"An eclectic mix of four living celebrities is represented in these biographies. In Volodymyr Zelensky, readers learn about Zelensky's time as an entertainer who then became president of the troubled eastern European country Ukraine, and includes facts about the current war with Russia. Dolly Parton chronicles the singer's life from her childhood poverty through her outstanding career including her hit records and movie ventures. Deb Haaland introduces readers to the newest Secretary of the Interior and relates her Native American background and political career. Simone Biles explores Biles's gymnastics career including her Olympic competitions and mental health issues. All of these titles portray their subjects in a positive light as the focus is on their achievements and motivation. The books on Zelensky and Haaland are timely given the recency of their fame and current events. There are several similar biographies already on Parton and Biles, however these are more current.
None of the narratives provide much information on personal lives; Biles's fiancé and pending nuptials are completely omitted. Given that these people are living and still active in their fields, and the subjects appear in many other juvenile biographies (excepting the one on Haaland), these titles may not be considered necessary. VERDICT Even though the information provided is good, all these subjects except Haaland, are featured in other biographies and these would at best be supplemental purchases. The title on Haaland should be considered as there is little on her and her position makes her a unique figure."--School Library Journal.