Who Was Johnny Appleseed? by Joan Holub

Published: New York: Grosset and Dunlap, 2005

101 pages

Target Audience: 3-5 grades

Reading level: 4.5

Genre: Biography

Synopsis: Traveling in the Northwest Territory, John Chapman, a.k.a Johnny Appleseed, planted orchards, encountered wild animals, and befriended settlers and Native Americans alike. This easy-to-read biography of the American folk hero and pioneer will fascinate children with stories of his adventures, interesting facts and many illustrations.

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This is the perfect biography for children who are fascinated by the eccentric and legendary Johnny Appleseed, a man who is best known for bringing apple trees to the midwest. This easy read includes a timeline of important events.

Pele by James Buckley Jr.

Published: New York: DK Publishing, 2007

128 pages

Target Audience: 9-12 years old

Reading level: 4.5

Genre: Biography

Themes: Soccer, World Cup

Synopsis: Pele, known to his family as Edson Arantes do Nascimento, grew up playing soccer on the streets of Bauru, Brazil, using a sock filled with newspaper for the ball. Luckily, the practice paid off, and by the time he was 16, he was already the top scorer in the nation. Find out how Pele became the only player ever to win three World Cup trophies-and how he earned his reputation as the greatest soccer player of all time.

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This illustrated biography follows Pele from his youth to his retirement. Photographs appear on every page, pulling readers into the inviting design, while fact boxes introduce other international soccer figures and define specific terms, such as bicycle kick. An illustrated time line is included for young researchers or soccer fans seeking a deeper understanding of their beloved sport.