Russell Freedman rarely writes a biography without receiving accolades. His latest is the story of the fourth of seven children born to poor Swedish immigrants, and it seems Babe's life was set up for struggle. During her life she fought poverty, gender stereotyping, the world's confusion at a female athlete whose passion for, and skill at sports crossed boundaries, until she met her final contender--cancer. Freedman does an excellent job of surrounding Babe in historical and personal context so her individualistic and sometimes apparently self-proud persona makes total sense. The book is filled with wonderful photographs, pithy quotations, and the depth of research and understanding for which Freeman is deservedly esteemed. 2000, Clarion, $18.00. Ages 9 up.