Challenges for Democracy. ReferencePoint Press, 2023. $33.05 each or $165.25 Set of 5. Grades 7-12.

Loonin, Meryl. Clash of Powers: The President Versus Congress. 978-1-678-20302-3.
Hulick, Kathryn. Media Literacy: Information and Disinformation. 978-1-678-20304-7.
Castillo, Kristina C. Political Parties: A Division and Distrust. 978-1-678-20306-1.
Allen, John. The Supreme Court: Activism Versus Restraint. 978-1-678-20308-5.
Kallen, Stuart A. Voting: Rights and Suppression. 978-1-678-20310-8.

This reviewer had the opportunity to read Clash of Powers: The President Versus Congress and The Supreme Court: Activism Versus Restraint. Each title has an introduction and five chapters followed by source notes, for further research, and an index. Clash of Powers begins with background and discussion on the events of January 6, 2021. Chapters that follow discuss separate but overlapping powers; legislating in polarized times; waging war; appointments, removals, and impeachments; and restoring balance between the branches. While some historical times are discussed (The Hard Lessons of the Vietnam War), the primary focus of the text is on the most recent several presidents and controversies during and after their terms. The Supreme Court presents information on recently appointed justices, historical cases during the Civil Rights Era, abortion laws, and voting rights and shows how the Court strives to have balance and maintain integrity. While recommended for grades 7-12, some basic background or vocabulary would be helpful for readers to comprehend the complexity of each title’s topic.

THOUGHTS: This series is a recommended purchase for secondary libraries, especially high schools. It will be most utilized when students study (or have an interest in) government and its branches and structures.

300s Social Sciences