Greenwood Biographies
Series · 84
books · 2000-2014
Books in series
#1
Pope John Paul II
A Biography
2003
The life of Karol Wojtyla would be remarkable even if he never became the Millennium Pope, revered by millions worldwide. From a Polish schoolboy who loved outdoor pursuits and quietly coped with family tragedy, he matured into a talented linguist, actor, and author, and experienced Nazi occupation, the Iron Curtain, and Solidarity's overthrow of Communism. His rise through the ranks of the Catholic Church was accelerated upon recognition of his gifted mind, combined with his behind-the-scenes activism and rapport with parishioners, especially youths.
The reign of John Paul II has transcended the Vatican and the Catholic sphere, as he has worked to heal the rift between Catholics and Jews, and Catholics and the Eastern Orthodoxy. He has also served as an ambassador to the world, traveling relentlessly to reach out to the masses, even as he battles Parkinson's disease and old age. This balanced narrative conveys the poignancy of his family ties and his admirable character and intellect, yet it also acknowledges criticism of conservative papal positions. A bibliography of print and electronic resources and a timeline complete the volume.
#2
Colin Powell
A Biography
2003
Colin Powell epitomizes the American success story, yet his heroism is uncommon and unique. Born in New York City to Jamaican-immigrant parents, Powell entered a recently desegregated army, rising to become its highest-ranking member. He is a Republican at a time when a vast majority of African Americans consider themselves Democrats. He is one of the most famous Americans alive, yet has spent much of his professional life in behind-the-scenes positions.
Beginning with his humble origins, this biography traces Powell's experiences from childhood, moving from his early days in the military through his climb to the highest echelons of power in Washington D.C. A timeline clarifies the key events in Powell's life and career, and a bibliography covers print and electronic sources for further research. This concise biography is ideal for students and general readers interested in the story behind one of America's most important and respected citizens, and the struggles an African American must face and overcome to succeed in contemporary America.
#4
Lady Gaga
A Biography
2012
This biography details Lady Gaga's life from all angles, documenting her family background; the events before and during her meteoric rise to success as a songwriter, singer, and performance artist; her deft use of social media; and her political commentary.
Lady A Biography details Lady Gaga's life from birth to 2011. Readers will learn about her personal background―where she was born, who her parents were, what her early school years as a "weird girl" with "rabbit teeth" were like―as well as her pre-fame years where she gained an education in music and "paid her dues" as a small-time professional in small performance venues. The many milestones of her wildly successful career so far are documented in detail, as are Haus of Gaga, the artistic collective that supports her performances; her ongoing activities as a performer; her presentation in couture and accessories; and her stated intentions for the future.
This book will be an engrossing read for fans of Lady Gaga as well as anyone interested in popular culture or the entertainment industry. Its inclusion of chapter endnotes containing quotations and controversial points along with a bibliography of print and electronic resources make it an authoritative research tool for students as well.
#5
Elena Kagan
A Biography
2013
Readers seeking information about Elena Kagan―from her early life and her ascent to the Supreme Court to how she approaches questions of fairness, justice, equality, and civil rights―will find this biography engaging and invaluable.
Elena Kagan can be considered a "wild card" in terms of how she will vote and affect Supreme Court decisions. While largely considered a liberal, her lack of a judicial "track record" and previous work as Solicitor General lend an air of uncertainty as to how she will react to upcoming cases that have proven highly divisive and controversial.
This full-length biography sheds light on Elena Kagan's life, covering her college years at Princeton and her experience in law school as well as her legal career, which eventually led her to a seat on the U.S. Supreme Court. Appropriate for high school, college, and adult readers, the book not only documents Justice Kagan's life, achievements, and the possibilities for the future, but also how Kagan is an inspiring role model who demonstrated independence, determination, and high achievement throughout her career.
#7
Emiliano Zapata
A Biography
2011
This thorough narrative examines Emiliano Zapata's life, his role in Mexico's revolutionary movement, and his true motivations and beliefs.
Emiliano Zapata is regarded as among the most important figures of the Mexican Revolution. This book provides more than just a biography of a great leader; it enables readers to understand who Zapata was and the interests and ideologies he supported, emphasizing his ideals and distinguishing him from those who have used his name for their own purposes.
Emiliano A Biography is organized chronologically, detailing Zapata's youth and early adulthood in the years preceding the Mexican Revolution; his role in getting his home state involved in the Revolution; and his ascent to power in Morelos' revolutionary movement. The author elucidates Zapata's continual struggle to bring meaningful change to the lives of Mexico's poorest people, how his commitment to revolutionary reform came to define his existence, and how his ideals led to his own violent death as they had to the deaths of so many of his adversaries. A fascinating read for high school students as well as general readers, this biography tells an unforgettable story of one of Mexico's heroic figures.
#8
F. Scott Fitzgerald
A Biography
2005
One of the most widely read writers in the high school curriculum, F. Scott Fitzgerald is the author of the great American novel, The Great Gatsby . While other biographies provide extensive information about Fitzgerald's life and achievements, this volume meets the need of high school students for a concise, accessible, and informative discussion of Fitzgerald and his works. Chapters survey the various periods in his career, and the volume closes with a timeline and bibliography.
Probably the best candidate for the author of the great American novel, F. Scott Fitzgerald is primarily known for his masterpiece, The Great Gatsby . He had fallen out of favor by the time of his death in 1940, while Ernest Hemingway attained worldwide fame. But there has been a tremendous renewal of interest in his works, and he is one of the most important writers in the high school English curriculum. While there are other biographies of Fitzgerald, this work meets the need of high school students for a concise, accessible, and informative survey of Fitzgerald's life and career.
#9
Carrie Underwood
A Biography
2010
In this book, follow the career of Carrie Underwood as she goes from the American Idol competition to worldwide celebrity.
Carrie A Biography follows the singer from a small town in Oklahoma to the stages of the most prestigious concert halls in the world. Along the way, fans will read about this girl-next-door's decision to compete on American Idol and her subsequent triumph there, about her first recordings in Nashville and her platinum albums, and about her sold-out concert tours with superstars like Brad Paisley, Kenny Chesney, and Keith Urban.
But the book isn't only about Underwood as a celebrity. It is also about how she uses that celebrity to do good works, including speaking out for the Humane Society of the United States, participating in a song that benefited Stand Up For Cancer, doing public service announcements for the Do Something youth organization, and touring for the USO.
#10
Stonewall Jackson
A Biography
2011
A thorough and effectively executed study, this biography will appeal to anyone interested in Stonewall Jackson and the military history of the Civil War.
Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson was one of the greatest generals of the Civil War and remains an iconic figure of American history. Stonewall A Biography offers a complete yet concise account of Jackson's life and career, illuminating the forces and events that shaped both.
The study is organized chronologically, beginning with Jackson's hardscrabble upbringing in the mountains of western Virginia. It follows him through the experiences that brought him to 1861, when he won the nickname "Stonewall" on the battlefield of the first great battle of the Civil War, and then traces his military career and role in the Confederate victories of 1861–1863. Throughout, the biography never loses sight of the man himself. Readers will understand both Jackson's impact on military history and the qualities that enabled him to achieve personal satisfaction and fame as one of history's great soldiers.
#11
Venus and Serena Williams
A Biography
2005
The author shares the life stories of Venus and Serena Williams, who charged onto center court in professional tennis at the end of the 20th century with a force never before seen in the sport. No other women tennis players have matched their strength, their speed, or their overall athleticism, and none have achieved the status and celebrity they have gained on and off the court as they powered to the number one and two rankings in the Women's Tennis Association (WTA). Venus and Serena Williams represent in many ways a shift in attitudes concerning women in sports, particularly African American women. By playing tough tennis, they conveyed to the public that it was acceptable for women to be strong, to have muscles, and to compete.
When Venus and Serena first appeared in the public eye, their hair bound in beads bespoke their ethnic pride, the braces on their teeth belied their youth, and their grit and determination enabled them to withstand challenges concerning the attitudes of these young African American women in what had traditionally been a white-washed sport. This book shares their stories, and it provides a way to consider the impact of race, gender, and culture, and the influence these have through sport in shaping popular culture. Includes a timeline and a bibliography of print and electronic sources for additional research.
#12
Kanye West
A Biography
2009
A revealing biography of Kanye West explores the artist―and the man.
Kanye West is a star. His music has jumped from sensation to staple in the rap industry, while his personality, his philosophies, and his willingness to speak out for what he believes in regularly place him at the center of controversy. Kanye A Biography traces the star's life from his birth through the present day to paint a detailed picture of the artist and the man.
Raised by a single mother who was an English professor in Chicago, West admits he came from "the wrong side of the mall" rather than the wrong side of the tracks. His name, his style, and the way he conducts his business are unique. His thoughtful reflections in interviews reveal a complex man few have taken the time to understand. This biography looks at that multifaceted star, exploring his career as singer and producer, but also looking at the forces that prepared him to chase his dreams―and chase off anyone who stood in his way.
#13
Tyra Banks
A Biography
2010
This book chronicles the fascinating life story of the supermodel turned media mogul who has become one of the most influential African American women in our popular culture.
Tyra A Biography tells the story of one of today's most visible, successful, and inspiring young African American women. It is a revealing look at Banks' meteoric rise from geeky adolescent to supermodel, actress, and TV mogul―all in just seven years after initially being turned down by a number of agencies.
In following the life of Tyra Banks, this authoritative biography finds the sources of her determination not just to succeed but to aggressively promote positive female role models and debunk biases and stereotypes too-often applied to women. Among the highlights are Banks' years as youth correspondent for Oprah Winfrey and her extensive philanthropic work, establishing scholarships, charities, and camps, while providing self-help advice for young women.
#14
Lance Armstrong
A Biography
2011
This readable biography of Lance Armstrong surveys his legendary cycling career as well as the details of his life outside of cycling.
