A Picture Book of Harry Houdini

Harry Houdini astounded audiences around the globe with his death-defying acts and illusions.

With his wife, Bess, often by his side, he freed himself from ropes, handcuffs, straitjackets, and prison cells. Once he even made a ten-thousand-pound elephant vanish into thin air! Yet Harry's life was not always so glamorous. When he was a boy, he shined shoes and did odd jobs to help make ends meet. But a career in magic was always in the cards for Harry. Readers will be mesmerized by this captivating biography of one of the most celebrated escape artists and magicians in history.

For almost thirty years, David Adler’s Picture Book Biography series has profiled famous people who changed the world. Colorful, kid-friendly illustrations combine with Adler’s “expert mixtures of facts and personality” (Booklist) to introduce young readers to history through compelling biographies of presidents, heroes, inventors, explorers, and adventurers. These books are ideal for first and second graders interested in history or who need reliable sources for school book reports.David A. Adler has written more than a hundred books for children, including his well-known Picture Book Biography series. A former teacher, he lives with his family in New York State. Visit him on the web at www.davidaadler.com.

Matt Collins has illustrated numerous picture books for children. His art has also appeared in the New York Times, the Washington Post, and Sports Illustrated for Kids, among other publications. Visit his website at www.mattcollins.com.