From School Library Journal
Grade 5-8–This biographical survey opens rather weakly with an account of a latent Revolutionary War mutiny that Washington apparently squashed by putting on a pair of spectacles and thereby emotionally overwhelming his men. The unlikelihood of this episode grabbing young people is something to consider, as is the content that follows. The first several chapters dryly chronicle Washington's years growing up and rising through the colonial military ranks. Next, readers learn of his experience in the Virginia House of Burgesses, family life, slave ownership, and return to the military where his pivotal role in the American Revolution is, of course, featured. Ten pages are devoted to his presidency. Sidebars, period black-and-white reproductions, and primary-source references appear throughout. This title is serviceable, certainly, but there is very little to distinguish it from other average series titles on America's first president. Brendan January's George Washington (Scholastic, 2003) presents the same basic information in a more attractive and accessible format (with more useful appendixes) and Albert Marrin's George Washington and the Founding of a Nation (Dutton, 2001) is a richer choice for students able to handle a more sophisticated text.–Andrew Medlar, Chicago Public Library, IL

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Today, we often think of George Washington as being stiff and formal. Early in life, he had decided that being formal was often the best way to get things done. But he was also a man of great energy and enthusiasm. Washington was the teenager who braved the wilderness. He was the young officer who amazed other soliders with his athletic ability and courage. As a military leader, Washington would lead the charge into battle. And as the president of the Constitutional Convention, Washington often advised delegates with nothing more than a smile or a scowl. In George Washington: Creating a Nation, authors Wim Coleman and Pat Perrin examine the life of George Washington, who struggled throughout his life to be what he thought a good man should be. Fortunately, that included commitment, a spirit of adventure, boundless strength and energy, a self-critical nature, and willingness to compromise with others.

FROM THE CRITICS

School Library Journal