The Penguin Book of Canadian Biography for Young Readers, Vol. 2, 1867-1945

Anne Hutchings, a former elementary-school teacher-librarian with the
Durham Board of Education, is an educational consultant.

This book is not, as its title implies, just for young people. Readers
of any age will find these biographies of 50 famous and not-so-famous
Canadians fascinating. The breadth and scope of the contributions made
by these interesting Canadians is truly amazing.

Author Barbara Hehner has chosen and extensively researched individuals
who left their mark on Canadian society during the years between
Confederation and the end of World War II. They did so in a variety of
fields: the arts, science, politics, medicine, education, and sports, to
name just a few. Those selected run the gamut from the little-known
Hannah Maynard, whose photographic techniques put her years ahead of her
time; to World War I flying ace and hero Billy Bishop; to the Dionne
quintuplets; to world-famous author Lucy Maud Montgomery.

Each capsule biography is concise, clear, and easy to read, yet
comprehensive. The author explains terms that may be unfamiliar to the
reader (e.g., “archipelago,” is “a sea with many islands”;
“royalty cheque” is “ money paid … for each book sold”),
eliminating the need to stop to consult a dictionary. She also provides
numerous cross-references. Each entry is illustrated with a
black-and-white photo or drawing.

Elementary-school teachers and librarians always on the lookout for
reference material to have on hand for the inevitable student assignment
on a famous Canadian will find this volume a godsend. Secondary-school
libraries would also find it a valuable resource. Highly recommended.