Harry Houdini: Escape Artist (Stories of Famous Americans)

From School Library Journal Kindergarten-Grade 2-This easy-reader gives an overview of the life of Ehrich Weiss, known to the world as Harry Houdini. The early years of poverty, his hard work to help support his family, and his interest in magic at a young age are simply presented. Readers will learn that magicians need quick, strong hands as well as self-confidence. However, there is an abrupt jump from the time he was 17 and changed his name to the statement on the next page that "After years of struggling, Houdini was finally famous." Children are sure to wonder why and how he suddenly became so successful. The time line states that Houdini became the greatest magician the world has ever known and lists several of his most amazing tricks but none of those details are included in the body of the book. The illustrations of Houdini's life are large and colorful, and will hold readers' interest, but the text itself seems incomplete.