(4) 4-6 American Citizenship series. These books are designed to give young readers an overview of how the American political system was created and how it operates. Primary sources (e.g., an excerpt from Washington's farewell address) extend the serviceable texts, but related core-standards-geared prompts and activities may distract general researchers. Photographs and charts provide additional insight. "Fast Facts" and discussion questions are appended. Reading list. Glos., ind. Review covers the following American Citizenship titles: Modern Political Parties, Our Electoral Leaders, Voting and Elections, and Constitutional Rights.

Reviewer: Luther B. Clegg

(4) 4-6 How America Works series. Designed to give middle-grade readers a basic understanding of American governmental operations, this series includes a broad overview (Government); information about the function of each branch; framework for our country's individual and collective freedoms (Bill of Rights and Constitution); and clarification on the electoral process (Elections). Photographs, illustrations, charts, and sidebars add interest to the choppy but informative texts. Reading list. Glos., ind. Review covers the following How America Works titles: How Elections Work, How the Government Works, How the Judicial Branch Works, The Bill of Rights, The U.S. Constitution, How the Executive Branch Works, and How the Legislative Branch Works.

Reviewer: Luther B. Clegg

(4) 4-6 Your Government--How It Works series. Each book in this series describes what led to the founding of a government institution, what laws it has at its disposal to enforce mandates, and what it has accomplished. Illustrated with reproductions and photographs, the volumes contain explanations that can be confusing, though they do provide in-depth treatment of their subjects. Bib., glos., ind. [Review covers these Your Government titles: The Federal Aviation Administration, The Environmental Protection Agency, The Food and Drug Administration, The Electoral College, The National Institutes of Health, and The National Transportation Safety Board.]

Reviewer: Jeannine M. Chapman