John Jay (Founding Fathers Series)

Describes the life and political career of the man who was a delegate to the First Continental Congress, one of the authors of "The Federalist," and first Chief Justice of the ...

Children's Literature

Each entry in this series covers the unique features of man important to the struggle for American independence. This volume covers John Jay's early years, family, education, the issues he was involved in, important historical context, his contributions to the formation of early government, and his last years. Because Jay was never President, he often gets short shrift in social studies classes, but here he is seen as an important diplomat to Britain, the first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, and a great legal mind who sacrificed much for his country. Stuart Kallan's text is interesting and readable, less like a textbook series and more like an informed enthusiast, which upper elementary and middle schoolers will appreciate. The inviting look of the text is assisted with a calligraphy heading on every double-page spread or two and a generous selection of illustrations, etchings, photographs and archival material. Endmatter includes websites, a timeline, short glossary and index. All in all, this series is a welcome and attractive contribution to the literature about the country's founding fathers. Part of the "Founding Fathers" series. 2001, Abdo Consulting Group, $24.21. Ages 9 to 14. Reviewer:Susan Hepler