The son of a single mother and born in a run-down housing project, American athlete Lance Armstrong emerged from decidedly modest beginnings. Four decades later, Armstrong has established himself as not only one of the world's greatest and most successful athletes, but also as an activist for charitable causes. Through the Lance Armstrong Foundation, Armstrong supports cancer research and treatment while he serves as the ultimate inspiration for other athletes and cancer survivors.
Lance A Biography provides a detailed treatment of Armstrong's life, from the lasting influences of his boyhood and the early years of his competitive training, to his battle with cancer, his divorce, and the birth of his fifth child during his second comeback to professional cycling. The book portrays him both as a champion athlete and a family man, and gives a candid assessment of his career, including Armstrong's less successful periods.
#15
Prince William
A Biography
2011
This biography encompasses the life of Prince William of Wales, from the moment of his birth in 1982, through to his current status as an ambassador of the Royal Family and one of the most popular celebrities in his home country and around the globe.
In Prince William, experienced biography author Joann F. Price details the prince's life thus far, including his experiences at the prestigious Eton College and the University of St. Andrews in Scotland, his global travels with his glamorous and beloved mother and brother, his military service, and his engagement and upcoming wedding to longtime girlfriend Kate Middleton. The book also reveals important aspects of the Royal Family and explains how being born into it—an integral and highly influential part of the history of the British Empire—has molded this man's life. Students can use this book as a major resource in writing papers about Prince William; general readers will find its contents fascinating.
#16
Shaquille O'Neal
A Biography
2006
As one of the most recognizable and highest paid athletes in the world, Shaquille O'Neal, better known as Shaq, is undeniably one of the greatest players in basketball history. Murry Nelson presents a fascinating look at the career of a man who has dominated basketball for over 10 years and invites readers to take a close look at the person behind the phenomenon.
This insightful biography brings the achievements of Shaquille O'Neal to life, providing information on his early life and the influence of his parents, coaches, and fellow players. Chapters take the reader from Shaq's childhood in Newark and Germany through his college years at Louisiana State University, tracing his path to NBA superstardom with the Orlando Magic, the Los Angeles Lakers, and the Miami Heat. Basketball fans will appreciate the play-by-play account of the many championship runs in Shaq's legendary career. This biography also spotlights Shaq's celebrity life off the court as a rap recording artist, film star, and commercial pitchman for numerous multi-million dollar brands. A timeline highlighting key events in Shaq's life and career, a bibliography, and a statistical appendix enhance this biography.
#22
Tecumseh
A Biography
2008
One of the most important Native American leaders in history, the Shawnee leader Tecumseh protested land cession, and was a major catalyst of the Battle of Tippecanoe. He harnessed the tradition of American Indian pan-tribal unity to become the most important symbol of multi-national Native American identity and resistance in North America. This in-depth, accessible treatment explores the life of a key figure in Native American battle-lore who figures prominently in U.S. history curricula.
Lively, narrative chapters explore the Shawnee culture, Tecumseh's childhood, the transformation of his brother, Tenskwatawa into The Prophet, his creation of a pan-tribal movement, the War of 1812, and his legacy in history and popular culture.
#25
David Petraeus
A Biography
2010
This in-depth and forthright biography examines the personal and professional life of General David Petraeus, today's most prominent military leader.
David A Biography offers an objective assessment of the life and career of the man who is arguably the most important military figure of the decade and certainly an officer who has had an enormous impact on U.S. military strategy and policy.
The biography examines the full range of Petraeus' experiences, from his youth in New York to his involvement with the 101st Airborne Division to the 2007 MoveOn.org controversy. The author, a military historian and army strategist, explores the general's considerable influence on officer development, as well as the ways in which his integration of diplomatic, economic, and informational components into military campaigns have transformed the Department of Defense's approach to warfare. Readers will be able to clearly trace Petraeus' rise to prominence and discover how his actions have shaped, and been shaped by, current events in the United States and the Middle East.
#26
Sitting Bull
A Biography
2007
A revered political, spiritual, and military leader, Sitting Bull was legendary for his stubbornness and battle prowess as head of the Lakota Sioux in the 1860s. His resistance of U.S. government encroachment onto Native lands and his fight to preserve Sioux culture inspired his people to do the same, culminating in the Battle of Little Bighorn. Despite his eventual surrender, Sitting Bull was one of the most influential figures in the history of U.S.-Native American relations. This accessible biography marks the first of several Native American volumes to come in the Greenwood Biographies series and is an essential supplement to any American history or Native American studies curricula.
Lively, narrative chapters
Sitting Bull's early years and successes as a young warrior
The Battle of Little Bighorn and Sitting Bull's eventual flight to Canada
His confinement to a reservation and participation in Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show
His legacy, historical reputation, and images in popular culture.
#27
Paul Newman
A Biography
2010
This book examines the life of the remarkable Paul Newman―an iconic actor, director, race car driver, political activist, businessman, philanthropist, devoted husband, and father.
Paul Leonard Newman was a true Renaissance man who is known worldwide for his performances as an actor and director. His career in the entertainment industry stretched over 50 years, as did his marriage to Joanne Woodward―an unusual and notable achievement in Hollywood. Newman was also a talented race car driver, an influential political activist, a savvy businessman, and a passionate philanthropist who created a food company that has donated more than $280 million to charities. But Newman also suffered many defeats throughout his life; he was human, just as we all are.
This biography provides a chronological narrative that documents Newman's long life and myriad contributions. Information regarding his early years in Ohio, his service in the U.S. Navy during World War II, his success on the stage and screen, his work with charities and business ventures, and his exploits in auto racing is provided.
#28
Howard Stern
A Biography
2010
This revealing look at the life and career of Howard Stern examines his role as a champion of free speech and his amazing success at bringing his own unique brand of "reality" radio to the airwaves.
First Amendment rights, particularly freedom of speech, play an integral part in all modern means of communication. Howard Stern has tested the limits and pushed the boundaries of freedom of speech to the delight of some and the disgust of others. Howard A Biography explores this long-debated topic and sheds light on how one media star has made a significant difference.
Offering an engaging and insightful look at the life and career of radio's leading Shock Jock, the book explores Stern's youth, his first forays into radio, and his desire to move up in a competitive medium. Of course, it also covers his battles with the Federal Communications Commission, how he was finally able to sidestep the censors, and the significant changes the battle brought about in what is deemed acceptable on radio.
#29
Jackie Robinson
A Biography
2007
When the Brooklyn Dodgers recruited Jackie Robinson from the Negro Leagues' Kansas City Monarchs in 1947, it marked a turning point both in baseball and civil rights history. Robinson became the first African American to play in the Major Leagues, and in doing so, led generations of black players into the previously all-white world of professional baseball. As one of the greatest players professional baseball has ever seen, Robinson fought fiercely for civil rights on and off the diamond throughout his lifetime, and in doing so became a great American hero.
Mary Kay Linge recounts the extraordinary story of Robinson's life-from his early childhood in the South, to his college years at UCLA, to becoming a Hall of Famer and a major figure in the NAACP. In analyzing the surrounding social and cultural contexts of Robinson's time, this biography examines the legacy of a man who forever changed baseball. A timeline, statistical appendix, bibliography of print and electronic sources for further reading, and photographs enhance this biography.
#33
Madonna
A Biography
2007
As the Material Girl, Eva Perón in Evita, and most recently, queen of the disco floor, Madonna's transformations and assumed identities keep her fans wanting more. She has inspired university professors and cultural critics to enshrine her as a postmodern icon. Known for her persona as much as for her music, Madonna has stirred controversy through her use of religious and sexual depictions in her songs, music videos, concerts, and in one notorious publication. This biography traces Madonna's ambitious journey from a Midwest upbringing as part of a large family to achieving fame on a global scale. It also brings readers up to date on her latest incarnation as a wife and mother, living on a country estate in England. Students researching cultural studies topics will accurate information on the musician's life and body of work, as well as critical commentary on her impact and lasting significance as one of the most influential female entertainers of our time.
She has been the subject of countless magazines and newspaper stories around the world, whether for her sold-out concerts or as an advocate for Kabbalah, the spiritual movement rooted in Jewish mysticism. This book shares her story and provides a way to consider the influence Madonna has had through her ever-evolving career in shaping our popular culture. A timeline of significant events and a bibliography of print and electronic sources for additional research round out this volume.
#35
Chief Joseph
A Biography
2010
This biography offers a chronological presentation of the major events in Nez Perce history and in the life of one of their greatest leaders, Joseph.
Chief A Biography explores the world of the Nez Perce Indians from their entrance into the Columbia Plateau through their relations with the expanding United States. It recounts their attempt to accommodate the rapidly changing world around them, and it follows the life of Chief Joseph, one of their greatest peace leaders.
Readers will learn how interactions with Lewis and Clark at the beginning of the 19th century and the subsequent duplicity of white settlers and their government radically changed the Nez Perce way of life―and influenced Joseph's rise. Separating the real Chief Joseph from the myths that have grown around him, the book shows how he shepherded the Nez Perce people through the ordeals that confronted them, including the loss of their land and freedom and the persistent threats to the culture that had guided the Nez Perce for centuries.
#36
John Lennon
A Biography
2010
This biography tells the complete story of John Lennon's life, including the controversial influence of his music, art, and philosophy upon the world.
John Lennon was a singer, songwriter, activist, artist, and writer whose life and work left an indelible mark on rock music and the world. Lennon first became famous as the founding member of The Beatles, and his songwriting partnership with bandmate Paul McCartney remains legendary in the history of pop music. Lennon's creative work, which extended well beyond his years as a Beatle and lasted until his final days, still provides enjoyment and inspiration to millions around the world.
This biography provides a comprehensive account of John Lennon's life for students and general readers, integrating information from interviews conducted during his life with published accounts of Lennon from a range of perspectives. It covers the time from his birth in Liverpool in 1940 to his murder in New York City in 1980.
#39
Henry Louis Gates, Jr.
