Library Book: The U.S. Constitution (Rise and Shine)

Discusses what the U.S. constitution is, how it was created, and why it is important.

This simply written, large-format book talks a little about the U. S. Constitution: what it is, when and why it was written, what it does, and why it is important. Illustrated with exceptionally clear, large color photos and reproductions of period paintings and engravings, the volume presents basic facts in an attractive format that is suitable for sharing with classroom groups. A great deal of information and explanation is left out, but that is inevitable, given the brevity of the text (about 150 words in the main section) and the age of the target audience. Back matter includes a brief bibliography, instructions for reaching the publisher s FactHound Internet portal for further research, and a glossary defining terms such as Bill of Rights, Revolutionary War, and law. Although children will still need an informed adult to answer their questions, this is a good starting place for talking about the Constitution before a visit to the National Archives, on Constitution Day, or as an adjunct to studies. --Booklist, Vol. 103, No. 3; Page 54, October 2006

Learning about the Constitution is a big concept for young minds, but this beautiful picture book presents the basics in a child-friendly, appealing manner. Colorful full-page photos and paintings take the reader back to the 1700s, where it all began. Included in the art/photo pages is a painting of the Revolutionary War, a painting of the thirty-nine leaders who signed the Constitution, a photo of the Supreme Court building, and much more. The artwork complements the simple, child-friendly text. The book includes many useful features such as subject-specific vocabulary words, which are defined in a glossary, a table of contents, an index, a list of Internet sites related to the book, and a list of supplemental books. This works well as a read aloud, and is an excellent resource for a social studies class. Parents and teachers may want to employ other tools such as stories, dramatization, field trips, etc to help make this concept relevant to young learners. --Childrens Literature Comprehensive Database, January 2007