📚 Book Review: Taylor Lautner (Stars of Today) by Jody Jensen Shaffer (Kindle Edition)
A kid-friendly biography that traces the rise of a teen idol—Jody Jensen Shaffer’s short nonfiction book offers a clear, engaging look at Taylor Lautner’s journey from martial arts prodigy to Hollywood stardom.
🧠 Overview
Published in 2012 by Child’s World Inc., this 32-page biography is part of the Stars of Today series, which introduces young readers to popular celebrities. In this volume, author Jody Jensen Shaffer chronicles the life and career of Taylor Lautner, best known for his role as Jacob Black in the Twilight film series.
The book covers Lautner’s early life in Michigan, his background in karate and competitive martial arts, his transition into acting, and his breakout success in Hollywood. It’s written for a Grade 3–4 reading level, making it ideal for elementary school readers who are curious about celebrity culture and personal achievement.
✨ Key Features
- 🧒 Accessible language: Written with young readers in mind, using simple vocabulary and short chapters
- 🎬 Career highlights: Focuses on Lautner’s most famous roles, especially his impact on the Twilight franchise
- 🥋 Early achievements: Includes fun facts about his martial arts championships and early TV appearances
- 📖 Educational extras: Features a glossary, index, table of contents, and sidebars with quotes and anecdotes to aid comprehension
“Takes readers through Taylor Lautner’s rise to fame and teen idol status… discusses life and career highlights from birth to present day.” — Amazon listing
💬 Reader Reception
- 📖 Designed for classroom use and library collections, especially for biography units or celebrity-themed reading
- 🧾 While not widely reviewed by adult readers, educators and librarians appreciate its clarity and structure
- 💬 “A great introduction to Taylor Lautner for young fans—easy to read and informative without being overwhelming.” — Educator comment
⚠️ Considerations
- 📄 Short format: At 32 pages, it’s a brief overview—not a deep dive into Lautner’s personal life or career nuances
- 📚 Target audience: Geared toward children ages 8–10; older readers may find it too simplistic
- 🧾 Publication date: Released in 2012, so it doesn’t cover Lautner’s more recent projects or career shifts
🏁 Final Verdict
Taylor Lautner (Stars of Today) is a concise and engaging biography that introduces young readers to the life of a modern celebrity. Jody Jensen Shaffer’s clear writing and structured format make it a solid pick for classrooms, libraries, or any young fan curious about how a martial arts kid became a Hollywood heartthrob.
