Books in Britannica Beginner Bios series

This absorbing biography conveys the same passion and energy with which van Gogh painted his masterworks. From his birth in Zundert, the Netherlands and his work in his uncle's art gallery, to his art studies in The Hague and his first important work The Potato Eaters, readers experience the challenges that van Gogh encountered in his life and work. Most importantly, they are immersed in his vibrant, dynamic, and boldly colored masterpieces that are roiling with movement and emotion. Vocabulary and fact boxes provide readers with additional opportunities to engage their minds and satisfy their curiosity.

Albert Einsteins studies and findings are world renowned, and this beginner biography walks elementary readers through the life of one of historys most amazing scientists. With many color photos, the book details his early life and struggles in Germany. Readers will learn about Einsteins personal life in Germany and Italy. His major scientific achievements are clearly and simply explained, as are general physics terms. Readers will enjoy this lively life story and are apt to be inspired by Einsteins achievements and determination.

Imprisoned for twenty-seven years for protesting against South Africas system of apartheid, Nelson Mandela was elected the nations first black president and became known as one of the greatest world leaders in recent memory. His work to end apartheid and unify the people of South Africa has influenced campaigns for human rights around the world. This biography profiles his long, remarkable life, beginning with his boyhood, education, and early involvement with the African National Congress. Young readers will be inspired by Mandelas extraordinary courage, leadership, and capacity for forgiveness.

"Amelia Earhart was queen of the skies at a time when airplanes dazzled the imagination. She was adventurous and daring. Earhart became the first woman pilot to cross the Atlantic Ocean, and she did it solo. She flew across the United States and returned, alone. She soloed halfway across the Pacific. She set many flying records but none of that satisfied Earhart. In May 1937, she and her navigator took off from California on her final, epic flight. Their destination: around the world"--

Everyone is familiar with Mickey Mouse, Mary Poppins, and Frozen, but do they know the man behind the mouse? Born to a humble family, young Walt loved drawing pictures and entertaining people. After an early career as an advertising illustrator, he opened his own animation production company. That set him on the path to creating trailblazing animation and live-action movies and creating the studio—not to mention theme parks—that would continue to entertain children and adults alike long after his death. Filled with interesting facts and authentic photographs, this beginner biography will inspire young readers to dream big and work hard.

Young readers who may be unfamiliar with Rosa Parks will be inspired by this biography of the American hero and her part in sparking the Civil Rights Movement. Valuable historical information is provided as context for understanding the conditions African Americans were forced to endure before Parks refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery bus. Parks continued to serve as a civil rights leader for the rest of her life, making sure her struggles were not forgotten, and today she is seen as a symbol for civil disobedience.

Afflicted with chronic pneumonia as a child, Kate DiCamillo found solace in books and dreamed of becoming a writer. Her first book, Because of Winn-Dixie, the story of a lonely girl and her dog, resonated with audiences and earned DiCamillo a Newbery Honor. A later book, The Tale of Despereaux, won her the Newbery Medal. DiCamillo has written many more stories, some of which have been adapted to film, and has won many more major awards for her work. Readers will learn about a cherished author and about the value of perseverance.

Laura Ingalls Wilder's stories about growing up on the frontier have inspired and enthralled young readers for generations. "Little House on the Prairie," and her other books chronicled her experiences surviving on the nineteenth-century American frontier. This accessible biography of Laura Ingalls Wilder follows the real events of her life from her early childhood spent in a log cabin to her later years as an acclaimed author. Readers will be captivated by Wilder's determination and staunch spirit in overcoming obstacles in that bygone era. Vocabulary and fact boxes provide readers with additional opportunities to engage their minds and satisfy their curiosity.

Frederick Douglass was one of the most pivotal figures in the abolitionist movement leading up to the Civil War and the end of slavery in the United States. Today, the self-taught author, speaker, publisher, and activist is revered as a pioneering African American civil rights leader. This engaging book for young readers follows the major events in Douglass's life, from his birth in slavery and escape to his involvement in the abolitionist movement and post, Civil War activist causes. Readers learn about his influence on later civil rights leaders and movements. Vocabulary and Quick Fact boxes present the reader with important terms and information.