2012
This full-length biography explores the multifacetedOCoand altogether fascinatingOColife, opinions, and accomplishments of African American scholar and writer Henry Louis Gates, Jr."
#40
Jerry Garcia
A Biography
2009
This biography offers students and general readers an insightful look into Jerry Garcia's creative genius as a founding member of The Grateful Dead and the various influences on his work as he contributed to the countercultural movement in the United States.
As a founding member of The Grateful Dead, Jerry Garcia became famous for his work as a key creative force in this band. Known for free flowing jam sessions, psychedelic drug use, and a loyal fan base, The Grateful Dead combined a variety of genres, including blues, folk and country rock to create new and different sounds than those used by other popular bands at the time, including The Rolling Stones and The Beatles. Garcia contributed significantly to an era in American music that was influenced by social changes, war, and political strife. Yet Garcia's creative genius expanded beyond the fame that came as lead guitarist and vocalist for the Dead. From the time he was a young boy learning to play the piano in the Excelsior district of San Francisco, Garcia explored various genres and forms of music and visual art. This biography offers students and general readers an insightful look into Garcia's creative genius and the various influences on his work as he contributed to the counter-cultural movement in the United States.
#41
Michelle Obama
A Biography
2011
This book details the fascinating life story of Michelle Obama, emphasizing her own personal and professional accomplishments, her life partnership with President Barack Obama, and her distinctive approach to the role of First Lady.
Independent and supportive, elegant and down-to-earth, an accomplished professional and family anchor as her husband rose to the presidency, Michelle Obama is to many the consummate life partner in politics and the epitome of the 21st-century working mom. Michelle A Biography offers an unprecedented look at one of the most captivating women of our time, one who is sure to add her own distinctive legacy to the tradition of presidential wives.
Ranging across the full arc of Michelle Obama's life, this revealing biography tells the story of her family background―her great-great-grandfather was a slave―her modest Chicago upbringing, her education and well-established legal career, and her relationship with her husband before, during, and after he reached the pinnacle of American politics.
#43
The Earnhardts
A Biography
2009
The story of NASCAR's preeminent family and the multibillion dollar sport they helped create.
From mid-century dirt tracks to today's super speedways, The A Biography tells the remarkable story of a racing family―Dale, his father Ralph, and son Dale Jr.―whose careers span the full history of NASCAR and whose accomplishments define this unique American motorsport.
Drawing on extensive research, including interviews with friends, family, and sports writers covering the NASCAR scene, Gerry Souter follows the Earnhardts' story from Ralph's short track racing in cars he built himself to Dale's record-setting career and shocking death to Dale Jr.'s emergence as one of the sport's most popular figures today. Through the lives of the Earnhardts, and their unmatched legacy of hard work and victory, readers see American stock car racing evolve from its rural Southern roots into a nationwide phenomenon.
#45
Rosa Parks
A Biography
2011
"Rosa Parks: A Biography" captures the story of this remarkable woman like no other biography of her before it. It examines the entire scope of Rosa Parks' life, from her birth in 1913 in Tuskegee, Alabama to her 1943 enrollment in the Montgomery NAACP to the dramatic events of the 1960s, and her continuing work up to her death in 2005.
Each chapter provides an exploration of a period in Parks' life, portraying the people, places, and events that shaped and were shaped by her. Readers will see in Parks, not an inadvertent tripwire of history, but a woman whose lifelong struggle against racism led her inexorably to a moment where she took a courageous stand by sitting down and not moving.
#46
Jon Stewart
A Biography
2013
This biography profiles Jon Stewart, television's most incisive deliverer of the fake news. As the host of The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, he has attracted a vast audience that sees him as one of the few credible sources of cultural critique TV.
As comfortable and adept at interviewing Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf, U.S. President Barack Obama, activist Al Sharpton, or political commentator Bill O'Reilly as he is chatting with Angelina Jolie, Bill Gates, or Denis Leary, Jon Stewart has emerged as one of the hottest television personalities and most powerful media icons of the 21st century. The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, currently Comedy Central's longest running show, has launched the successful careers of Stephen Colbert (host of The Colbert Report ) and Steve Carell (star of The 40 Year Old Virgin and the popular television series The Office ), and an appearance on Stewart's half-hour segment is coveted by both political figures and Hollywood celebrities as one of the most important places to be seen.
Well-read, impossibly well-versed in current events, charismatic, and self-deprecating, Stewart has successfully garnered a broad-based following of viewers, from teens to senior citizens. Ideal for students and general readers alike, this biography profiles the always controversial, always prepared Stewart, including his early life, his first break in comedy, and his meteoric rise to joining an elite group of well-known and often-quoted media personalities.
#47
Beyoncé Knowles
A Biography
2009
Although Beyoncé Knowles is not yet 30, the sensual superstar has already succeeded on many as a dancer, singer, composer, model, music producer, video director and actress. Like rap star/entrepreneur Jay-Z, with whom Beyoncé recently married, she has evolved into a businesswoman, who with her designer-mother, Tina Knowles, markets Beyoncé's personal fashion line, House of Dereon. The multi-talented, global entertainer lends her name and image to many commercial and philanthropic ventures. She is the spokeswoman for L'Oreal and appears in ads for Pepsi and Ford.
This biography tells the story of a young, talented woman's meteoric rise in the entertainment industry. From a shy, demure Catholic schoolgirl growing up in Houston, Texas, Beyoncé Knowles eventually morphed into the first African-American woman to win the Songwriter of the Year Award from the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers Pop Music Awards. The once-shy suburban schoolgirl has gone far beyond her original dream of becoming a first-rate musician and vocalist. With the assistance of her manager-father―former Xerox executive Mathew Knowles―and as lead singer of the R&B girl group Destiny's Child (the world's all-time bestselling female group), Beyoncé has won 10 Grammy Awards and two Golden Globe nominations. Her albums have reached more than 20 million people worldwide, and she has become a cultural icon to music lovers everywhere as well as a role model for young women. Author Janice Arenofsky gives students and general readers alike an insightful look at a music and fashion icon who has a unique niche in popular culture today. Complete with photos, a timeline, and a thorough bibliography.
#48
John F. Kennedy
A Biography
2011
This biography examines the life and political career of a president whose idealism and policies continue to impact the world today despite his brief time in office.
John F. Kennedy is revered as one of the United States' most iconic and inspirational presidents. Among his historic accomplishments, however, Kennedy was also a human being who made tragic miscalculations in the Bay of Pigs fiasco, publicly expressed doubts about democracy, and supported the use of fear-based tactics to manipulate the American people.
John F. A Biography provides background information about the Kennedy family in the early 20th century, describes the rise of Joseph P. Kennedy as a major figure in American life, and chronicles the subsequent emergence of his second son, John F. Kennedy, as a leading figure in American politics. The authors provide a fascinating look at how the characteristics of a 23-year-old John F. Kennedy in 1940 were borne out in his performance as president two decades later.
#52
Justin Timberlake
A Biography
2010
This revealing biography of pop star Justin Timberlake documents his background, childhood career, achievements, and disappointments.
From his first taste of fame as an 11-year-old contestant on the TV show Star Search to making it big with the boy-band 'N Sync and his subsequent solo career to the notoriety following the 2004 Super Bowl halftime performance "incident" with Janet Jackson, this biography presents an accurate overview of Justin Timberlake's life and impact on popular culture.
Justin A Biography gives students access to unbiased insight into how Timberlake achieved stardom. The narrative tone and manageable length make this book easy to read, while the accurate presentation of the historical context of his life's events makes it engaging and relevant for young readers. This title will appeal to teen readers due to their natural interest in pop icons. In addition, the enviable success of Timberlake's career path can serve as a source of inspiration and hope for young adults.
#53
Jesse Jackson
A Biography
2005
Jesse Jackson, a powerful orator and indefatigable organizer, has been one of the most dynamic forces for social and political action in both the national and international arenas, campaigning for human rights and social justice. Through such social action projects as Operation Breadbasket, Operation PUSH, and the Rainbow Coalition, as well as his own candidacy for the Democratic nomination for president in 1984 and 1988, Jackson became a worldwide spokesman for the minorities, marginalized, and poor. This biography traces his rise from his single-parent upbringing in Greenville, South Carolina, through his civil rights work with Martin Luther King Jr., to social and political leadership, audacious international diplomacy, and continued efforts to keep hope alive. It also covers his personal struggles and family life and includes commentary from those who have known him over the years.
Jesse Jackson, a powerful orator and indefatigable organizer, has been one of the most dynamic forces for social and political action in both the national and international arenas, campaigning for human rights and social justice. Through such social action projects as Operation Breadbasket, Operation PUSH, and the Rainbow Coalition, as well as his own candidacy for the Democratic nomination for president in 1984 and 1988, Jackson became a worldwide spokesman for the minorities, marginalized, and poor. This biography traces his rise from his single-parent upbringing in Greenville, South Carolina, through his civil rights work with Martin Luther King Jr., to social and political leadership, audacious international diplomacy, and continued efforts to keep hope alive. It also covers his personal struggles and family life and includes commentary from those who have known him over the years.
For decades, Reverend Jesse Jackson has been the nation's foremost African-American activist and leader. He has used his considerable talent, charisma, and ambition with great success, and the many accomplishments are discussed here. Readers will learn how Jackson has manipulated the system to fight for economic justice and political goals, breaking new ground. He and his actions have also engendered towering animosity, resentment, and scorn, and critical views of him are presented as well. Numerous photos complement the biography.
#54
John McCain
A Biography
2009
A rebel and risk-taker from childhood, John McCain―son and grandson of admirals―nevertheless chose to follow the traditional path marked out for him in the military. Nearly six years in a North Vietnamese prison tested his resolve and proved his extraordinary resilience and will to survive. Coming to Congress, McCain found that making his way in politics demanded a different set of survival skills, and he grew accustomed to the corridors of power while striving to keep his independence. This lively biography traces McCain's unlikely ascent to the verge of attaining the nation's highest office while never ceasing to challenge himself and others to serve a cause greater than self-interest.
