Benjamin, Melanie Alice, I Have been

Benjamin, Melanie Alice, I Have been
Delacorte see Random 2010 351p 25.00
978-0-385-34413-5 ms/hs Historical E-BN
This is a portrayal of the world of the real Alice In Wonderland that expertly blends fact with fiction. The author had written a many faceted novel that presents a compelling mystery that surrounds the girl behind the story of Alice in Wonderland.
At the same time the novel provides the readers with a insight into the Victorian mores that were prevalent at the time.
The story is told from the perspective of Alice and her thoughts. The blend of the literary Alice in contrast to the actual Alice and her striving to understand her place in the world. All of Alice’s emotions, loves, and failures are woven into a emotionally paced story that will be enjoyed by the readers.

The historical novel offers both realistic and suspenseful action in a well-paced plot and with engaging characters. The story is engaging and full of interesting details, the locations are believably described, and the characters are very three-dimensional. This is a well written book that is recommended as a Books of Note. It would be an excellent addition to any secondary school library. McNeil, Linda
Alice In Wonderland

American Patriot: Benjamin Franklin.

Burgan, Michael. American Patriot: Benjamin Franklin.
Compass Point Books/Capstone 2010 48p 19.99 978-0-7565-4119-4 elem
We the People (Capstone)
This is a simple biography of Benjamin Franklin that tells about his life and shows him as a printer, inventor, statesman, scientist, diplomat and patriot. After introducing Franklin in a brief introductory chapter, the following chapters chronologically show different aspects of the multifaceted Franklin. There is a chapter explaining his childhood and early training as a printer, one about his scientific experiments and inventions, another about his role as a public servant representing Pennsylvania in Britain and later representing the young Nation in France. It also includes his role in the formation of the government of the United States. He is the only one to have signed four important documents - the Declaration of Independence, Treaty of Alliance with France, Treaty of Paris and the Constitution. The text is kept relatively simple, illustrated with many drawings and copies of paintings. Some of the illustrations are somewhat cartoonish. There is a glossary, timeline, sources for more information which include museums in Philadelphia, brief summaries of people connected to Franklin, some extra facts about Franklin and an adequate index. Through Capstone’s web connection called Fact Hound, students can connect to grade level appropriate selected web sites . Theal, Joan