For Which We Stand: How Our Government Works and Why It Matters

Gr 3-7–Foster, an Advanced Placement Government and Politics teacher at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, FL, provides an essential guide to the U.S. government for upper-elementary and middle school students. The book’s forward was penned by activist Yolanda Renee King, granddaughter of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King. The text describes topics such as the different types of government, the Electoral College, civil service positions, the duties of the president, and more. Foster implores readers to get involved. His encouragement is genuine, as he draws upon his former activist students as examples. This book is broad in scope, yet it’s written in age-appropriate language. McLaughlin’s illustrations accompany explanations, and infographics help clarify confusing concepts. The format invites children to read from cover to cover or jump around from section to section as needed. The back matter includes an extensive glossary that will help readers decode any unfamiliar words.