the best female player ever. Serena's accomplishments aren't limited to the tennis court, though. She is also a successful entrepreneur and a dedicated philanthropist.

Meet Anne Frank. When she was 13 years old, Anne, her parents, and her sister went into hiding.Fact-filled Rookie Read-About Biographies introduce the youngest readers to influential women and men, both past and present. Colorful photos and age appropriate text encourage children to read on their own-as they learn about people like Serena Williams, Neil Armstrong, Rosa Parks, Anne Frank and many more. As Jews living under Nazi rule, they were in constant danger. The Franks lived in a small secret space-always quiet, always hungry, ever fearful-for two years before they were betrayed. Anne's diary of her time in hiding went on to become one of the most important pieces of literature in history.

From the time she was a little girl, Florence Nightingale knew she wanted to help people.Fact-filled Rookie Read-About Biographies introduce the youngest readers to influential women and men, both past and present. Colorful photos and age appropriate text encourage children to read on their own-as they learn about people like Serena Williams, Neil Armstrong, Rosa Parks, Anne Frank and many more. As a nurse, Nightingale worked hard to change health care practices-saving many lives in the process. Today she is considered the mother of modern nursing.

Ken Griffey Jr., son of former pro ballplayer Ken Griffey Sr., has baseball in his blood. From his early years hanging out at Yankee Stadium with his father through his high school days as a baseball star, Ken Jr. was destined to bring greatness to whatever team he played for. He fulfilled his destiny by helping shape his former team, the Seattle Mariners, into division champs. In 2000, Griffey took his legendary skills and famous smile to the Cincinnati Reds to try to win a World Series with his hometown team.