#55
Audrey Hepburn
A Biography
2009
From the moment she appeared on the American silver screen as a runaway princess in Roman Holiday, Audrey Hepburn was beloved by critics and audiences alike. From her childhood activism in the Dutch resistance movement during World War II, to her extensive film career, her charity work for UNICEF, and her roles as a wife, mother, and fashion icon, Audrey Hepburn's place in American cultural history is brought to life for a new generation of readers. Featuring illustrations, a timeline of events, a selected bibliography, and an appendix of Hepburn's film, stage, and TV appearances, this volume will appeal to students of American studies, American history, film, and popular culture.
A graceful and diminutive presence onscreen, Hepburn breathed life into some of the most iconic film roles in Hollywood history. To study her life is to study American fashion and culture, especially classic films of the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Her story also illuminates the experience of everyday people living in Europe during World War II, and the possibilities of modern-day activism as exemplified in her work for UNICEF in the 80s and early 90s. From her childhood activism in the Dutch resistance movement during World War II, to her extensive film career, her charity work for UNICEF.
With entertaining flair, this engaging biography explores the life and work of one of the most beloved actresses ever to grace the stage and screen. Readers will explore the German occupation of her hometown during World War II and her anti-Nazi resistance activities, her early stage roles and her discovery by French novelist Colette, who cast her in the stage production of Gigi, her status as fashion icon, and a behind-the-scenes look into the casting and filming of some of her most well-known films, including Breakfast at Tiffany's, Sabrina, and My Fair Lady .
#56
Alex Rodriguez
A Biography
2007
Most sports watchers' projections for Alex Rodriguez's final stats rank him with men such as Lou Gehrig, Ted Williams, Babe Ruth, and Hank Aaron. A veritable baseball wunderkind, this Dominican-American ball player has broken records from the moment he stepped on the diamond. In this engaging biography author Wayne Stewart describes the highlights of A-Rod's record-setting career and examines the reasons for the unprecedented impact he has had on the game.
Recruited right out of high school in 1993, his first year in pro ball was a whirlwind with Rodriguez making not only his minor league debut, but getting his first taste of big-league ball as a Seattle Mariner―all by the age of just 18. Fast forward to 2000 when A-Rod signed a 10-year deal with the Texas Rangers calling for a total salary of $252 million, the most lucrative deal in baseball. In 2003 he became the youngest player ever to reach the 300 home run circle. Just two years later became the youngest player ever to reach the 400 home run strata. If baseball history is any indication, A-Rod's days of record-breaking performances are far from over. This fair-minded and well-researched biography traces A-Rod from his childhood growing up in Miami to his career with the New York Yankees. Personal interests, such as his donations of both time and money to such causes as the Boys and Girls Club, are covered in detail. Also included is a timeline, photographs, and career statistics, which will give the reader insight into Rodriguez's place in the history of the game as well as how he stacks up against baseball's all-time greatest players.
#57
Fidel Castro
A Biography
2004
Fidel Castro has ruled Cuba for over 40 years, yet he remains one of the world's most complex leaders. Rebellious at an early age, he attemped to organize a strike of sugar workers against his father as a teenager. By his early twenties, he made it clear that he was an opponent of the dictatorship of Fulgencio Batista and wanted a social change for Cuba. His leadership of the successful revolution in 1959 led him to political power behind the support of the Cuban people. For decades critics have predicted his fall from power, but he remains the uncontested leader.
Castro's life and career are described in this biography, including his childhood, family, education, and political endeavors. Readers will learn of his attendance at Havana Law School, his imprisonment, his rise to political power, along with history topics and events such as communism, the Bay of Pigs invasion, and the Cuban missile crisis. A timeline provides a comprehensive list of important events in his life, and a bibliography covers print and electronic sources for further research.
#60
Ellen DeGeneres
A Biography
2008
In 1997 Ellen DeGeneres made television history when she came out to the American public on her nationally syndicated sitcom. In spite of the controversy stirred by this personal revelation, Ellen DeGeneres has gone on to become on one the most popular personalities in Hollywood. With her own highly rated daily talk show, a lucrative ad campaign with American Express, and a successful turn as Oscar host to her credit, she has become one of America's leading female comedians and won her has place a household name. High profile romances with actresses Anne Heche and fiancé Portia de Rossi, have also made a her an unassuming champion for gay and lesbian rights. Ellen Degeneres' monumental success, however, belies a painful childhood and uncertain career beginnings. This comprehensive and intriguing biography explores the life events that shaped the hilarious public figure we know today.
Complete with a chronology of significant events, illustrations, and a bibliography of print and electronic resources, this detailed biography is ideal for general readers looking to learn more about their favorite star or for those seeking information on groundbreaking members of the gay and lesbian community.
#61
Condoleezza Rice
A Biography
2006
Condoleezza Rice's story, her experiences, and her contributions to our society, offer a unique opportunity to consider the social and historical discourses of our times, both past and present. Rice, a descendent of slaves who rose to become one of the most influential women in the world, represents many of the hopes, conflicts, and questions that characterize the beginning of the 21st century in American society. Her story allows the telling of many others that have intersected with Rice's across the course of American history. The time period covered in this book (1954-2005) was a time of struggle for many in the United States and around the world. Civil rights, equal rights, the Cold War, civil wars, the war on drugs, illiteracy, and terrorism, all played out around the world as Rice moved into increasingly powerful and influential posts.
By the time Condoleezza Rice was sworn in as the first African American woman to serve as Secretary of State, she was clearly one of the most powerful women in the world, a 'rock star' politician whose name was recognized the world over. She was featured on the cover of magazines and newspapers around the world, and commentators noted her clothing and sense of style as much as they did her politics. With sharp intelligence and fierce loyalty to President George W. Bush, Rice exerted a key influence on many of the international policies that affected our times. A timeline describes significant events in Rice's life, and a bibliography lists print and electronic sources for additional research.
#62
Jennifer Lopez
A Biography
2000
One of Hollywood's first openly Latin stars, Jennifer Lopez has held fast to her New York Bronx roots, while rising above them to become the highest paid Latina actress in history. Her expansive body of work-ranging from film, music, and dance to television production and fashion-has broken down long-standing racial barriers and earned her a place in Forbes ' 2007 list of the Top 20 Richest Women in Entertainment. In spite of several box office and a dramatic personal life that has made her the frequent target of tabloid gossip, this determined artist has managed to retain her place at the top of her field and stands poised to make more significant contributions to the entertainment industry.
Since bursting into the spotlight with her portrayal of deceased Latin superstar Selena in 1997, Jennifer Lopez has captivated the public eye and carved a niche for herself among Hollywood's elite. One of Hollywood's first openly Latin stars, Jennifer Lopez has held fast to her New York Bronx roots, while rising above them to become the highest paid Latina actress in history. Her expansive body of work-ranging from film, music, and dance to television production and fashion-has broken down long-standing racial barriers and earned her a place in Forbes ' 2007 list of the Top 20 Richest Women in Entertainment. Her dramatic personal life-highlighted by a relationship with bad-boy Sean Puffy Combs, two divorces, a highly-publicized broken engagement to Ben Affleck, and marriage to Latin singer Marc Anthony-has earned her as much attention as her career and made her a frequent subject of tabloid gossip. Negative press and several box office flops, however, have done little to diminish J.Lo's popularity. This determined artist has managed hold her place at the top of her field and stand poised to make more important contributions to the entertainment industry.
Hollywood journalist Kathleen Tracy explores Jennifer Lopez as both an individual and an entertainer, chronicling the triumphs and pitfalls of her groundbreaking career and intriguing personal life. Complete with a chronology of significant events, illustrations, and a bibliography of print and electronic resources, this detailed biography is ideal for general readers looking to learn more about their favorite star or for students researching the role of race in America's entertainment business.
#63
Sacagawea
A Biography
2008
Sacagawea, kidnapped as an adolescent and sold as a slave to a French-Canadian fur trader, is best known for her role as interpreter and symbol of goodwill for Lewis and Clark on their journey west. Despite her pivotal role in this era of Manifest Destiny and blending cultures, much of her ensuing life story remains uncertain, thanks to a larger focus on Lewis and Clark themselves, as well as the perpetuation of legend over fact in several 20th century movies and publications. This concise and readable biography offers an objective treatment of Sacagawea's childhood, her journey with Lewis and Clark, her later life, her explorer son, and the mythology surrounding her death and legacy. As the Lewis and Clark expedition is heavily represented in the U.S. history curriculum, this much-needed volume fills a gap on the reference shelves and supplements American history and Native American studies curricula. Lively narrative chapters are supplemented with a timeline, photos, print and nonprint bibliography, and an index.
As the Lewis and Clark expedition is heavily represented in the U.S. history curriculum, this much-needed volume fills a gap on the reference shelves and supplements Native American studies curricula. The subject matter directly supports the National Standards for U.S. history Era 4: Expansion and Reform (1801-1861). Lively narrative chapters are supplemented with a timeline, photos, print and nonprint bibliography, and an index.
#64
Rachel Carson
A Biography
2004
Few people have had as great an impact on the modern environmental movement as has the great writer and scientist Rachel Carson. This readable and up-to-date biography traces the famous environmentalist's development as a writer from earliest childhood through the publication of her best-known work Silent Spring (1962). Although Carson is now remembered almost exclusively for Silent Spring, which exposed the dangers of pesticides, this book was preceded by three best-sellers about the ocean Under the Sea-Wind (1941), The Edge of the Sea (1955), and The Sea Around Us (1951) which catapulted her to fame. In Rachel A Biography, Carson emerges as a talented scientist and exceptional writer who was able to share her sense of wonder about nature with both scientists and the general public.
