Presidential elections and other cool facts

Gr 4--7--This text guides young readers, elementary through middle school, into the vital roles of the members of the House of Representatives, Senate, Electoral College, and several other high-ranking government positions and how they work collectively with the Commander in Chief. From cover to cover, Sobel's book attracts readers with cartoon-type images, informational text boxes, and amazing facts about historic presidents and contemporary leaders. Illustrations throughout illuminate the road to the White House; these images include the historic Constitution, a calendar denoting Election Day, and a family tree of several presidents. Sobel weaves in historical firsts, from the oldest and youngest presidents to the role of their wives, into this comprehensive narrative. Along the way, the author includes thought-provoking questions and statements that challenge readers' thoughts about the inner workings of the system: "[The electors would be an assembly of wise men and learned elders [but] it hasn't always worked that way." He gives students identifiable examples of how this process mirrors typical student council elections at local schools. In his summation, Sobel asks if the reader would one day be president, inspiring young minds to think beyond the present and into the future. Special features including bold vocabulary, a glossary of terms, reference books, and more; websites are jewels for independent learners and classroom teachers alike. VERDICT This book's comprehensive approach and conversational style invite readers to learn about the election process for its top leader, from declaring candidacy to the first day on the job. Highly recommended for all juvenile nonfiction collections.--Tanya Haynes