These splashy titles do a credible job of highlighting important political and personal aspects of the lives of U.S. presidents. All feature the same breathless delivery, in which statements are thrown out as challenges, followed by informational text that proves each assertion myth or fact. Some topics just consider historical occurrences and phrase them as inquiries; others actually address misconceptions or more trivial tidbits. The selection on Thomas Jefferson confirms that he did double the size of the continental U.S. through the Louisiana Purchase but debunks the myth that he was responsible for introducing- ing ice cream, macaroni and cheese, and French fries to American cuisine. Teddy Roosevelt did indeed start the progressive Bull Moose party, but despite “evidence” in doctored photographs, he never actually rode a bull moose out in the wilderness. John F. Kennedy was a decorated military veteran, but he wasn’t our youngest president (he’s the youngest elected, but Teddy Roosevelt is the youngest who ever served). And while President Grant’s actual first name wasn’t Ulysses, it is true that the Grants had been invited to accompany the Lincolns to the theater the night of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination but begged off. The straightforward text appears on bright primary-color pages filled with such visual elements as archival photos, political cartoons, boxed quotes, and sidebars, all set off by neon fonts and bold borders. All four titles share the same author and end with title-specific timelines, glossaries, and lists of resources. This especially accessible format accommodates both browsers and report writers.

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.