Carson's great love of both writing and nature emerged at a young age and enabled her to overcome numerous obstacles in her life. She made a critical decision to switch her major in college from English to biology, she suffered financial problems during the Depression, and family and work responsibilities left her little time to write. She struggled for years to become a writer, working in relative obscurity for 15 years at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service writing pamphlets and brochures. She also endured harsh criticism of Silent Spring toward the end of her life while terribly ill. This biography shows how Carson overcame these difficulties and persevered to become one of the most influential writers of the last half of the 20th century. Her legacy as a champion of nature continues 50 years after her death.
#65
Frida Kahlo
A Biography
2008
Frida Kahlo was born in 1907 to parents of German and Spanish descent, in Coyoacan, outside Mexico City. After contracting polio at age six, Frida also suffered severe injuries in a bus accident. Her time spent in recovery turned her toward a painting career. These experiences, combined with a difficult marriage to the artist Diego Rivera, generated vibrant works depicting Frida's experiences with pain as well as the symbolism and spirit of Mexican culture. Though she died in 1954, interest in her work continues to grow, with museum exhibitions and publications around the world. This biography will introduce art students and adult readers to one of the Latino culture's most beloved artists.
In 2002, the film Frida introduced the artist and her works to a new audience. In 2007, the 100th anniversary of Kahlo's birth, a major exhibition of her work was held at the Museum of the Fine Arts Palace in Mexico. In 2007 through 2008, another major exhibition began its journey to museums throughout the United States.
#71
Paris Hilton
A Biography
2011
This revealing portrait of the real Paris Hilton gets underneath the hype and hate, the glamour and greed.
Unlike other biographies that range from the exposé to the gushing, Paris A Biography is both detailed and objective. It covers Paris' checkered family history, her privileged yet surprisingly unassuming upbringing, and her explosion with sister Nicky as "It Girls" on the international social scene. Readers will learn how her family influenced her, why she made the decision to step into the limelight, and why she continues today, despite her many critics and setbacks.
Each chapter of the biography provides an in-depth view of a specific aspect of Paris' her relationship with men and the media, how she turned herself around emotionally and projected a new image, and what makes her such a smart businesswoman. The book also looks at darker moments, including the sex tape, her jail time, and her publicity faux pas. In the end, readers will understand what makes this complex young woman tick―and have a better sense of what it is like to walk a mile in her Manolo Blahniks.
#77
Lance Armstrong
A Biography
2011
The son of a single mother and born in a run-down housing project, American athlete Lance Armstrong emerged from decidedly modest beginnings. Four decades later, Armstrong has established himself as not only one of the world's greatest and most successful athletes, but also as an activist for charitable causes. Through the Lance Armstrong Foundation, Armstrong supports cancer research and treatment while he serves as the ultimate inspiration for other athletes and cancer survivors.—Lance Armstrong: A Biography provides a detailed treatment of Armstrong's life, from the lasting influences of his boyhood and the early years of his competitive training, to his battle with cancer, his divorce, and the birth of his fifth child during his second comeback to professional cycling. The book portrays him both as a champion athlete and a family man, and gives a candid assessment of his career, including Armstrong's less successful periods.
#80
Justin Timberlake
A Biography: A Biography
2010
This revealing biography of pop star Justin Timberlake documents his background, childhood career, achievements, and disappointments.
#81
Toni Morrison
A Biography
2009
This book is a revealing look at the life and work of Nobel laureate Toni Morrison.
Toni A Biography looks at the remarkable life of an essential American novelist, whose critically acclaimed, bestselling books offer lively, powerful depictions of black America.
Toni Morrison follows the life of the woman born Chloe Ardelia Wofford from her culturally rich childhood in Lorrain, OH, through her spectacular rise as a novelist, educator, and public intellectual. The book also serves as a basic introduction to the literary influences that shaped Morrison's writing, from the early novels to the breakout success of Song of Solomon ; from the overwhelming achievement of Beloved to her most recent book, A Mercy . The book also examines Morrison's other writing―criticism, essays, edited volumes, children's books―as well as her academic career, her work as an editor at Random House, and her political activism, most notably in the 2008 presidential campaign.
#83
Will Smith
A Biography
2009
This book offers the life story of the actor and musician who is perhaps the most bankable star in Hollywood today.
How did Will Smith rise to the top of the Hollywood A-list? Find out with this revealing look at the life of an extraordinarily talented and appealing superstar.
Will A Biography portrays Smith's West Philadelphia upbringing, his arrival and ascent in Hollywood, and his family life with wife and fellow actor, Jada Pinkett, and their children. It covers Smith's successes in three music, where his partnership with childhood friend DJ Jazzy Jeff culminated in the first ever Grammy for rap; the wildly popular television show, "The Fresh Prince of Bel Air;" and his movie successes, from roles in blockbusters like Independence Day, Men in Black, and I Am Legend, to critically acclaimed, award-winning performances in Ali and The Pursuit of Happyness . The book also details his increasing presence as a film producer.
#85
Geronimo
A Biography
2009
The first biography of Geronimo aimed at the high school and undergraduate student audience, this book provides a balanced account of Geronimo's life in the context of key historical and cultural events of his lifetime.
A revered Apache spiritual and military leader and a recurring figure in pop culture lore, Geronimo was a key figure during the settlement of the American Southwest. He led one of the last major independent Indian uprisings and personified the struggle of Native Americans during westward expansion. A Biography explores the life of this legendary leader, a man who has become an icon of the courageous―and doomed―struggle of the Native Americans.
This biography follows Geronimo's life from his traditional Apache upbringing to his final days as a celebrity prisoner of war. It discusses the historical and social forces at work during the period, including Native American traditions and lifeways. It also shows how Geronimo's surrender in 1886 marked the end of the traditional Native American way of life. No longer free to roam the lands of their forefathers, Indians faced a future of captivity and a struggle to maintain their identity and traditions.
#86
Ted Turner
A Biography
2009
This book chronicles the life story of Ted Turner―cable television mogul, successful baseball team owner, and fascinating public figure.
Ted A Biography tells the story of a man whose wide range of accomplishments have led to a Man of the Year award from Time magazine, induction into the Advertising Hall of Fame, and numerous awards and honorary degrees for humanitarian, philanthropic, and environmental activism.
Ted Turner shows how this remarkable, unpredictable man built the risky purchase of a small Atlanta UHF station into a cable television juggernaut, as well as how Turner transformed the Atlanta Braves from a lowly franchise to one of baseball's most popular and successful teams. The book also highlights other fascinating aspects of Turner's life, including his record-breaking career as a yachtsman, his extraordinary efforts to save the American bison, his headline-making marriage to Jane Fonda, and his sometimes contradictory, often controversial public persona.
#87
Langston Hughes
A Biography
2004
This biography traces Hughes' life and artistic development, from his early years of isolation, which fostered his fierce independence, to his prolific life as a poet, playwright, lyricist, and journalist. Hughes' inspiring story is told through 21 engaging chapters, each providing a fascinating vignette of the artistic, personal, and political associations that shaped his life. Recounted are the pivotal developments in his literary career, with all its struggles and rewards, as well as his travel adventures to Africa, Europe, and Asia, and his political commitments to fight fascism as well as racism.
Langston Hughes was raised by a grandmother who actively aided the Underground Railroad, and his first forays into poetry reflected personal tales of slavery and heroism. Through his poetry, Hughes lived up to a proud tradition and continued the uplifting legacy of his race. He was a renaissance man in nearly every aspect of his life, and his name has become synonymous with the Harlem Renaissance movement he helped launch. This biography traces Hughes' life and artistic development, from his early years of isolation, which fostered his fierce independence, to his prolific life as a poet, playwright, lyricist, and journalist. Hughes' inspiring story is told through 21 engaging chapters, each providing a fascinating vignette of the artistic, personal, and political associations that shaped his life.
Recounted are the pivotal developments in his literary career, with all its struggles and rewards, as well as his travel adventures to Africa, Europe, and Asia, and his political commitments to fight fascism as well as racism. A timeline, a selected bibliography of biographical and critical sources, and a complete list of Hughes' writings complete the volume.
#90
Sojourner Truth
A Biography
2011
This simple narrative of an extraordinary life explores the power of a disinterested commitment to right and truth.
Sojourner A Biography traces this remarkable woman's life from her birth through adulthood and to her death in 1883. Drawing from public pronouncements, personal correspondence, and journalistic accounts of key historical actors, it follows her extraordinary career and sets the events of her life in the larger context of U.S. social and political history.
The years during which Truth lived bore witness to tremendous social and religious ferment in the United States, including, of course, the Civil War. Truth was directly involved, indeed an influential figure, in many contentious issues of the period, from slavery and abolition to religious revivalism, women's rights, temperance, racial reconciliation, and more. Her story serves as a prism through which readers will better understand how these complex matters were adjudicated in 19th-century America. More than that, her life demonstrates what courage, character, and principle can accomplish against all odds.
#91
Diego Rivera
A Biography
2011
This revealing biography covers the life and art of painter Diego Rivera.
Diego A Biography presents a concise but substantial biography of the famous and controversial Mexican artist. Chronologically arranged, the book examines Rivera's childhood and artistic formation (1886–1906), his European period (1907–1921), and his murals of the 1920s. It looks at the work he did in the United States (1930–1933) and follows his career from his subsequent return to Mexico through his death in 1957.
Drawing from primary source materials, the book reveals facts about Rivera's life that are not well known or have not been widely discussed before. It explores his tempestuous marriage to renowned painter Frida Kahlo and looks at controversial works, such as Rivera's 1933 mural for the RCA Building at Rockefeller Center in Manhattan, which featured a portrait of Communist party leader Vladimir Lenin, and was officially destroyed the following year.
#92
Carlos Santana
A Biography
2009
As eclectic and paradoxical as its subject, this is the first and only book about Carlos Santana that reveals the full sweep of his musical odyssey.
