The Who Is/Who Was series is wildly popular so recently I decided to pick up a few different titles to see what all the fuss is about. This book presents an interesting biography of politician Hillary Rodham Clinton, highlighting her accomplishments while also humanizing her with details about her personal life.

Short chapters peppered with illustrations make for a quick read, with sidebar pages providing additional historical context. For instance, one two-page pullout includes information about female politicians around the world who reached the highest political office in their respective countries. The simple black-and-white line drawings don't really necessarily add much beyond breaking up the text, although there are a number of maps that help children see the physical scope of the issues discussed.

Some bigger "adult" issues are washed over a little; for instance, Bill Clinton's impeachment scandal is described as regarding "lying about a romance with a young woman working in the White House," which is putting it very mildly. However, this book does seem to hit many of the most salient points about Hillary Rodham Clinton's life, even those that are unpleasant (e.g., the September 11 terrorist attacks, the Iraq war, etc.).

Due to when it was written, the book ends on a high note with Clinton becoming the first female presidential nominee from the Democratic Party, and not with her political defeat. A few other more recent details, such as the birth of a grandson, are obviously also not included. Backmatter concludes the book with a timeline of Clinton's life as well as one of historical events during her lifetime. ( )