Nelson Mandela is specifically written to meet the needs of adolescents and adults who are reluctant readers. The photographs, maps, and illustrations reflect the text, making the words easy to decode. This high-interest, low-vocabulary biography is ideal for English as a Second Language or adult basic education students. Nelson Mandela (1918-2013) is the most widely-known figure in the struggle against South African apartheid. He spent 27 years in prison for his beliefs. He was released from prison in 1990. Four years later, Mandela became the first black president of South Africa.