Singer, songwriter, Grammy winner. Although it may seem like Taylor Swift became a superstar overnight, she really started singing and writing songs when she was eleven. She kept doing what she thought was right until her big break, and she''s now a household name. This fun-to-read book offers reluctant readers juicy quotes, personal stories, and accessible features such as a timeline and glossary.

In 1936, in front of 110,000 spectators at the Olympic Stadium in Germany, Jesse Owens blew away the competition in the 100-meter final to claim the title of "World''s Fastest Man." He won the gold medal in front of Germany''s brutal dictator, Adolf Hitler, defying the Nazi leader''s racist ideology. Owens won three more gold medals at the Olympics and returned to the United States a hero. Author Jeff Burlingame explores the life of one of the greatest and most influential athletes in American history, from his humble childhood to his legacy on and off the track.

This biography explores this talented singer and actress'' life, and struggles with bipolar disorder. Readers find out about her early acting days on Barney and Friends with Selena Gomez to being "discovered" by Disney to her Stay Strong special on MTV.

Jennifer Lawrence was nominated for her first Academy Award at 20 years old. Her determination and drive have seen her go from modeling to acting in some of the biggest blockbusters in recent years. Readers find out what her future plans are, and how she became such an amazing actress.

One of the first singles from The Black Album, a famous Jay-Z record, rap "What More Can I Say"? But the real question is what more can this music legend do? From the platinum albums to the sold-out concerts to his Rocawear clothing brand, Jay-Z has done it all. He has sold some 50 million albums worldwide. He even has a sneaker named after him. From the Brooklyn projects to the corner office in Manhattan, Jay-Z made his own way, overcoming many obstacles. Author Jeff Burlingame explores the remarkably interesting life of this hip-hop icon.

Hillary Clinton is arguably one of the most polarizing political figures in American history. She burst into the national spotlight during her husband’s presidential campaign, when she managed to both impress and offend the American public. Since then, Clinton has proven herself a capable public servant, with successful terms in the US Senate and as secretary of state. But controversy continually threatens to undermine her accomplishments, and it often seems that her ambitions get the best of her. This biography tells the story of the rise of remarkable woman, from her humble Midwestern beginnings to a historic run for the White House.

Malcolm X faced many injustices growing up as an African American in the early twentieth century. Funneling his anger over systemic racism into activism, Malcolm X became a leader of the civil rights movement as well as one of the best-known spokesmen for the Nation of Islam. In this engaging biography, students will learn about Malcolm X''s trials, tribulations, and victories in the battle for civil rights. Students will be guided through the reading with historical context and primary source documents, as well as a glossary of important words, a timeline, and references for further reading.

This comprehensive biography by award-winning author Jeff Burlingame explores the life of John Lennon, whose music and life story still resonate and remain popular with both young and old fans, nearly four decades after his untimely death in 1980. He was known foremost as a musician, but played many roles during his too-short life. Born and raised in Liverpool, England, Lennon was a founding member of The Beatles, a solo musician, a peace activist, and a stay-at-home father to son Sean in his adopted hometown of New York City. He left a mark on popular culture that is without parallel.

The story of Bad Boy Entertainment is one of triumph and tragedy. It was triumph when the dream of founder Sean "Puffy" Combs was transformed into one of the most successful record labels in the history of hip-hop music. It was tragedy when the life of Bad Boy''s most successful artist, Christopher "Biggie" Wallace, was violently ended at the prime of his career. It was triumph again when Puffy evoked Biggie''s memory in a chart-topping song that helped jump-start a highly successful performing career of his own. Nearly 20 years after its founding, Bad Boy Entertainment has grown from a record label spinning out rap hits to a do-everything company with dealings in the world of fashion, food, and music.

For as long as prisons have existed, people have asked what role they should play in our society. Should they be solely dedicated to punishing those who have broken the law, or do they also have a role to play in the rehabilitation of criminals, so they can contribute more productively when they return to society? This book looks at prison conditions and the American criminal justice system to help readers gain a deeper understanding of how prisoners are treated, while weighing what some argue are necessary changes to today''s prisons. Sidebars, a glossary, and full-color photographs aid students in more fully comprehending the many sides of this ongoing debate.

