Nelson Mandela

The Great Lives series has established itself as a line of reliable, informative, clearly written and reasonably-priced biographies. Stefoff's entry is a swiftly-paced narrative that expertly combines the modern political and social history of South Africa and apartheid with the life of the 20th century's most celebrated political prisoner. Mandela's childhood and education, the origins of his personal philosophy and his growing activism when faced with the brutal realities of South African life are all explored. After reading this involving biography, middle school and junior high readers can more easily begin to comprehend the complex challenges facing both South Africa and the world, and can see apartheid's evils through the eyes of Mandela--a flesh-and-blood hero who comes to life on these pages. Ages 11-up. (Sept.)