Freedman, R. (2003). In Defense of Liberty: The Story of America's Bill of Rights. New York: Holiday House: ISBN: 0823415856
· Plot Summary
This text begins with a hypothetical situation in which the reader is dragged out of their home, handcuffed, and with a hood over their head. They are asked to imagine what it would be like, and how much more horrifying it would be to not know why, not be allowed to call a lawyer, and to be aware of the torture of others in close proximity. It may seem an extreme measure, but it sets the stage well for this book. The second chapter aprises tweens of the political issues that led to the creation of the Bill of Rights, problems as well as solutions. Each subsequent chapter explains the Amendments, then provides evidence of their needing to exist using examples from the past up until the modern day.
· Critical Evaluation
A solid, no frills explanation of why the Bill of Rights is such an important document. Includes illustrations and photographs, but not to the extent that they detract from the textual content.
· Reader’s Annotation
Ideal introduction to the events leading up to the Bill of Rights creation, the amendments' purpose, and how they continue to protect U.S. citizens today.
· Information about the author
Russell Freedman has received several notable awards, including an ALA Best Book for Young Readers award, a NCSS Notable Children's Trade Book award, and several Newberry Awards. He lives in New York City, and the majority of his books are based on historic topics.
· Genre
Non-Fiction
Reference
· Curriculum Ties
History
Government
Law
· Booktalking Ideas
How the United States of America began.
Lawmaking in the 18th century.
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 7-9/Ages 12-14
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
I wanted to find a basic reference book on some aspect of American government. My daughter has not been well educated in this area, and I often supplement her school curriculum with books of this kind.
