I feel it is never too young to introduce young readers to Biography. No, one does not want to burden them with all of the details of a person’s life. But rather select one special event or characteristic upon which to build a story introducing the person.
I like to classify these picturebooks or storybooks as “Near-Biography”. A recent publication, LOUISA THE LIFE OF LOUISA MAY ALCOTT by Yena Zeldis McDonough, illustrated by Bethanne Andersen (Henry Holt, 2009, $17.00) brings the childhood and early writing career of this remarkable writer to a young audience today.
We follow the childhood of Louisa and her family through many difficult times. Louisa seemed always to be a major force within the family circle. She was diligent in her efforts to assist the family, as well as many others, to cope with the difficulties of daily life. At one point Louisa travelled to work with injured Civil War soldiers. But no matter where she went her primary concern was for the welfare of her family. She labored at many jobs until publication of LITTLE WOMEN provided her with any kind of permanent support and security.