This book examines controversies surrounding government entitlements, explaining what they are, discussing social security, welfare, unemployment insurance, workers'' compensation, and related topics, and encourages students to utilize critical thinking skills.

This gripping volume allows readers to use critical thinking to create informed opinions on where they stand on the issue of punishment, incarceration, and the treatment of prisoners.

Provides information on the Titanic tragedy and the differing perspectives accompanying it.

This book provides information on the dangers of alcohol, which is a depressant that can take a serious toll on one''s health. Use of alcohol interferes with the brain''s communication pathways and affects the way the brain works and processes information. Your readers will learn about the long-term and short-term effects of alcohol, which includes physical addiction, emotional addiction, expense, and health problems. Readers will hear from personal stories of teens that used alcohol. They''ll learn the realities these teens faced and gain advice on how to deal with peer pressure when choosing to decline alcohol. This well-rounded and accessible book devotes an entire chapter to getting help.

Crystal meth or methamphetamine is an illegal and powerful street drug. Also known as meth, crank, chalk, and speed, crystal meth first acts as a stimulant, then begins to systematically destroy the body. It causes severe health conditions and is highly addictive. Your readers will learn about the long-term and short-term effects of crystal meth, which include physical addiction, emotional addiction, expense, health problems, arrest for possession, and overdose. Personal stories of teens that used meth seamlessly reveal the true disease that develops out of the use and power of meth. Advice on how to deal with peer pressure when declining drug offers is provided. There are so many reasons to avoid crystal methamphetamine, and this timely book exposes those reasons.

The life that 50 Cent was born into was anything but easy. From growing up without a father, to drug dealing, to being shot nine times and nearly losing his life, 50 Cent had to overcome a lot of struggles in his life, but this hip-hop biography will not only cover those struggles, but also his rise to becoming one of the biggest and wealthiest names in the hip-hop world.

With a childhood that was made up of no father, being beat up by schoolmates, and dropping out of high school, no one expected much from Eminem, but in that same childhood, Eminem would find an escape from it all through hip-hop music. Not only does this hip-hop biography stress his struggles coming up, but it highlights how Eminem has become one of the most successful hip-hop stars of all-time.

Even at a young age, Kanye West''s love for music gave him opportunities to make money. Even though Kanye had the chance to attend college and have his career go in a different direction, he instead chose to focus on writing beats and raps which ultimately made him a star. This hip-hop biography covers everything from Kanye''s childhood mischief to his first big contract to the most controversial moment of his illustrious career.

This sports biography tells the story of Andres Iniesta from his childhood to his position as an elite soccer star for F.C. Barcelona and the Spanish national team. Iniesta has helped both teams win multiple championships, including the 2010 World Cup. In 2012, he was named the Best Player in Europe by the UEFA.

In this biography, readers can follow Real Madrid superstar Kaka through all of thrilling and shocking moments of his life, including an injury that almost left him paralyzed. Kaka''s journey includes being honored as the 2007 FIFA World Player of the Year. that makes readers interested in learning more about the star.

With this "How-to" guide, readers will learn all the basic knowledge of freshwater fishing and what essentials are needed to making a first time fishing experience a success. From supplies and safety to picking a spot and actually fishing, readers will learn what''s needed to become a skilled freshwater fisherman.

With this "How-to" guide, readers will learn all the basic knowledge of camping and the important components that will make a first time camping trip a success. Between picking a location and setting up camp to the necessary gear and supplies, readers will learn everything needed to become a skilled camper.

Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Tom Hamilton, Brad Whitford, and Joey Kramer, in the early 1970s, these five young men from diverse backgrounds came together to form Aerosmith, a blues-tinted hard rock band that eventually would become known as one of the greatest rock-and-roll bands in history. However, the band''s path to iconic status, with millions of records sold and a spot in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, was anything but easy. Featuring an engaging narrative, informative sidebars, and direct quotations, this book explores the hits and misses of this rock band that, despite it all, keeps on rocking.

