Focused more on Churchill's growing-up times while still including adult highlights, this biography takes on an almost novel-like air. As expected, Churchill's special qualities, drive and intelligence, lead to his role as one of the most influential leaders of the twentieth century. The surprise is the academic unevenness of his school years and the consternation that his development brings in a father whose respect Winston craves. The reader will enjoy the flow, but the omission of dates is a flaw that stands glaringly. Probably a good choice for an intermediate grade biography book report, it would need supplementing for timeline accuracy and dates.