Gr 8 Up–This fascinating series for confident older readers is a boon for report writers with its fact-filled, even-handed analyses of these history-making women’s lives and accomplishments.Subjects are treated respectfully and fairly; where applicable, failings and scandalous behaviors are noted discreetly.Cleopatra’s complex romantic life and out-of-wedlock childbearing, Curie’s love affair in widowhood, and the Clintons’ marital woes are discussed, but the respective portrayals offer much more—no small feat in Cleopatra’s case, given the dearth of contemporary sources about her. Fortunately, her book draws on modern scholarship while acknowledging ancient writings, casting a more favorable light on the queen’s character, achievements, and legacy. Each title features pale-green sidebars that add information and historical context, in addition to quotes about/from the subjects and contemporaries.Numerous excellent graphics enhance attractiveness.Detailed time lines are included, but not glossaries, which would have helped with the sophisticated vocabularies.VERDICT Highly recommended for middle school collections.Clinton is very timely; overall, Curie works for the non-scientifically inclined.
