Johnny Appleseed: The Legend and the Truth by Jane Yolen

Illustrated by Jim Burke. Yolen presents an interesting mix of fact and fiction in this picture book biography. Parchment style inserts include a 4-5 line verse followed by The History of Chapman's life from birth to death. At the bottom of the pages are interesting facts such as what he wrote in an IOU note to his father / brother. The illustrations are realistic and the natural colors blend well with the text. One standout illustration shows large hands with tiny apple seeds in the palms. This would be an interesting read-aloud and it could be used across the curriculum with Grades 1-4.