Krull, Kathleen. 2005. Houdini: world's greatest mystery man and escape king. Ill. by Eric Velasquez. New York: Walker & Company.

recommended for: 3rd through 5th grades

Produced in an appealing format of a theatrical production, this biography begins with first magic production, "The Milkcan Escape," which premiered in 1908 and was a great success for Harry! Then with a flashback to the early years of Harry's life and family, the author carries the reader through the major high points of Harry Houdini's private and professional life. Each major portion of the story is told as though by an emcee at a circus, and the curtain literally opens and closes on the events. A "Behind the Scenes" and bibliography draw the story to a satisfying and interesting conclusion.

Krull's work carries the marks of a well-written and interesting biography for young readers. An authentic biography, the author acknowledges her information sources and provides an accurate re-telling of the Houdini life highlights. There are direct quotations used with care, citing Houdini's wife's comments on her husband. The overall tone of he book is even and balanced, and the reader comes away knowing a great deal about Houdini's exploits but also about him as a person.

I believe the large, visual presentation of the information in the book will provide an attractive start for students (always interested in magic) who want to know more about Houdini. There is a good blend of information and "presentation." This book should be a popular in my library.

Key words: illusion, magic tricks, Houdini, escapes