School Library Journal Review

Gr 3-5-These books clearly explain challenging concepts through large print and fairly simple vocabulary. The interesting, well-captioned full-color photos enliven these otherwise potentially dull presentations. Each book has four or five sections, each of which is about 10 pages long. The first title explains the difference between "nonimmigrants," people who work or study here but do not plan to stay, and "immigrants," or "Lawful Permanent Residents." It outlines the general qualifications for the immigration process and discusses problems that immigrants commonly face. Ditchfield explains the meaning of civil rights and how they are guaranteed under the Constitution. Much of the text is devoted to the various amendments, especially the First Amendment. The fight for civil rights for women and African Americans is also addressed. Marilyn Prolman's The Constitution (Children's, 1995) provides a view of constitutional history leading to the Bill of Rights. Serving Your Community begins with a discussion of the volunteer spirit encouraged by John Kennedy. It outlines the types of volunteer work that assist individuals and ways to help planet Earth. The last section suggests ways that children can become involved in volunteerism. For many more ideas for service projects for slightly older children, use Barbara A. Lewis's The Kid's Guide to Service Projects (Free Spirit, 2003).-Lynda Ritterman, Atco Elementary School, Waterford, NJ (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.