The author shares the life stories of Venus and Serena Williams, who charged onto center court in professional tennis at the end of the 20th century with a force never before seen in the sport. No other women tennis players have matched their strength, their speed, or their overall athleticism, and none have achieved the status and celebrity they have gained on and off the court as they powered to the number one and two rankings in the Women's Tennis Association (WTA). Venus and Serena Williams represent in many ways a shift in attitudes concerning women in sports, particularly African...

Condoleezza Rice's story, her experiences, and her contributions to our society, offer a unique opportunity to consider the social and historical discourses of our times, both past and present. Rice, a descendent of slaves who rose to become one of the most influential women in the world, represents many of the hopes, conflicts, and questions that characterize the beginning of the 21st century in American society. Her story allows the telling of many others that have intersected with Rice's across the course of American history. The time period covered in this book (1954-2005) was a time...

In an era far removed from the African American celebrity athletes of today, Olympic great Jesse Owens achieved fame by running faster and jumping farther than anyone in the world. Author Jacqueline Edmondson explores Owens' struggles and hard-earned accomplishments, as well as how he paved the way for future generations of athletes, including color-line shatterer Jackie Robinson.

It is difficult to imagine a time when African Americans were not part of professional sports in the United States. So many admired and beloved African-American athletes are national heroes today:...

Condoleezza Rice's story, her experiences, and her contributions to our society, offer a unique opportunity to consider the social and historical discourses of our times, both past and present. Rice, a descendent of slaves who rose to become one of the most influential women in the world, represents many of the hopes, conflicts, and questions that characterize the beginning of the 21st century in American society. Her story allows the telling of many others that have intersected with Rice's across the course of American history. The time period covered in this book (1954-2005) was a time...

This biography offers students and general readers an insightful look into Jerry Garcia's creative genius as a founding member of The Grateful Dead and the various influences on his work as he contributed to the countercultural movement in the United States.

As a founding member of The Grateful Dead, Jerry Garcia became famous for his work as a key creative force in this band. Known for free flowing jam sessions, psychedelic drug use, and a loyal fan base, The Grateful Dead combined a variety of genres, including blues, folk and country rock to create new and different sounds than those...

John Lennon was a singer, songwriter, activist, artist, and writer whose life and work left an indelible mark on rock music and the world. Lennon first became famous as the founding member of The Beatles, and his songwriting partnership with bandmate Paul McCartney remains legendary in the history of pop music. Lennon's creative work, which extended well beyond his years as a Beatle and lasted until his final days, still provides enjoyment and inspiration to millions around the world.

This biography provides a comprehensive account of John Lennon's life for students and general readers,...