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| D is For Democracy!
The organizing device for this book on the U.S and its government is the alphabet, with each letter introducing a person, place, thing, or concept. From "Amendment" and "Bill of Rights" to "You and me" and "Zeitgeist," each letter inspires a rhymed couplet about the topic, though some are a bit arcane: "X marks the spot / for a meeting one fall / of the very first Congress / in Philadelphia's Carpenter's Hall." The accompanying text includes two or three informative paragraphs written in polysyllabic words at a much higher reading level than the verse. The book's intended audience is a puzzle, as readers old enough to understand the text may well be put off by the alphabet theme and the verse. However, the broad appeal of Juhasz's colorful artwork is clear. Sure to please anyone from young children to adults, the drawings have an informal, accessible look bolstered by abundant energy, evident skill in caricature, and a sure sense of composition. --Booklist |
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| If I Were President
This easy picture book provides a nice introduction to the presidency for primary-grade children. In short, simple sentences and mostly broad, nonspecific terms, it describes the job's diverse responsibilities: "If I were president, the people would be my boss, and I'd have to find out what they wanted." Although serious aspects of the job such as being commander-in-chief of the armed forces and creating laws with Congress are mentioned, Stier gives the most attention to lighter duties--tossing out the first pitch of the baseball season and lighting the nation's Christmas tree. DiSalvo-Ryan's illustrations complement the text nicely, depicting children of different races and genders as "presidents" carrying on the various duties of the office and enjoying such unusual perks as having a personal chef and a movie theater right at home. This is a rosy picture of a very stressful job, but youngsters will pick up some good general information, which teachers can use as a starting point in class and expand upon according to the age and ability of their students. Lauren Peterson --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title. --Booklist |
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| If I Ran For President
This title is a step above the usual election books, both in content and entertainment value. Six children take turns explaining the election process as if they were running for president. They discuss their decision to run, campaigning, primaries and conventions, debating, being interviewed, meeting the public, voting, and being sworn in on Inauguration Day. Stier does a good job of explaining election details, both in an introductory note about electoral votes and in the text itself. The fact that one must be 35 years of age is only mentioned in the note. The author adds flavor by providing humorous examples, such as the need to smile despite indigestion. However, the multiple narrators can be confusing. One must rely on the illustrations to know which child is speaking, and sometimes it is not apparent at first glance. The lively cartoons cheerfully clarify the action and reinforce the concepts. Libraries will want to consider this kid-friendly title. --School Library Journal |
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Woodrow, the White House Mouse
Woodrow, the White House Mouse tells the story of the presidency and the art, architecture and history of the White House, through the adventures of Woodrow G. Washingtail, President of the United Mice of America, and his family. Written and illustrated by Peter and Cheryl Barnes. In rhyming verse, grade K-4. |
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House Mouse, Senate Mouse
House Mouse, Senate Mouse teaches children about our nation's Capitol and how our laws are made, from the research of a bill, through the signing at the President's desk. Written by Peter and Cheryl Barnes. Characters include the Squeaker of the House and the Senate Mouse-jority Leader. In rhyming verse, grade K-4. |
