Synopsis
Explains what laws are, how local, state, and federal laws are made, and what citizens can do to participate in the lawmaking process.
Barbara L. Talcroft - Children's Literature
Learning how their government works is certainly a priority for students at the earliest possible level. Scholastic's "True Book" series takes on the task by bringing middle readers basic information on civics written in brisk, clear prose and illustrated with engaging color photos. Complex concepts are not easy to explain, but this series makes a good beginning; one hopes the very large type is not off-putting for its intended audience, definitely not primary students. In this title, readers can learn what a law is, and how citizens of cities and states can influence the passage of a law or bill. The local legislative process is explained, including the role of city councils, mayors, and representatives to state legislatures or assemblies, as well as the difference between an initiative and a referendum. Kids will be amused by a colorful page about some really peculiar state laws: for example, it is illegal in Georgia to carry an ice cream cone in your back pocket on a Sunday. Another section leads students through the process of getting a federal law through the Senate and House of Representatives, while the final chapter encourages readers to become involved in issues important to them, citing the success of children in Washington State in getting the green darner dragonfly made the official state insect. Although the author does not appear to be an expert on government, a lawyer-consultant is listed. The book contains a useful glossary and a bibliography including some appropriate websites. 2004, Children's Press/Scholastic, and Ages 9 to 12.
Editorials
Children's Literature
Learning how their government works is certainly a priority for students at the earliest possible level. Scholastic's "True Book" series takes on the task by bringing middle readers basic information on civics written in brisk, clear prose and illustrated with engaging color photos. Complex concepts are not easy to explain, but this series makes a good beginning; one hopes the very large type is not off-putting for its intended audience, definitely not primary students. In this title, readers can learn what a law is, and how citizens of cities and states can influence the passage of a law or bill. The local legislative process is explained, including the role of city councils, mayors, and representatives to state legislatures or assemblies, as well as the difference between an initiative and a referendum. Kids will be amused by a colorful page about some really peculiar state laws: for example, it is illegal in Georgia to carry an ice cream cone in your back pocket on a Sunday. Another section leads students through the process of getting a federal law through the Senate and House of Representatives, while the final chapter encourages readers to become involved in issues important to them, citing the success of children in Washington State in getting the green darner dragonfly made the official state insect. Although the author does not appear to be an expert on government, a lawyer-consultant is listed. The book contains a useful glossary and a bibliography including some appropriate websites. 2004, Children's Press/Scholastic, and Ages 9 to 12.—Barbara L. Talcroft