Charming small towns, verdant rainforests, rocky coastline, and mountain meadows: experience the surreal beauty and endless adventure of the Pacific Northwest in Moon Olympic Peninsula by local author Jeff Burlingame. Inside you'll find:- Flexible itineraries, from a weekend in Olympic National Park to a weeklong tour of the peninsula- Outdoor adventures: Wander through the ethereal Hoh Rain Forest, marvel at the panoramic views from Hurricane Ridge, or hike through the old-growth forests of Olympic National Park. Take a waterfall-filled backpacking trek through the Sawtooth Mountains, camp on the banks of the Skokomish River, and soak in the restorative waters of the Olympic Hot Springs. Spot hundreds of species of birds on the largest natural sand spit in the world or study starfish and sea stacks on the rugged northern coast- The best hikes of the Olympic Peninsula: Find your adventure with hike descriptions, directions, difficulty ratings, and elevation gains- Must-see highlights and unique experiences: Tour the oldest lighthouse on the Puget Sound, explore Kurt Cobain's hometown, or immerse yourself in the region's rich maritime history. Dig for a dinner of fresh razor clams and savor fresh-caught Dungeness crab. Stroll through a fragrant lavender farm, shop for unique handcrafted goods, or peruse small-town galleries for local art. Sample one-of-a-kind red blends and fruit wines or kick back with a local brew and some live music- Local insight from Washington-born journalist Jeff Burlingame on when to go, where to stay, and what to bring- Full-color photos and detailed maps throughout- Helpful background on the landscape, wildlife, climate, and local culture, plus tips for getting around the peninsulaWith Moon's practical tips and expert advice, you can experience the best of the Olympic Peninsula.Want more of the great outdoors? Try Moon Pacific Northwest Hiking.About Moon Travel Guides: Moon was founded in 1973 to empower independent, active, and conscious travel. We prioritize local businesses, outdoor recreation, and traveling strategically and sustainably. Moon Travel Guides are written by local, expert authors with great stories to tell-and they can't wait to share their favorite places with you.For more inspiration, follow @moonguides on social media.

Singer, songwriter, Grammy winner. Although it may seem like Taylor Swift became a superstar overnight, she really started singing and writing songs when she was eleven. She kept doing what she thought was right until her big break, and she''s now a household name. This fun-to-read book offers reluctant readers juicy quotes, personal stories, and accessible features such as a timeline and glossary.

In 1936, in front of 110,000 spectators at the Olympic Stadium in Germany, Jesse Owens blew away the competition in the 100-meter final to claim the title of "World''s Fastest Man." He won the gold medal in front of Germany''s brutal dictator, Adolf Hitler, defying the Nazi leader''s racist ideology. Owens won three more gold medals at the Olympics and returned to the United States a hero. Author Jeff Burlingame explores the life of one of the greatest and most influential athletes in American history, from his humble childhood to his legacy on and off the track.

This biography explores this talented singer and actress'' life, and struggles with bipolar disorder. Readers find out about her early acting days on Barney and Friends with Selena Gomez to being "discovered" by Disney to her Stay Strong special on MTV.

Jennifer Lawrence was nominated for her first Academy Award at 20 years old. Her determination and drive have seen her go from modeling to acting in some of the biggest blockbusters in recent years. Readers find out what her future plans are, and how she became such an amazing actress.

One of the first singles from The Black Album, a famous Jay-Z record, rap "What More Can I Say"? But the real question is what more can this music legend do? From the platinum albums to the sold-out concerts to his Rocawear clothing brand, Jay-Z has done it all. He has sold some 50 million albums worldwide. He even has a sneaker named after him. From the Brooklyn projects to the corner office in Manhattan, Jay-Z made his own way, overcoming many obstacles. Author Jeff Burlingame explores the remarkably interesting life of this hip-hop icon.

Hillary Clinton is arguably one of the most polarizing political figures in American history. She burst into the national spotlight during her husband’s presidential campaign, when she managed to both impress and offend the American public. Since then, Clinton has proven herself a capable public servant, with successful terms in the US Senate and as secretary of state. But controversy continually threatens to undermine her accomplishments, and it often seems that her ambitions get the best of her. This biography tells the story of the rise of remarkable woman, from her humble Midwestern beginnings to a historic run for the White House.