Carlos A Biography explores the life and music of this extraordinary guitarist, ranging from his professional beginnings―his first regular gig was at a Tijuana strip club―and early success in San Francisco to the definitive songs and albums of the 1970s, the commercial resurgence with 1999's Supernatural, his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and his current work with producer Bill Laswell.
Unlike other biographies, this book offers a comprehensive look at Santana's transitions through a variety of musical styles beyond rock, including blues, salsa, jazz, and world music. It also portrays Santana as very much a child of the eclectic musical culture of the 1960s, as well as showing the profound influence of the New Age movement on Santana's life and music.
#94
Clint Eastwood
A Biography
2014
Clint Eastwood―actor, director, composer, musician, and politician―is undeniably one of the most prolific and accomplished celebrities of the modern age. This book provides insights into Eastwood's life and entire career, from early television appearances to recent award-winning films.
He established himself early in his acting career as "the strong silent type" and became known as the "actor's director." In a career that spans seven decades, Eastwood's work has been influential for multiple generations of film audiences as well as actors, directors, and producers. This biography investigates the man who made his characters' lines such as "Go ahead―make my day" and "Get off my lawn" unforgettable, and shows why his movie roles and the films he directed are honored, studied, quoted, and remembered.
The book describes everything from Eastwood's formative years and early days as a struggling actor to his family and personal life to his lifelong love of jazz music and his political leanings. The chapters describe not only his tremendous accomplishments and countless successes but also his notable failures―coverage that will intrigue readers interested in the film industry, in the acting craft, and in enduring popular cultural icons.
#95
Arnold Schwarzenegger
A Biography
2006
From his role in The Terminator to his more recent work as Governator of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger has played a major role in American popular culture. This accessible and entertaining biography traces the trajectory of Arnold's career-sports figure turned movie star turned entrepreneur turned politician. Elected as governor of California in 2003, Arnold Schwarzenegger now dramatically and vividly represents the determination and, to a great extent, the relentlessness necessary for achieving great fame, political power, and iconic status. While many readers will have read about his benchmark achievements, this biography will reveal the surprising complexities behind the public scenes and put them into a larger cultural context. Photos and a timeline of significant events round out this insightful biography.
From his role in The Terminator to his more recent work as Governator of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger has played a major role in American popular culture. This biography traces the fascinating trajectory of Arnold's career-sports figure turned movie star turned entrepreneur turned politician. Elected as governor of California in 2003, Arnold Schwarzenegger now dramatically and vividly represents the determination and, to a great extent, the relentlessness necessary for achieving great fame, political power, and iconic status.
Arnold's life has been characterized by public notoriety. While many readers will have heard or read about his benchmark achievements, this biography will reveal the surprising complexities behind the public scenes and put them into a larger cultural context. Photos and a timeline of significant events round out this entertaining and insightful biography.
#97
LeBron James
A Biography
2008
LeBron James is simultaneously on the cutting edge of basketball greatness and as a cultural icon. Through the international exposure of the National Basketball Association and its televised games in more than 100 countries, and as a global marketing presence, the star of the Cleveland Cavaliers is rapidly becoming one of the world's most familiar faces. This biography traces the key events in the life of LeBron James during his dizzying rise to fame in high school to his emergence as the first overall pick in the NBA draft as an 18-year-old, to his carrying the underdog Cavaliers to the 2007 NBA Finals.
Hyped relentlessly from the time he was a high school sophomore in Ohio, James has lived up to all advance billing and with his charm, smile, and extraordinary basketball skills. James' all-around talent and unselfishness on the court are the trademarks of his play that have made him one of the most feared scorers in the league, but also one of its most versatile rebounders and passers. This biography offers a well-rounded portrait James from the difficulties encountered being raised by a single mother and overcoming poverty, which at times caused the family to move from home to home. Lew Freedman of the Chicago Tribune chronicles the milestones in the life of LeBron James during his dizzying rise to fame. Also highlighted are James' remarkable endorsement deals, particularly his $90 million deal with Nike. The volume is rounded out with a timeline and a bibliography of print and electronic sources to provide suggested readings for students and sports fans alike.
#99
Ulysses S. Grant
A Biography
2012
Ulysses S. Grant: A Biography takes an in-depth look at one of the most well-known figures to emerge from the American Civil War, the famed Union commander and 18th President of the United States who has become an iconic part of our nation's history.
The book provides a balanced overview that encompasses all the major events of Grant's life as well as his ancestry, portraying him as a common man who endured defeats and setbacks instead of a flawless noble hero. It accurately chronicles his life as it took place and tells a story of perseverance that illuminates Grant's successes as a testimony to determination and pluck rather than the result of luck or raw talent. This work will be especially helpful to high school and college-age audiences, and can be enjoyed by anyone interested in the Civil War period.
#101
Franklin D. Roosevelt
A Biography
2000
A brief, thorough introduction to the life and times of the most influential and effective president in modern America, this volume is ideal for students researching the Great Depression or World War II.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt was one of the best and most influential presidents in U.S. history. Successfully guiding the stricken nation through the Great Depression and World War II, FDR also forever changed the office of the President of the United States and the future course of American politics. The scion of a wealthy upstate New York family, and cousin to President Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin Roosevelt was beloved by ordinary Americans and reviled by the elite as a class traitor for his New Deal policies. Here, FDR's life from childhood to midlife struggle with crippling polio to his death in office in 1944 is detailed, offering both personal and public perspectives.
Starting with his privileged prep school and Harvard upbringing, readers follow this masterful politician's development as New York senator and Assistant Secretary of the Navy during World War I. During a brief retreat from the public eye, Roosevelt is struck by polio and regroups personally and professionally. Next comes his triumphant return to national politics and his election to president in 1932. The pivotal years during which he was elected president an unprecedented four times during the Depression and World War II round out the final third of the book. An annotated bibliography and index conclude the work.
#102
Coretta Scott King
A Biography
2009
Coretta Scott was committed to social justice long before she met and married Martin Luther King, Jr. She shared in all the dangers that King's prominence in the civil rights movement brought, and she saw herself as full partner in the movement. Yet she generally remained in the background, supporting King's work and caring for their children, until his assassination transformed her into a movement leader in her own founder of the King Center, leader of a mass demonstration for a renewed national commitment to nonviolent social change, force behind the establishment of the national holiday bearing her husband's name. This book follows the trajectory of Coretta Scott King's tumultuous life at the heart of the most important American social movement of the 20th century.
Coretta Scott was committed to social justice long before she met and married Martin Luther King, Jr. She shared in all the dangers that King's prominence in the civil rights movement brought, and she saw herself as full partner in the movement. Yet she generally remained in the background, supporting King's work and caring for their children, until his assassination transformed her into a movement leader in her own founder of the King Center, leader of a mass demonstration for a renewed national commitment to nonviolent social change, force behind the establishment of the national holiday bearing her husband's name. This book follows the trajectory of Coretta Scott King's tumultuous life at the heart of the most important American social movement of the 20th century.
#104
George Washington Carver
A Biography
2011
This book strips away the myths surrounding the famed scientist George Washington Carver and portrays him as a brilliant, creative man who nonetheless possessed very human peculiarities and frailties.
This insightful work chronicles the life of George Washington Carver, the renowned African American scientist and teacher. George Washington A Biography begins with a discussion of the political and social circumstances in Missouri where Carver was born into slavery, circa 1864. Readers will follow Carver through his formal education to his decision to accept Booker T. Washington's offer to teach and do research at the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama.
The bulk of the volume focuses on Carver's career at Tuskegee, a career that spanned nearly five decades, from 1896 until Carver's death in January 1943.The book highlights Carver's major achievements, including his championing of crop rotation and the hundreds of products he created from peanuts, sweet potatoes, and other plants native to the South. In addition to Carver the scientist, students will meet Carver the man, who, for example, loved art and painted throughout his life.
#105
Tiger Woods
A Biography
2005
While golf is seldom thought of as a sport for minorities, Tiger Woods has made the sport appeal to a whole new demographic. When only a teenager, Woods accomplished many junior records in golf and enjoyed unusual attention for a young person. While not yet thirty years old, Woods' impact on American culture goes beyond the world of sports. And his celebrity status has made him probably the most recognized known athlete in the world. The opportunity that Woods got to display his talents were hard won by early African-American pioneers who were denied the right to play on the PGA Tour until 1961. This biography describes the life of a child prodigy who has so far lived up to his potential. It includes information on his early life, the influence of his parents, and the relationship between celebrity and the media. A timeline is included highlighting significant events in his life, along with a bibliography of print and electronic sources.
#108
Muhammad Ali
A Biography
2005
At the pinnacle of his boxing career during the 1960s and early 1970s, Muhammad Ali seemed to be a cultural symbol of the times. He has been viewed by some as a hero and by others as a rebel, but either way he is arguably the most famous American in the world. In this volume, Ali's life is described from his birth to the present, with an emphasis on his career through 1975. The work covers such topics as his various boxing matches including The Thrilla in Manilla, his religious conversion to the Nation of Islam, the Vietnam War, and his efforts to promote world peace.
#109
Hillary Clinton
A Biography
2007
A successful lawyer, child welfare advocate, health care activist, and the first First Lady elected to the U.S. Senate, Hillary Rodham Clinton has become one of the most iconic women in America today. This accessible biography explores her childhood and undergraduate political activism, and her work toward positive legislation for families, the elderly, and international women's issues―as a governor's wife, and later as First Lady. The final portions of the book are devoted to her two terms as a New York senator and her decision to run for president in 2008. One of the most current Hillary Clinton biographies at the high school level, this volume offers an insightful look into the life of a modern American icon and the role of women in politics today.
#111
Gabriel García Márquez
A Biography
2008
Master of magic realism, distinguished journalist and film critic, friend of world leaders ranging from Fidel Castro to Pres. Bill Clinton, Gabriel García Márquez improbably emerged from obscure beginnings to become an author more beloved of readers worldwide than any other living writer. His plots and protean characters plunge readers into the world of fable, yet their universal appeal, as this biography shows, is deeply rooted in the particularity of García Márquez's own idiosyncratic early life and his later wide travels, all undertaken with the restless curiosity and zest for life that he manages to evoke in his readers.
