John Brown (Pb) (Gateway Civil Rights)

John Brown was one of the most daring men in the history of civil rights. He hated slavery. His attempts to free the slaves cost a number of lives and helped, indirectly, to bring on the Civil War.

Grade 3-6-- Although this biography of the famous abolitionist is clearly presented, it lacks a much needed glossary. The simple vocabulary, brief text, interesting subject matter, and profuse illustrations make it suitable for reluctant readers. Unfortunately, some textual disunity is caused by the prominent inclusion of other relevant persons (Harriet Tubman, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Henry Ward Beecher) and events. They are not inappropriate, but the way in which they are presented is somewhat jarring. Lorenz Graham's John Brown: A Cry for Freedom (Crowell, 1980) is more detailed and informative in its presentation. While reporting rumors of Brown's madness, both writers show sympathy. The book is illustrated with full-color and black-and-white archival photographs. --Helen E. Williams, formerly at University of Maryland, College Park
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