2. Definition
• Life stories that center on facts and events that can be
documented
• Authentic biography is a well-documented and carefully
researched account of a person’s life
• Fictionalized biography is also well-researched but the
author dramatizes specific events and personalizes the
subject
(Kiefer & Tyson, 2014, pp. 287-288)
4. On Challenging Perspectives
Points to Remember:
1. Discuss both positive and negative life stories.
2. Emphasize that mankind is capable of growing and
changing.
3. Foster democratic ideals.
5. Evaluation Criteria
• Choice of Subject
Does the subject’s life offer interest and meaning for
today’s child?
• Accuracy and Authenticity
Does the author provide notes about original source
material, a bibliography, or other evidence of
documentation?
6. Evaluation Criteria (cont.)
• Style
Is the author’s style clear and readable, with background
material included naturally?
• Characterization
Is the subject presented as believable, multidimensional
character, with both strengths and weaknesses?
• Theme
Does the author avoid oversimplifying or manipulating the
facts to fit the chosen theme?
7. A Few Quality Titles
Title Author Description
Drawing From
Memory
Say, Allen This is an autobiographic account of
the life of Allen Say that describes his
life as an artist, his mentor, and his
struggles.
Timeless Edison Barretta, Gene This is a picturebook biography about
the life and inventions of Thomas
Edision.
Barack Obama:
Son of Promise,
Child of Hope
Grimes, Nikki This is a picturebook biography written
in verse that narrates his experiences
earlier in life in Hawaii and as he went
to Harvard and eventually became a
senator and president.
8. Reference
Kiefer, B. Z. & Tyson, C. A. (2014). Charlotte Huck’s
children’s literature: A brief guide (2nd ed.). New York,
NY: McGraw-Hill.
