From School Library Journal
Grade 4-7-The publisher's stated aim with these titles is to present role models to children, and because of that, they lean toward fawning reverence for these stars and their accomplishments, and are largely uncritical. This is a concern with Garth Brooks in particular, considering the recent criticism that he has abandoned his art for the goal of selling more albums than the Beatles. Shania Twain briefly addresses the controversy over the star's Native American heritage, but states that her claim is technically correct as she was raised by her stepfather, a full-blooded Ojibwa, and was adopted into his tribe. A significant problem with both books is the lack of citations for the quotations attributed to the stars and to others who know them. Black-and-white publicity photos add little to the presentations. Serviceable additions for high interest/low reading level collections.
Tim Wadham, Maricopa County Library District, Phoenix, AZ Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
About the Author
Phelan Powell is a freelance writer who has written several books for young readers. A former newspaper reporter, she lives just outside Philadelphia with her husband and two sons.
