Extraordinary People: A Semi-Comprehensive Guide to Some of the World’s Most Fascinating Individuals

The author of Unusual Creatures (2012) profiles 50 individuals who have excelled in athletics (Billie Jean King, Deion Sanders), discovery (George Washington Carver, Marie Curie), activism (Jane Goodall, Malala Yousafzai), and more. “ ‘Extraordinary’ is not necessarily the same as ‘role model,’ ” Hearst notes early on: Mexican bandito Heraclio Bernal (“a generous outlaw... like Robin Hood”) is included, as are building-scaling daredevil Alain Robert and hacker Kevin Mitnick. Irreverent biographies, a diverse range of notable figures, and a fresh design that highlights Scamihorn’s crisp comics-style portraits make this an engaging and informative collection. Ages 8–12. Author’s agent: Jud Laghi, Jud Laghi Agency. (May)