Bill Clinton (TAKING PART)

Grade 5-8-Standard biographies that offer general information about the subjects' childhoods, education, and adult achievements. The book about the president emphasizes his lifelong fascination with politics and admiration of John F. Kennedy, his career as Arkansas governor, and his presidential campaign. There is a brief discussion of the draft-avoidance question, but no mention of the uproar over Gennifer Flowers, which almost ended his run for the presidency, or of the gays-in-the-military issue. Hillary Rodham Clinton's successful efforts to combine both career and family responsibilities and her desire to redefine the role of First Lady are addressed. Both titles end with the couple's early days in the White House. Sherrow is admiring of the Clintons, and generally avoids negative or controversial issues. Although both books have numerous quotes and specific statements, neither includes source citations. A variety of full-color and black-and-white photos are included. Most of the information in these titles is widely available elsewhere. Wait for better and more in-depth coverage of the First Family.
Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.