Friday, November 10, 2006

Chapter Books

Chapter Book Summaries
(Joseph F. Imburgia)


Bankston, John (2005). Gregor Mendel and the discovery of the gene. Boston, MA: Mitchell Lane Publishers.

This book puts forth a brief biography of Gregor Mendel, an Austrian monk and biologist whose work on heredity became the basis of modern genetics. It addresses the concepts of recessiveness and dominance, as well as his laws of heredity.


El Nabli, Dina (2006). Time for Kids: Eleanor Roosevelt: First Lady of the world. Rebound by Sagebrush.

This book covers the span of the life of Eleanor Roosevelt from her childhood years to her role as First Lady. Throughout, it details her passion and involvement with issues such as civil rights and women’s rights, and describes the role she played in support of
her husband and president, Franklin Delano Roosevelt.


Hargrove, Jim (1989). Nelson Mandela: South Africa's silent voice of protest. Chicago, IL: Children’s Press.

This book tells of Nelson Mandela and his life-long dedication to civil rights, particularly in South Africa. It describes his impressive educational achievements, and informs of his twenty-seven year imprisonment as well.


Hurwitz, Johanna (1997). Helen Keller: Courage in the dark. Random House.

This book covers the life of Helen Keller, and her challenges throughout life. Above all, it highlights great achievements in spite of her physical setbacks, and sets an inspirational example for its readers.


Kelso, Richard (2001). Building a dream: Mary Bethune's school. New York, NY: Metropolitan Teaching and Learning Company.

This book tells of Mary Bethune, the founding of her school for underprivileged children in early America, and the difficulties along the way. The school, known as Bethune-Cookman College, still stands today.


Krohn, Katherine (1992). Lucille Ball: Pioneer of comedy. Lerner Publishing Group.

This book tells the story of television icon, Lucille Ball. It describes the personal setbacks and struggles she faced in her life, and the determination and persistence she called upon in order to succeed.


Kramer, Barbara (2003). Mahalia Jackson: The voice of gospel and civil rights. Enslow Publishers.

This book covers the life of gospel singer, Mahalia Jackson, a native and life-long resident of Chicago, IL. It tells, not only of her musical career which included performing at the White House, but of her political involvement with Dr. Martin Luther King and civil rights as well.


Lewis, Gregg, & Lewis, Deborah (2002). Today’s heroes: Colin Powell. Zonderkidz Publishing.

This book covers the life of Retired General Colin Powell through September 11, 2001. The book is presented as a series of challenges and lessons that guided him from one point in his life to another, which may serve as a means to inspiration, as well as a vehicle to teach values to our students.


Mattern, Joanne (2005). J.K. Rowling: Author. New York, NY: Ferguson.

This book examines the life and career of J.K. Rowling, author of the Harry Potter book series. It explores, in depth, Rowling’s creative writing process, and the development of the stories themselves.


Mattern, Joanne (2006). Princess Diana: A photographic story of a life. New York, NY: DK Publishing.

This book explores the life of Diana Frances Spencer. It addresses key episodes of her life, both personal and public, providing its reader with a well-rounded view of one of the world’s leading ladies.


Pirotta, Saviour (1988). Scientists who made history: Albert Einstein. Raintree Steck-Vaughn Publishers.

This book covers the life and discoveries of Albert Einstein. Its strong suit are quotes from Einstein on a variety of topics, which can be used as points of further discussion.


Robinson, Sharon (2004). Promises to keep: How Jackie Robinson changed America. Scholastic Publishers.

Jackie Robinson’s daughter, Sharon Robinson, tells not only of her father’s athleticism, but also of his courage and discipline. His athletic achievements opened the door for minorities’ entry and acceptance into professional sports.


Ross, Michael, & Tush, Peter (2003). Salvador Dali and the surrealists: Their lives and ideas with 21 activities. Chicago Review Press.

This book details the life of artist Salvador Dali, while interspersing artistic activities and biographies of other noted artists of the surrealistic school. It covers, rather thoroughly, his growing up years, his travels, his impact on other artists, as well as the personal repercussions he faced as a result of his outspoken political stance.


Shea, George (1997). First Flight: The story of Tom Tate and the Wright Brothers. Harper Trophy.

This story tells of Tom Tate as the boy who assisted the Wright bothers with experiments in the making of their historic flying machine. The book focuses on Tom watching and helping the Wright brothers build their machine, as well as his taking the second flight on their glider.


Yannuzzi, Della A. (2000). Madam C.J. Walker: Self made businesswoman. Enslow Publishers.

This book describes the life of Madam C. J. Walker, and her drive to succeed. With just $1.50 and unyielding inspiration, she overcame great obstacles to become one of our nation’s most successful entrepreneurs.

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