crystal_reading's review
This is a beautiful and well told picture book bio of Lena Horne.
nerfherder86's review
4.0
Beautiful art, a mix of collage and painting, illustrates this picture book about Lena Horne. Nice text, lyrical, free verse. Has a bibliography but no timeline, and three quotes from Horne that are not attributed. Timeline would have helped because I only figured out the year Horne died from an article title listed in the bibliography, while other significant years in the singer's life are mentioned in the story. I also think it could have used a glossary or more contextual clues, because there are lots of historical terms and slang used (Lena's dad was a "street hustler, he lived high on the hog") that will challenge young readers. Clearly and simply explains racial inequalities she suffered, and how she sidelined her career to work for civil rights. Great positive message and a good role model.
agudenburr's review
4.0
An amazing story of Lena Horne and her struggles to become an African American actress.
michelle_neuwirth_gray9311's review
5.0
I thought this bio was really well done and I also enjoyed the illustrations very much!
wordnerd153's review
3.0
Wonderful illustrations and tons of interesting information about an inspirational woman. Definitely for older readers, since a lot of key words are not defined. Some knowledge of segregation and civil rights would be helpful for a deeper understanding of Lena's story.
csd17's review
Nicely done. Although I think she made a small mistake and that Horne sang on The Muppet Show, not Sesame Street. But I could be wrong.