A well-written yet critical examination of Andrew Jackson and his place in American history, this biography will get kids thinking about the fact that there are two sides to every story. While many historians generally regard Jackson fairly favorably, Meltzer depicts him as a ruthlessly power-hungry politician who was willing to do anything to get ahead. Jackson's multiple dualities are apparent through this book, although none of the facets portray him in a very sympathetic light. While he is appropriately critical of Jackson's protection of slavery and Indian Removal policy, Meltzer does not give much credence to Jackson's role in protecting the Union.

The writing is very clear and intriguing, and will keep readers turning the pages. The black and white illustrations and maps are engaging, although sometimes hard to read, and in today's full color interactive multimedia world, may lose students' interest. Because of the unevenness of its coverage, I would recommend teachers and librarians scaffold this text heavily, and provide other sources. Whether you agree with Meltzer or not, doing so would provide students with an important lesson in critical thinking and examining historical perspectives.

One last great quality of this book is how well Meltzer illuminates the historical period that Jackson was a product of. He is effective in portraying the dynamism and social change that America was experiencing at the same time Jackson climbed to power. Certain passages and/or excerpts of this book would be awesome teaching tools in illuminating the culture of Jacksonian America.

For grades 7 and up. ( )