Malcolm X faced many injustices growing up as an African American in the early twentieth century. Funneling his anger over systemic racism into activism, Malcolm X became a leader of the civil rights movement as well as one of the best-known spokesmen for the Nation of Islam. In this engaging biography, students will learn about Malcolm X''s trials, tribulations, and victories in the battle for civil rights. Students will be guided through the reading with historical context and primary source documents, as well as a glossary of important words, a timeline, and references for further reading.

This comprehensive biography by award-winning author Jeff Burlingame explores the life of John Lennon, whose music and life story still resonate and remain popular with both young and old fans, nearly four decades after his untimely death in 1980. He was known foremost as a musician, but played many roles during his too-short life. Born and raised in Liverpool, England, Lennon was a founding member of The Beatles, a solo musician, a peace activist, and a stay-at-home father to son Sean in his adopted hometown of New York City. He left a mark on popular culture that is without parallel.

The story of Bad Boy Entertainment is one of triumph and tragedy. It was triumph when the dream of founder Sean "Puffy" Combs was transformed into one of the most successful record labels in the history of hip-hop music. It was tragedy when the life of Bad Boy''s most successful artist, Christopher "Biggie" Wallace, was violently ended at the prime of his career. It was triumph again when Puffy evoked Biggie''s memory in a chart-topping song that helped jump-start a highly successful performing career of his own. Nearly 20 years after its founding, Bad Boy Entertainment has grown from a record label spinning out rap hits to a do-everything company with dealings in the world of fashion, food, and music.

For as long as prisons have existed, people have asked what role they should play in our society. Should they be solely dedicated to punishing those who have broken the law, or do they also have a role to play in the rehabilitation of criminals, so they can contribute more productively when they return to society? This book looks at prison conditions and the American criminal justice system to help readers gain a deeper understanding of how prisoners are treated, while weighing what some argue are necessary changes to today''s prisons. Sidebars, a glossary, and full-color photographs aid students in more fully comprehending the many sides of this ongoing debate.

This book examines controversies surrounding government entitlements, explaining what they are, discussing social security, welfare, unemployment insurance, workers'' compensation, and related topics, and encourages students to utilize critical thinking skills.

This gripping volume allows readers to use critical thinking to create informed opinions on where they stand on the issue of punishment, incarceration, and the treatment of prisoners.

Provides information on the Titanic tragedy and the differing perspectives accompanying it.

This book provides information on the dangers of alcohol, which is a depressant that can take a serious toll on one''s health. Use of alcohol interferes with the brain''s communication pathways and affects the way the brain works and processes information. Your readers will learn about the long-term and short-term effects of alcohol, which includes physical addiction, emotional addiction, expense, and health problems. Readers will hear from personal stories of teens that used alcohol. They''ll learn the realities these teens faced and gain advice on how to deal with peer pressure when choosing to decline alcohol. This well-rounded and accessible book devotes an entire chapter to getting help.

Crystal meth or methamphetamine is an illegal and powerful street drug. Also known as meth, crank, chalk, and speed, crystal meth first acts as a stimulant, then begins to systematically destroy the body. It causes severe health conditions and is highly addictive. Your readers will learn about the long-term and short-term effects of crystal meth, which include physical addiction, emotional addiction, expense, health problems, arrest for possession, and overdose. Personal stories of teens that used meth seamlessly reveal the true disease that develops out of the use and power of meth. Advice on how to deal with peer pressure when declining drug offers is provided. There are so many reasons to avoid crystal methamphetamine, and this timely book exposes those reasons.

The life that 50 Cent was born into was anything but easy. From growing up without a father, to drug dealing, to being shot nine times and nearly losing his life, 50 Cent had to overcome a lot of struggles in his life, but this hip-hop biography will not only cover those struggles, but also his rise to becoming one of the biggest and wealthiest names in the hip-hop world.

