Boston Globe–Horn Book Awards: Nonfiction Winners

(2) 4-6 In 1956 Clinton, Tennessee, twelve African American students integrated the all-white high school. Boyce, one of the "Clinton 12," relates (with coauthor Levy) her first-person account in free-verse passages that often include rhyme and employ various poetic forms. Newspaper headlines and clips, excerpts from the Constitution, and more appear throughout this fine addition to books about the integration of public schools during the civil rights era. Reading list, timeline. Bib.

Reviewer: Jonda C. McNair | Horn Book Magazine Issue: January, 2019

(1) YA Illustrated by Zeke Peña. Photographer Iturbide's story is told in comic-panel format, with striking black-and-white illustrations, high-quality reproductions of her own photographs, and spare first-person narration drawing upon her writing and interviews; interspersed are section introductions in a more conversational third-person, direct-address text. A powerful homage to the five-decade evolution of an artist still working--and still evolving--today. Additional biographical information is appended. Reading list.

Reviewer: Katie Bircher | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2018

(1) YA Heiligman unpacks the friendship between artist Vincent van Gogh and his brother Theo. Her present-tense, purposely staccato narration effectively heightens the brothers' emotional intensity, their sufferings and pleasures, and Vincent's wild and original art. The layout incorporates sketches, subheads, and generous white space, a calming counterpoint to the turbulent narrative. A unique and riveting exploration of art, artists, and brotherly love. Timeline. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Monica Edinger | Horn Book Magazine Issue: March, 2017

(1) YA With the timing and prowess of a writer of thrillers, Sheinkin takes on a spectacularly complex story--Daniel Ellsberg's evolution from "cold warrior" to antiwar activist, and why and how he leaked the Pentagon Papers--and makes it comprehensible for teens. Sheinkin has an unparalleled gift for synthesizing story and bringing American history to life. Judiciously placed archival photographs appear throughout. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Martha V. Parravano | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2015

(1) YA Fleming has outdone herself with this riveting work of narrative nonfiction. Her focus here is not just the Romanovs, but the Revolutionary leaders and common people as well. The epic, sweeping narrative seamlessly incorporates scholarly authority, primary sources, appropriate historical speculation, and a keen eye for the most telling details. Two sixteen-page inserts contain numerous captioned photographs. Map, genealogy, and source notes included. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Jonathan Hunt | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2014

(2) YA The Port Chicago 50 was a group of black navy recruits assigned the dangerous job of loading bombs onto battleships. When an (inevitable) explosion left hundreds dead, fifty men refused to go back to work, occasioning a trial for mutiny. An unusual entry point for the study of WWII and the nascent civil rights movement. Photographs are helpful, and documentation is thorough. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Roger Sutton | Horn Book Magazine Issue: March, 2014

(1) 4-6 Byrd divides Franklin's life into seventeen whimsically labeled double-page spreads covering topics ranging from his fascination with electricity to his ideas for social progress to his diplomatic roles. Informative, exploratory, nonpandering text is set on attractive pages; spot art and larger illustrations provide information and present a visual record. This book shimmers with excitement, begging to be read. Reading list, timeline. Bib.

Reviewer: Betty Carter | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2012

(2) 4-6 In this Q&A–style narrative, Close answers questions supposedly asked by children. His voice is clear and direct with not a hint of famous-artist self-aggrandizement or angst. A central section shows fourteen of his self-portraits in a variety of media on heavy card stock cut into thirds so readers can mix and match. A welcome primary source about being an artist. Timeline. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Lolly Robinson | Horn Book Magazine Issue: May, 2012

(1) YA Benedict Arnold, ambition-driven, believed the Revolution was his path to honor, respect, and wealth; his decision to turn traitor is both chilling and compellingly portrayed. Interspersed throughout this biography is the story of Major John André, the British officer who colluded with Arnold. Numerous quotes (many from original sources and all documented) add to the lively narrative. Maps are included. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Betty Carter | Horn Book Magazine Issue: January, 2011