The United States Constitution
The United States Constitution - A Graphic Adaptation
Pull this book from your box and watch a smile cross your teen’s face. He knows he needs to study the United States Constitution; he just never expected to enjoy it!
The writer of The United States Constitution - A Graphic Adaptation undertakes the daunting task of going through the entire Constitution, article by article, amendment by amendment, explaining the meaning and implications of each - in teen-friendly graphic format.
A fine introduction to United States legal history, The United States Constitution - A Graphic Adaptation explores the historical context in which various elements of the Constitution originated. It also includes the dark side of constitutional history. Controversies are put in historical context. Nearly every major case that the Supreme Court has ruled on is explored, including cases where it has reversed itself. Even cases that are less popular in Christian circles.
Though the text of the Constitution itself is only partly quoted, the substance and explanations remain true to the text. With so many loved ones, past, present and future, asked to defend this historically resilient document, fully understanding the United States Constitution is imperative.
A Caveat
Note: The United States Constitution – A Graphic Adaptation discusses even the most controversial of amendments and Supreme Court decisions, including, among others, Roe vs. Wade. While it states that others disagree with the Court’s decision and presents the issue respectfully, it represents the current U.S. Constitution without criticism. Because of this, please discuss with your teen the statements and assumptions of the book, including worldviews.
Also, The United States Constitution – A Graphic Adaptation pulls examples from real life to illustrate the principles of the Constitution. So a wide range of topics – polygamy, marijuana, rape, racism, and so on – make passing cameo appearances. Although this book wouldn’t be appropriate for very young readers, we feel that most high school students will be ready to benefit from it. Provided you are willing to discuss and reason through the issues together.
If you would like to look at the especially concerning pages before handing the book off to your child, here are the page numbers you will want to look at and why:
- Pages 9-10 delve into worldview questions of God’s preordaining.
- Page 38 references evolution.
- Page 116 discusses birth control, Planned Parenthood, abortion, and homosexuality.
From the Publisher:
Our leaders swear to uphold it, our military to defend it. It is the blueprint for the shape and function of government itself and what defines Americans as Americans. But how many of us truly know our Constitution?
The United States Constitution: A Graphic Adaptation uses the art of illustrated storytelling to breathe life into our nation's cornerstone principles. Simply put, it is the most enjoyable and groundbreaking way to read the governing document of the United States. Spirited and visually witty, it roves article by article, amendment by amendment, to get at the meaning, background, and enduring relevance of the law of the land.
What revolutionary ideas made the Constitution's authors dare to cast off centuries of rule by kings and queens? Why do we have an electoral college rather than a popular vote for president and vice president? How did a document that once sanctioned slavery, denied voting rights to women, and turned a blind eye to state governments running roughshod over the liberties of minorities transform into a bulwark of protection for all?
The United States Constitution answers all of these questions. Sure to surprise, challenge, and provoke, it is hands down the most memorable introduction to America's founding document.
Publisher: Hill and Wang
Written By: Jonathan Hennessey
Art By: Aaron McConnell
Faith-Based: No
Pages: 160
Size: 6 x 9 inches
ISBN: 9780809094707
Binding: Paperback
Copyright: 2008
Published In: USA
Edition: First
Illustrations: Color
Awards and Endorsements:
YALSA 2009 Great Graphic Novels for Teens