#113
Martha Stewart
A Biography
2007
In our fame-crazed culture, she's known as a diva of domesticity, entrepreneur, media magnate, and a living brand. She has legions of fans and at the same time, many detractors. To her fans, Martha Stewart is a homemaking maven, the do-it-yourself doyenne. To her detractors, she's taken the American woman backwards, espousing an unobtainable ideal. Love her or hate her, this much is true: Martha Stewart is a self-made woman who has risen from her modest upbringing to become one of the most successful and wealthiest businesswomen in history. This intriguing biography provides a balanced portrait of Martha Stewart's professional and personal life, from her childhood as the oldest daughter in a family of six children to her brief career as a securities trader, to becoming a bestselling author in the 1980s and CEO of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia in the 1990s. At the height of her power, Stewart was convicted of lying to investigators about a stock sale. Author Joanne F. Price documents the twists and turns of the trial, Stewart's five-month prison term, the highly publicized comeback following her release from prison in March 2005.
#115
Christina Aguilera
A Biography
2010
Meet Christina Aguilera through a thorough and honest portrayal of her life and career and the things that have influenced both.
Christina Aguilera appeared on Star Search when she was eight years old and hasn't stopped performing since. Christina A Biography traces the life and career of this exceptional performer, looking also at the historical, political, and philosophical influences that have affected and motivated her. Readers will learn about the little girl who used music to drown the horrors of domestic abuse, about the young television star who wowed audiences with a voice that spanned four octaves, and, of course, about the wildly successful artist of today.
Offering a complete and balanced portrayal, the book begins with Aguilera's childhood and ends with her current activities. It discusses early influences on her music, her father's role in fostering her interests, her evolution from squeaky-clean singer to sexy siren, and her maturation as a performer. In addition, readers will learn about her many awards and accomplishments, her generosity, and the importance of Latin culture to her work.
#116
Miley Cyrus
A Biography
2009
The enchanting story of the real life Hannah Montana and her stunning success as a film, television, and music superstar.
This biography tells the story of the real-life Hannah Montana, the daughter of country music superstar Billy Ray Cyrus, who has become an international phenomenon in her own right.
Miley Cyrus details the star's life from her Franklin, Tennessee, childhood to snagging the role of Hannah Montana from over 1,000 other hopefuls. The book also follows Cyrus' transition from a wholesome Disney icon to a more mature actress and musician, covering both her efforts to be a positive teen influence, and controversies such as Cyrus' photo shoot for Vanity Fair with her father. As an added bonus, the book offers a complete Hannah Montana episode guide as well as a complete discography of Cyrus' recordings as both Hannah and Miley.
#117
Frederick Douglass
A Biography
2011
Written for young adults, this biography of Frederick Douglass covers the life of the most famous black abolitionist and intellectual of the 19th century.
Frederick A Biography explores the life of the most famous black abolitionist and intellectual of the 19th century. The book covers the major developments of Douglass' life from his birth in 1818 through his time as a slave and his rise to prominence as the most famous black voice for freedom of his time.
The biography discusses Douglass' relationships with such figures as John Brown, the feminist Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and five presidents of the United States, including Abraham Lincoln. It analyzes his role in national politics before, during, and after the Civil War, and examines the way his life is tied to significant local, regional, and national events. By focusing on the importance of spirituality in Douglass' life, this revealing work adds to our understanding of the man, the way he saw himself, and the many things he accomplished.
#118
Elvis Presley
A Biography
2006
Almost 30 years after his death, Elvis Presley remains one of the most influential performers and recognized pop culture icons the world over. His then-unprecedented musical style-a fusion of blues, country, pop, bluegrass, and gospel-ushered in the age of rock n' roll and paved the way for generations of musicians and singers to follow. This biography will offer a seldom seen glimpse into the life of Elvis, tracing his family life, musical career, films, and legacy. The volume closes with a timeline and bibliography.
Not only did Elvis usher in a new genre of music, he also came to represent the growing dissatisfaction young people had with the mores and conventions of the restrictive 1950s. At a time when the top pop stars were Pat Boone and Andy Williams, Elvis' blatant sensuality on stage and his smoldering presence off it made him the anti-establishment poster boy. This biography offers a seldom seen glimpse into the life and career of Elvis, tracing his family life, musical career, films, and legacy. Today, the King lives on in popular culture-on Top 20 lists, in film and television, on the radio, in cyberspace, and yes, even in the countless performances by Elvis impersonators throughout the world.
#119
Harriet Tubman
A Biography
2011
Harriet Tubman was unconditionally committed to the abolition of slavery by any means, resulting in her willingness to help radical abolitionist John Brown prepare for his Harpers Ferry raid. She was the first woman to lead a military expedition in an American war, and she reinvented herself as a women's rights pioneer during the last part of her life.
#120
Peyton Manning
A Biography
2009
This revealing biography explores Indianapolis Colts' quarterback Peyton Manning as an athlete and as a man.
From the moment Peyton Manning arrived in the National Football League at the start of the 1998 season, he has been a numbers machine, completing passes at a dazzling rate and throwing touchdowns at a pinball-machine clip. Fans, teammates, and NFL foes alike have been in awe of what Manning's right arm has wrought.
In Peyton A Biography, sportswriter Lew Freedman chronicles Manning's life, from his childhood as the son of New Orleans Saints' quarterback Archie Manning through the many laurels won during his high school and college careers to his record-setting play with the Colts. The book also covers Manning's off-the-field activities as a product spokesperson, as well as his PeyBack Foundation, designed to help underprivileged children. Finally, it looks at the Manning football dynasty, including brother Eli Manning's success as the Super Bowl-winning quarterback for the New York Giants.
#123
Bono
A Biography
2012
Bono: A Biography takes a broad look at the pop star's life from his birth until the present day while also examining in depth the major events throughout his life. It covers Bono's accomplishments as part of U2 and also provides great detail about this complex celebrity figure's achievements outside of his involvement with his band—for example, his activities as a major spokesperson on issues of debt relief and poverty.
This book will be appreciated by general readers as well as high school students with an interest in pop culture and politics. Authored by a writer who has been a fan of U2 and Bono since his youth, this book cites a variety of sources to present an engaging and comprehensive portrait of this passionate musician's contributions to popular music and his ongoing commitment to issues of social justice.
#124
Billy Graham
A Biography
2004
Billy Graham, the high-profile evangelist, author, and founder of the diverse Billy Graham Evangelical Association, is now in his 80s. Yet his popularity is undiminished, thanks to new generations seeking Christian spiritual fulfillment. Graham is the superstar evangelist who has remained untainted by the financial and sex scandals that have plagued his evangelical peers. His movie-star looks, manner, and propriety have made him a role model, and have brought him into close contact with power. He has had a personal relationship with every president since Dwight D. Eisenhower, serving as an unofficial White House chaplain and, to some extent, policy advisor. This balanced biography covers Graham's life and work, his extraordinary accomplishments, and the criticisms he has endured.
It is clear that Graham will be remembered as a tireless crusader for his faith in popular revivals around the world. He has preached in nearly 200 countries, drawing the largest crowds for religious events in history, and made special efforts to reach audiences in Communist countries in Asia and the Soviet Union, which alienated fundamentalists.
#125
Pope Benedict XVI
A Biography
2013
Pope Benedict XVI: A Biography is an incisive exploration of the life and career of the current head of the Roman Catholic Church, with an emphasis on his theological positions and contributions as a theologian. Written by a Catholic priest who is an expert on Bavarian theology, the book looks at Benedict's family life, his teen years in Nazi Germany, his rise in the Church, and the beliefs that shape his Papacy.
Readers of this biography will learn that, in addition to his native German, Benedict XVI speaks Italian, French, English, Spanish, and Latin fluently, has a knowledge of Portuguese, and can read ancient Greek and biblical Hebrew. They will discover that he plays the piano and is very fond of cats. Perhaps surprisingly, they will find that during the time of the Second Vatican Council, the Pope was viewed as a reformer, and that he continues to regard himself as a supporter of the Council's teaching, holding, however, that those teachings have been widely misinterpreted. All this and more make for a fascinating—and instructive—reading experience.
#126
George W. Bush
A Biography
2010
This biography examines the life of George W. Bush―one of the most controversial U.S. presidents in recent history―before, during, and after his two terms in the White House.
George W. Bush served as president of the United States through some of the most pivotal and memorable events in our nation's history, including the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001; Hurricane Katrina; and the devastating economic downturn at the end of his second term. It is still too soon to decide how history will judge his administration. Despite suffering much ridicule and scorn for his linguistic gaffes, which became known as "Bushisms," the fact remains that this Yale graduate eventually rose to become a two-term Texas governor and a two-term U.S. president.
George W. A Biography provides a comprehensive view of Bush's life, beginning with his childhood and education, then examining his life as a businessman; his governorships of Texas; his tumultuous, two-term presidency of the United States; and his life after leaving the White House.
#127
Halle Berry
A Biography
2009
Outlines the life and career of Halle Berry and describes many of the roles that she performed on her way to becoming an Oscar award-winning actress.
#134
Malcolm X
A Biography
2013
This fresh biography unearths previously unpublished nuances about Malcolm X's life.
Malcolm A Biography is a historical and political analysis of the black leader's life and times, offering a detailed treatment of its subject's multifaceted story. Laid out chronologically, the book treats Malcolm's life from his birth through his childhood, adult life, work as a Civil Rights activist, and assassination.
