There are many legends about the United States presidents. The author successfully separates the facts from the myths. Readers learn that Lincoln did not write the Gettysburg Address on an envelope while traveling to the battlefield, there is no evidence George Washington chopped down a cherry tree, and Kennedy did not call himself a jelly donut at the Berlin Wall. Theodore Roosevelt did watch Lincoln’s funeral procession from a window, Jefferson doubled the size of the country with the Louisiana Purchase, and Grant was arrested for speeding while president. Some photos and paintings are included but the volumes are mostly comprised of text on colorful pages. Information is factual and many will find it interesting; more importantly it will negate the perceptions provided by perennial presidential mythology. VERDICT These colorful volumes offer better understanding of presidential mythology and will be of use in school and public libraries.