Bookverdict.com

Gr 5-Up Once again, Freedman demonstrates his masterful ability to focus on those aspects of a historical event, figure, or, in this case, document, that will intrigue readers and give history a sense of immediacy. He prefaces his thorough examination of the Bill of Rights with some engaging questions: Can schoolchildren be required to salute the American flag and recite the Pledge of Allegiance? Can a rap group be prosecuted for using "obscene" lyrics? Does the Constitution allow school officials to use physical punishment? Freedman briefly discusses the evol...Log In or Sign Up to Read More

Like a gifted and practiced teacher, Freedman leads young readers through an explanation of the Bill of Rights. For each of the ten amendments, he outlines historical background that informed the original writing, provides an overview of controversial aspects, and discusses landmark cases. The tone of this literary lecture is friendly, as if Freedman were having a real-time discussion with interested readers by sharing his thinking; answering anticipated questions ("Can burning an American flag be a permissible exercis...Log In or Sign Up to Read More