Landslide!

Children's Literature

Dan Gutman turns to nonfiction in Landslide! Every four years, he begins his introduction, the grownups of America go a little crazy. He promises to answer questions in a straightforward and simple manner, and fulfills that promise by giving over a hundred and twenty answers to questions about the presidency, government, campaigning, candidates, voting, and the election. He focuses on subjects that interest kids, like how much it costs to run, or if the candidates hate each other. He does not shy away from the truth. His answer regarding the lack of female and minority presidents, in a word—bigotry. From the basics to hard-hitting issues, he provides answers with clarity and sincerity, explains with analogies, and flavors facts with quotations and anecdotal stories from history. Often his questions and answers seem like having a dialogue with an author who is really listening. And that is what we have to remember. Kids are listening and watching and it will not be long before they are voting. If we give them good books that are clear and understandable, inspiring and intriguing, one day they will care enough to make good choices when it is their turn to vote. 2000, Simon and Schuster, $3.99. Ages 10 to 14. Reviewer: Susie Wilde

Children's Literature

It is that time again. That wonderful time that comes every four years whether we like it or not. Most ignore it as evident by the less than fifty-percent voter turnout each time. That's a shame because the presidential election should be one of our most important civic activities. Now is the chance to get the kids excited about elections and the process that should reap benefits for years to come. This text will answer any and all questions about the election process including the history of our election system with a few facts about the current candidates thrown in. With just this book a classroom can learn what is necessary to hold its own presidential election during. Buy it, read it, and use it. I know I will, and my students will love every minute of it. 2000, Aladdin Paperbacks, Ages 12 up, $3.99. Reviewer: Scott S. Floyd