11/01/2022
Gr 2–5—In these colorful volumes young readers are introduced to the basics of United States civics. Astro the Alien teams up with Earth friends Ben and Eva to learn about United States holidays, voting, and various political entities. In Public Holidays, they go back in time to explore Juneteenth, Independence Day, Indigenous Peoples' Day, and Veteran's Day. A class election allows for Ben and Eva to explain the voting process to Astro in Voting. A visit to the park invokes a lesson on how city halls are run in City Hall. A trip to Washington in Astro's machine allows the three to see the Capitol, Supreme Court, and White House wherein Astro learns of the duties of Congress, Supreme Court Justices, and the President. Astro is an attractive protagonist that children will enjoy. Fun and readable, these titles do an excellent job in introducing the youngest readers to the basic functions of local and national governments. VERDICT These bright and entertaining volumes will entertain and inform and should be considered for purchase where enhancements to civics titles are needed.
