Books in Step-Up Biographies series

“First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen”—and first in the minds of schoolchildren, who learn about George Washington as soon as they begin studying American history. From Washington’s Virginia childhood, through his days as a soldier and general, to his inauguration as the first President of the brand-new United States, and into retirement, this biography captures the full breadth and achievements of his life. It covers both the personal and the private, reveals his views on everything from governmental power to the abolition of slavery, and separates fascinating truth from well-worn legend—including that infamous, but false, tale about chopping down the cherry tree.

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

Thanks to his monumental accomplishments, Albert Einstein’s name is synonymous with genius. With his famous E=MC² and insights into quantum physics, this legendary scientist not only revolutionized the way we understand the universe, but paved the way for such diverse technology as lasers, cell phones, electron microscopes, DVD players, atomic weaponry, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Featuring kid-friendly explanations of the scientific principles, this compelling biography follows Einstein from his childhood through his early career struggles, and on to the theoretical breakthroughs and groundbreaking writings that won him the Nobel Prize. Equally important, we get a complete portrait of the man, who—deeply affected by the Holocaust—dedicated his life to pacifism and equal rights for all.

Patriot, soldier, lawyer, founding father, nation builder, and statesman: Alexander Hamilton was all those things and more. This fascinating biography introduces this prominent and popular figure in American history to children. Filled to the brim with photos, quotes, and maps, Alexander Hamilton is sure to be a hit with fans of both history and the smash Broadway musical. Engagingly written, it follows Hamilton from childhood to his tragic death, focusing on his hard work, cunning, and opportunistic zeal. It also shows Hamilton’s darker side; his recklessness and the tragedies that ultimately kept him from even greater heights.

The tale of the Powhatan princess from the Virginia woodlands is one of the best known and most loved in American history. While myth and legend have clouded some of the details, time has not diminished her bravery, selflessness, and commitment to peace. Nearly four centuries after her death, Pocahontas remains an inspiration, and her story will captivate every young reader.

A streak of 2,130 consecutive games played. Several World Series wins—including a four-game sweep. An American League single-season batting record that still stands. And that’s only a few of Lou Gehrig’s many achievements. Though illness sapped his strength, it never killed his spirit. Written by one of America’s leading sportswriters, this biography of baseball’s “Iron Horse” will inspire and touch kids as it reveals:- Gehrig’s childhood gymnastic workouts at a special German gym called a turnverein- How his incredible batting ability turned his high school team into a sensation- His lifelong struggle with shyness- The “Great Home Run Derby” with Babe Ruth—perhaps baseball’s most astonishing competition ever- The tragic ailment that ended his career--and life

This title focuses on TV and movie star Chris Pratt. We learn about his early life, his time in the spotlight, from the TV show Parks and Recreationto being one of the Marvel Avengers, and the legacy he will leave behind. This hi-lo title is complete with dazzling photographs, simple text, glossary, and an index. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Fly! is an imprint of Abdo Zoom, a division of ABDO.