Hans Christian Andersen: The Dreamer of Fairy Tales (What's Their Story?)

Andrew Langley is a highly successful and widely experienced author of children's reference.

Grade 3-4-These simple, entertaining biographies detail the entire span of these men's lives, emphasizing the factors that inspired them to become writers. Each book recounts interesting anecdotes from the writer's childhood; readers learn that Andersen created plays and a toy theater for his dolls and that Dahl almost lost his nose when his sister crashed the family's brand new car. Langley and Shavick emphasize how both Andersen and Dahl overcame difficulties and tragedy in order to become great writers. At times, Langley's language is a bit cliched: "Girls and boys loved Hans's tales. They thought they were the most wonderful stories they had ever read" and "It was like a fairy tale come true." While the vivid watercolor illustrations are attractive and entertaining, they may leave readers longing for biographies that include photographs, such as Chris Powling's Roald Dahl (Carolrhoda, 1998). Despite these shortcomings, the books will appeal to children. "Important dates" pages will assist young researchers. Worthwhile purchases for most collections.
Esther C. Ball, Carver Elementary School, Newport News, VA
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