Democracy

Gr 6–10—These excellent overviews explore the evolution and development of influential and powerful forms of government: their roots, rise (and sometimes demise), and impact today. The books define common characteristics and principles in each one and discuss milestones from early times, philosophers, influential documents, political events, and dynamic leaders. Readers learn how economic, religious, and military factors work to define a government. The books explore how different governments function, how leaders maintain order, and what life is like under that form of government. The text-heavy narratives include sidebars to expand information. The well-chosen illustrations and photographs feature lengthy captions, but some information would have been more accessible in the main texts. Considering often volatile nature of world politics, these books offer up-to-date, balanced discussions. Useful for social-studies and history units.—June Shimonishi, Torrance Public Library, CA