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Jennifer Hudson

by Gail Snyder
64p. 978-1-42221-509-8.
COPY ISBN
Gr 5-8 These books lack the excitement and passion that characterize "American Idol" and its performers. "Insights" traces the show's stratospheric climb without providing any real insights to fans. Anyone not familiar with it will have a hard time following the cattle call of names and song titles or gleaning any idea why the show has become so popular in the first place. The flat narratives in "Underwood" and "Sparks" don't reveal the personalities that made the contestants household names or offer much history prior to the individuals' appearances on "American Idol". Full-color photos with extensive, busy captions make following the texts difficult while the backstory that was already covered in "Insights" suffocates the strangled narratives. The most interesting biographies are those of the non "Idol"-winners Jennifer Hudson and Kellie Pickler. Their stories are better for having not won "American Idol" as readers will root for their success and learn that Pickler found her niche at the Grand Ole Opry and Hudson became an Oscar-winning actress."H. H. Henderson, Heritage Middle School, Deltona, FL" Copyright 2010 Media Source Inc.
Each book begins with the same "American Idol Timeline." The texts then provide brief biographies and detailed accounts of the title contestants' rise to fame. Die-hard Idol fans may be interested; it's hard to imagine that other readers will find these garishly designed books relevant. There are seven other fall 2009 books in this series. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind. Review covers these Dream Big: American Idol Superstars titles: Adam Lambert, David Archuleta, Carrie Underwood, Jordin Sparks, David Cook, and Jennifer Hudson.

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