Handel Who Knew What He Liked. Written by M. T. Anderson and illustrated by Kevin Henkes

Candlewick Press, 2013

One Beetle too Many. The Extraordinary Adventures of Charles Darwin. Written by Kathryn Lasky and illustrated by Matthew Trueman.

Candlewick Press, 2014.

Recommended for grades 3-6.

Did you know that composer George Frederick Handel was once challenged to a duel? Or that scientist Charles Darwin’s childhood nickname was “Gas” because of the deliberate explosions he and his brother set off in their makeshift laboratory?

The two books reviewed here are part of the Candlewick Biographies series for children. Each examines “...a turning point or defining moment in the life of a famous person and how it led to significant contributions.”

See my full review of both books at Good Reads with Ronna and find out how both of these men dealt with domineering fathers and realized their dreams.