With a childhood that was made up of no father, being beat up by schoolmates, and dropping out of high school, no one expected much from Eminem, but in that same childhood, Eminem would find an escape from it all through hip-hop music. Not only does this hip-hop biography stress his struggles coming up, but it highlights how Eminem has become one of the most successful hip-hop stars of all-time.

Even at a young age, Kanye West''s love for music gave him opportunities to make money. Even though Kanye had the chance to attend college and have his career go in a different direction, he instead chose to focus on writing beats and raps which ultimately made him a star. This hip-hop biography covers everything from Kanye''s childhood mischief to his first big contract to the most controversial moment of his illustrious career.

This sports biography tells the story of Andres Iniesta from his childhood to his position as an elite soccer star for F.C. Barcelona and the Spanish national team. Iniesta has helped both teams win multiple championships, including the 2010 World Cup. In 2012, he was named the Best Player in Europe by the UEFA.

In this biography, readers can follow Real Madrid superstar Kaka through all of thrilling and shocking moments of his life, including an injury that almost left him paralyzed. Kaka''s journey includes being honored as the 2007 FIFA World Player of the Year. that makes readers interested in learning more about the star.

With this "How-to" guide, readers will learn all the basic knowledge of freshwater fishing and what essentials are needed to making a first time fishing experience a success. From supplies and safety to picking a spot and actually fishing, readers will learn what''s needed to become a skilled freshwater fisherman.

With this "How-to" guide, readers will learn all the basic knowledge of camping and the important components that will make a first time camping trip a success. Between picking a location and setting up camp to the necessary gear and supplies, readers will learn everything needed to become a skilled camper.

Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Tom Hamilton, Brad Whitford, and Joey Kramer, in the early 1970s, these five young men from diverse backgrounds came together to form Aerosmith, a blues-tinted hard rock band that eventually would become known as one of the greatest rock-and-roll bands in history. However, the band''s path to iconic status, with millions of records sold and a spot in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, was anything but easy. Featuring an engaging narrative, informative sidebars, and direct quotations, this book explores the hits and misses of this rock band that, despite it all, keeps on rocking.

Charming small towns, verdant rainforests, rocky coastline, and mountain meadows: experience the surreal beauty and endless adventure of the Pacific Northwest in Moon Olympic Peninsula by local author Jeff Burlingame. Inside you'll find:- Flexible itineraries, from a weekend in Olympic National Park to a weeklong tour of the peninsula- Outdoor adventures: Wander through the ethereal Hoh Rain Forest, marvel at the panoramic views from Hurricane Ridge, or hike through the old-growth forests of Olympic National Park. Take a waterfall-filled backpacking trek through the Sawtooth Mountains, camp on the banks of the Skokomish River, and soak in the restorative waters of the Olympic Hot Springs. Spot hundreds of species of birds on the largest natural sand spit in the world or study starfish and sea stacks on the rugged northern coast- The best hikes of the Olympic Peninsula: Find your adventure with hike descriptions, directions, difficulty ratings, and elevation gains- Must-see highlights and unique experiences: Tour the oldest lighthouse on the Puget Sound, explore Kurt Cobain's hometown, or immerse yourself in the region's rich maritime history. Dig for a dinner of fresh razor clams and savor fresh-caught Dungeness crab. Stroll through a fragrant lavender farm, shop for unique handcrafted goods, or peruse small-town galleries for local art. Sample one-of-a-kind red blends and fruit wines or kick back with a local brew and some live music- Local insight from Washington-born journalist Jeff Burlingame on when to go, where to stay, and what to bring- Full-color photos and detailed maps throughout- Helpful background on the landscape, wildlife, climate, and local culture, plus tips for getting around the peninsulaWith Moon's practical tips and expert advice, you can experience the best of the Olympic Peninsula.Want more of the great outdoors? Try Moon Pacific Northwest Hiking.About Moon Travel Guides: Moon was founded in 1973 to empower independent, active, and conscious travel. We prioritize local businesses, outdoor recreation, and traveling strategically and sustainably. Moon Travel Guides are written by local, expert authors with great stories to tell-and they can't wait to share their favorite places with you.For more inspiration, follow @moonguides on social media.