Student Bibliography
Avi. Nothing but the Truth. New York: Orchard Books, 1991.
This is a documentary novel for more advanced readers. It is told through diary entries, letter and news clips. It tracks the events of a ninth grader who hums during the National Anthem when he should have been standing silently, at attention. A lesson plan entitled, "Exploring Free Speech and Persuasion" is available at read•write•think <readwritethink.org>to be used after reading the book.
Catrow, David. We the Kids: The Preamble to the Constitution of the United States. New York: Dial Books, 2002). As author and illustrator, Catrow provides a humorous approach to learning the meaning of the Preamble as three kids and a dog embark on a camping trip. This witty picture book will capture interest; encourage further reflection on the document while providing relevant material for struggling readers at this grade level.
Hunt, Irene. Across Five Aprils. New York: Berkley Publishing, 1964.
The novel is a bittersweet story of a young boy growing up in the turbulent years of the Civil War. It blends national history with personal narrative without sacrificing either. Several lesson plan guides are available through a search on read•write•think <readwritethink.org>
Krull, Kathleen. A Kid's Guide to America's Bill of Rights. New York: Avon Books, 1999. Through engaging text and beautiful illustrations, this book will help students learn the significance of the Bill of Rights. It details how Bill of Rights affects their daily life. Students will study the laws that protect the individual freedoms of everyone — even young people.
Comments: