Module 12-Biography and Autobiography

Just Being Audrey

Cardillo, M. (2011). Just being Audrey. New York: Balzer + Bray.

 

 

 

 

 Summary

This book tells the story of Audrey Hepburn's life starting with her childhood dreams of becoming a ballerina.  Her time in Nazi occupied Holland and her move to London that eventually began her acting career.  She became a Broadway star that opened doors to Hollywood and starring roles in several movies.  Not only was she talented and hard working, but she was kind, generous, and very humble.  She became a Goodwill Ambassador and did all she could to help children all over the world.

 

Impression

The tale of Audrey Hepburn's life is told through easy to read narration and beautiful illustrations.  She was a beautiful person inside and out, and her story is one of dedication, working hard, being kind to others, and caring for everyone.  This book is very kid friendly and is constantly being checked out (by girls) at our school library.

 

Review

Grades 1-3. It’s hard to believe life for Audrey Hepburn was ever anything but smart clothes, quirky expressions, and wistful gazes into the eyes of Cary Grant, but Cardillo makes a strong case to the contrary. Growing up in WWII–era Europe, Audrey wanted only to be a dancer, but the other girls made fun of her physical hurdles: “She was too tall, her feet were too big, and her neck was too long,” and “her eyes seemed too big for her head.” Young readers will get the message: these were precisely the traits that made Audrey an iconic beauty as an adult. In short order, she was spotted by entertainment heavyweights for her je ne sais quoi and quickly catapulted to fame. Denos’ soft pastel illustrations cut just the right Audrey outline (complete with flapping neck scarf), and fans will especially enjoy picking out the movie roles depicted in a two-page spread of costumes. Her later humanitarian deeds are given their due, but it is Audrey’s simple kindness that is emphasized throughout.

Booklist. (2010). 107(7).

Library Use
1.  Introducing biographies to younger readers.