I have an ancient paperback source on the U.S. Constitution sitting in my office. I believe it may be the same one that induced many kids to doze off while reading. This new effort by Carla Mooney brings the topic to present day in an easy to read format that will keep our always on generation turning the pages to learn more.

The U.S. Constitution received a nod this past summer during the Democrat Convention. Although this book is intended for a middle grade audience, perhaps all candidates would benefit with this well laid out review on what keeps our nation’s democratic tradition in place.

BACKCOVER BLURB: In The U.S. Constitution: Discover How Democracy Works, children ages 9–12 learn about the foundation of democracy in the United States and how the documents crafted hundreds of years ago still have an impact on our country today.

• Integrates democracy with civics, social studies, language arts, and history.
• Readers use critical thinking skills to deconstruct the meaning of language used at different periods in American history.
• Examines the founding and structure of the U.S. government and the electoral process.
• Encourages readers to connect historic events to present-day political disagreements.

FIVE THINGS I LOVED

1. There are dozens of QR (Quick Response Codes) included throughout the book, enabling students to use present day technology to view primary sources on a smartphone or tablet.
2. Hands on activities are suggested in each section. A few of my favorites included MAKE YOUR OWN PARCHMENT or playing the role of a founding father as you write a series of tweets to make an argument for ratification.
3. A glossary is presented at the usual place in the closing pages. Many of the words also appear in a WORDS TO KNOW box on the book’s pages so you don’t have to keep going back and forth.
4. Colored drawings throughout keep those visual learners engaged.
5. There is a whole chapter devoted to IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS OF OTHER NATIONS. This gives the advanced learner who already knows the main topic a chance to extend their learning.

This smart and engaging addition to Nomad’s Press history titles will be a keeper for years to come and is perfect for this season of change – both in the weather and in politics.