Readers will learn about the torching of Malcolm's family's Lansing, MI, home when he was a young child and about the death of his father a few years later―both acts attributed to a white supremacist organization. They will learn of his participation in narcotics, prostitution, and gambling rings and of his arrest and prison term. And they will learn about his discovery of the teachings of Nation of Islam leader Elijah Muhammad, his conversion to the Muslim faith, his break with NOI, and his eventual espousal of faith in integration. Finally, the book looks at Malcolm's assassination and at his legacy and importance today.
#135
Jesse Owens
A Biography
2007
In an era far removed from the African American celebrity athletes of today, Olympic great Jesse Owens achieved fame by running faster and jumping farther than anyone in the world. Author Jacqueline Edmondson explores Owens' struggles and hard-earned accomplishments, as well as how he paved the way for future generations of athletes, including color-line shatterer Jackie Robinson.
It is difficult to imagine a time when African Americans were not part of professional sports in the United States. So many admired and beloved African-American athletes are national heroes Michael Jordan, Venus and Serena Williams, Tiger Woods, Florence Griffin-Joyner, Shaquille O'Neal, Muhammad Ali, to name a few. No such celebrity athletes appeared on magazine covers when Jesse Owens was a boy in the 1920s, no African American stars for him to hope to emulate. As the first American in track and field to win four gold medals in a single Olympic Games, Owens' athletic accomplishments were achieved despite seemingly insurmountable odds. This insightful biography tells the life story of a boy who grew up in poverty in the Deep South, won Olympic gold in Hitler's Germany by running faster and jumping farther than anyone in the world, and achieved fame and sometimes fortune in the midst of the Great Depression and a nation deeply divided by race.
Yet while Owens broke world records in track and gained attention from the general public, few athletes could understand his experiences, including the overt racial discrimination he faced-even fewer who understood the complexities his fame brought. Author Jacqueline Edmondson explores Owens' struggles and hard-earned accomplishments, as well as how he paved the way for future generations of athletes, including color line shatterer, Jackie Robinson. A timeline, photos, and extensive bibliography of print and electronic sources supplement this biography of one of the greatest Olympic athletes in American history.
#136
Eleanor Roosevelt
A Biography
2007
An astute politician, dedicated feminist, and champion of the rights of minorities, Eleanor Roosevelt was one of the most powerful women in 20th-century America. In an age when proper ladies were expected to supervise the household, dine with the right people, and entertain elegantly, she established careers as a teacher, social worker, and reformer, started a furniture factory, and became a successful journalist. Forming a unique political alliance with her husband, she played a key role in the Democratic party and shaped many of the programs of the New Deal. She later became an official delegate to the United Nations, where she served as chair of the Commission on Human Rights.
Written expressly for high school students, this biography clearly and concisely relates the life of Eleanor Roosevelt to the times in which she lived. A timeline presents the events of her life in summary form. This is followed by chapters on her youth, her marriage to Franklin Delano Roosevelt, her early work as a social activist, the rise of her power and influence, and her activities during and after World War II. The volume closes with a bibliographical essay.
#138
Sonia Sotomayor
2012
Sonia Sotomayor's love of teenage sleuth Nancy Drew influenced her dream of becoming a lawyer, a dream that culminated in her appointment as the third woman and first Hispanic to sit on the U.S. Supreme Court. Justice Sotomayor's story is a remarkable tale of courage, perseverance, and dedication as she rose from humble beginnings to take her place in the highest court in the land.
#140
W.E.B. Du Bois
A Biography
2009
This biography of W.E.B. Du Bois gives full measure to his entire life, including his controversial final decades.
This revealing biography captures the full life of W.E.B. Du Bois―historian, sociologist, author, editor―a leader in the fight to bring African Americans more fully into the American landscape as well as forceful proponent of them leaving America altogether and returning to Africa.
Drawing on extensive research, Gerald Horne, a leading authority on Du Bois and a versatile and prolific scholar in his own right, offers a fully rounded portrait of this accomplished and controversial figure, including the often overlooked final decades without which no portrait of Du Bois could be complete. The book also highlights Du Bois' relationships with and influence upon other leading civil rights activists both during, and subsequent to, his extraordinarily long life, including Booker T. Washington, Frederick Douglas, Marcus Garvey, Martin Luther King, Malcolm X, and Jesse Jackson.
#141
Langston Hughes
A Biography
2004
This biography traces Hughes' life and artistic development, from his early years of isolation, which fostered his fierce independence, to his prolific life as a poet, playwright, lyricist, and journalist. Hughes' inspiring story is told through 21 engaging chapters, each providing a fascinating vignette of the artistic, personal, and political associations that shaped his life. Recounted are the pivotal developments in his literary career, with all its struggles and rewards, as well as his travel adventures to Africa, Europe, and Asia, and his political commitments to fight fascism as well as racism.
Langston Hughes was raised by a grandmother who actively aided the Underground Railroad, and his first forays into poetry reflected personal tales of slavery and heroism. Through his poetry, Hughes lived up to a proud tradition and continued the uplifting legacy of his race. He was a renaissance man in nearly every aspect of his life, and his name has become synonymous with the Harlem Renaissance movement he helped launch. This biography traces Hughes' life and artistic development, from his early years of isolation, which fostered his fierce independence, to his prolific life as a poet, playwright, lyricist, and journalist. Hughes' inspiring story is told through 21 engaging chapters, each providing a fascinating vignette of the artistic, personal, and political associations that shaped his life.
Recounted are the pivotal developments in his literary career, with all its struggles and rewards, as well as his travel adventures to Africa, Europe, and Asia, and his political commitments to fight fascism as well as racism. A timeline, a selected bibliography of biographical and critical sources, and a complete list of Hughes' writings complete the volume.
#142
Flannery O'Connor
A Biography
2005
Despite her early death from lupus at 39, Flannery O'Connor has left a remarkable literary legacy. Written for high school students and undergraduates, this biography is a concise, accessible overview of O'Connor's life and achievements. Included are chapters on her youth and early literary career, the decline of her health and her return to her hometown, her maturation as an author, her identity as a Southern writer, and her final years. The volume also provides a timeline and closes with a bibliography of books, articles, and electronic sources for student research.
Despite her early death from lupus at 39, Flannery O'Connor has left a remarkable literary legacy. She emerged as one of America's most controversial, misunderstood, and promising young writers. Though she published only two novels, a collection of short stories, and various other prose works, she forcefully conveyed her Catholicism to a wide audience. She frequently created grotesque Southern characters, depicted violent situations, and wrote with acerbic wit. This biography discusses her fascinating life and literary career.
Written especially for high school students and undergraduates, this volume is a concise and accessible guide to O'Connor's achievements. Included are chapters on her youth and early works, the decline of her health and her return to her hometown, her maturation as an author, her identity as a Southern writer, and her final years. The volume also presents a timeline and bibliography of books, articles, and electronic sources for student research.
Authors
Arlene R. Quaratiello
Author · 1 books
Arlene Quaratiello was the Coordinator of Library Instruction at Emerson College before she began her career as a college English instructor. For many years she taught writing courses at St. Anselm College in Manchester, NH and several other schools in the Boston area. She has written numerous essays for biographical encyclopedias as well as Rachel Carson: A Biography, a volume in the Greenwood Press Biography series. In 2022, she was elected to the New Hampshire House of Representatives.
Wayne Stewart
Author · 6 books
WAYNE STEWART has been a professional sports writer for more than 30 years, and has published hundreds of articles in such publications as USA Today/Baseball Weekly, Baseball Digest, Boy's Life, and Beckett Baseball Card Monthly.
Gerald Horne
Author · 24 books
Dr. Gerald Horne is an eminent historian who is Chair of History and African American Studies at the University of Houston. An author of more than thirty books and one hundred scholarly articles and reviews, his research has addressed issues of racism in a variety of relations involving labor, politics, civil rights, international relations, war and the film industry.
Roger Bruns
Author · 6 books
Roger Bruns (b. 1941) is an author and the former deputy director for the National Archives and Records Administration of the United States.
Martin Gitlin
Author · 13 books
MARTIN (MARTY) GITLIN is a freelance book writer and journalist based in Cleveland, Ohio. In addition to Diana, Princess of Wales (Greenwood 2008), he has written several history books for students, including works on the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case, Battle of The Little Bighorn, and Stock Market Crash of 1929. He has also written biographies of NASCAR drivers Jimmie Johnson and Jeff Gordon. Gitlin worked for two decades as a sportswriter, during which time he won more than 45 awards, including first place for general excellence from Associated Press. That organization also selected him as one of the top four feature writers in Ohio.
Alma H. Bond
Author · 5 books
Alma H. Bond, PhD, is a psychoanalyst and the author of 20 published books. She received her Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology from Columbia University, graduated from the post-doctoral program in psychoanalysis at the Freudian Society, and was a psychoanalyst in private practice for thirty-seven years in New York City. She ”retired” to become a full-time writer, but now maintains a small practice in addition to writing. Alma Bond launched her popular "On the Couch" series with Jackie O: On the Couch: Inside the Mind and Life of Jackie Kennedy Onassis. Her new book, MARILYN MONROE: ON THE COUCH, will be published October 30, 2013. Her nineteen other published books include: Camille Claude: A Novel; Old Age is a Terminal Illness; Who Killed Virginia Woolf: A Psychobiography; Tales of Psychology: Short Stories to Make You Wise; I Married Dr. Jekyll and Woke Up Mrs. Hyde; Is There Life After Analysis; On Becoming a Grandparent; America’s First Woman Warrior: The Story of Deborah Sampson (with Lucy Freeman); and a children’s book, The Tree That Could Fly.
Edward J. Rielly
Author · 5 books
Edward J. Rielly is a professor of English at Saint Joseph’s College in Standish, Maine. He is the author of several books.
Paula Johanson
Author · 4 books
Paula Johanson is a writer and editor of both fiction and non-fiction books. A long-time member of SF Canada, she has been nominated twice for the national Prix Aurora Award for Canadian Science Fiction.
Thomas M. Leonard
Author · 2 books
Thomas M. Leonard is a professor of history emeritus at the University of North Florida.
