We The People: The United States Constitution Explored and Explained

by Aura Lewis, Evan Sargent

“An enlightening addition to upper elementary and middle school collections for its in-depth look at the Constitution and the U.S. government” – School Library JournalSee the U.S. Constitution in a new light with this bold, modern and accessible illustrated guide to the document that helped define democracy.   With the 2020 Presidential election around the corner, there has never been a better time to take a closer look at the Constitution, the bedrock of U.S. politics. Inquisitive minds will have their questions vividly answered – and new ones raised – by a mix of striking illustrations and clear, engaging text, including passages from the Constitution given in plain English.   As well as a detailed history covering the original Constitution, the Bill of Rights and all Amendments, discover how this milestone in American democracy shapes and is shaped by the world at large. We The People shows that, far from a fusty old piece of paper, the U.S. Constitution is a living, evolving rulebook that is as relevant today as it has ever been.A fresh take on a monumental document, navigating in style its history and its life today.Excerpts from the Constitution are presented here in plain English to help young thinkers better understand the role it plays in everyday life.Accessible, energetic text accompanied by contemporary, powerful illustrations allows children aged 10 and older to re-think the Constitution in a totally new way.A balanced examination that does not shy away from addressing the difficulties of interpreting and adapting the Constitution for the modern world. We The People takes the Constitution out of its display case, blows off the dust and re-imagines this piece of history for the next generation.

Genres: Nonfiction, Middle Grade, History, Childrens, Picture Books, Government, Politics

128 pages, Paperback

Published July 9, 2024

About the author

Aura’s work explores women’s stories, memory, and identity through visual narrative. Her practice spans illustration, books, and painting, all rooted in storytelling and imagination. She holds an MFA from the School of Visual Arts in New York City and is inspired by fashion from around the world, playful color, vintage design, and popular culture.

Reviews

[Tes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! I remember being taught about these things at a much younger age and as someone who studies politics, I still often read books that attempt to explain the government and laws - but I find this to be one of the clearest ones yet, especially for those first learning about it or even for those trying to understand it better.

The book gives a great overview of how the government works, the different branches and its laws - all with great examples and helpful explanations which reflect on both sides of the situation. It puts everything into context this helps to reflect on certain decisions and why there may be arguments against certain amendments nowadays; the situation was different when the constitution and amendments were created.

There’s plenty of fun facts and extra bits of information which help the book come alive so much more. Generally, people find that politics is so far removed from them and difficult to understand - I hope that this book might help change that, as politics have and still are formed by people (who are no different from ‘us’). I found that the questions helped reflect on what you have read; asking what you would do or think helps you see whether you have totally understood it. The artwork was incredible - it was amazing to look at and the colours made everything so lively!

As a woman, the focus on representation was great; it’s not something I personally learned about in school. As said in the introduction, the focus has always been on white men and it was refreshing to read about all the other people who helped shape both politics but most certainly also our reality today.

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for this marvellous opportunity!

One thing I am ashamed to admit is that I didn't know much about the US political system's actual hierarchical structure before reading this; so, when I saw this book, I knew I was the target audience (aside from the fact I'm an adult). This is a really clear, concise look into the basics of the US political system and the structure of their society. I believe that this book would be absolutely excellent for years 4 and above to teach them about the political system of the US. This book has some very cute, bright illustrations accompanying the information explaining the details of the Congress, Senate, House of Representatives, and the different amendment rights and some issues within them (including racism, intersectionality, etc.). I thought that, overall, this was a really insightful introduction to US politics for kids that covers all angles! An excellent read!

[Sarah Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a whole, I thought this was an interesting book for kids to break down how the constitution was set up and what each part discussed. I would say the book is pretty liberal…most of the politicians and topics are viewed from a liberal viewpoint. But if you are reading it with your kids, whether you agree or disagree, it’s a great book to have real discussions with your kids. I definitely disagreed with it on many “key” issues, but it opened lots of good discussion topics for our family and also allows us all to see different viewpoints. 3.5-4 stars.

[Andréa]

Note: I accessed digital review copies of this book through Edelweiss and NetGalley.

[joyce w. laudon · Rating 5 out of 5]

How many of you reading this review remember when Khzir Khan held up his copy of the Constitution during the last election cycle?  How many of you recall anything that you learned about this document during your school years?  It is so incredibly important to understand our Constitution, maybe never more than at this particular time.


This book provides a wonderful introduction (or refresher) to the important points that are included in the Constitution.  It truly deserves a place in school and home libraries. The authors do a marvelous job of bringing their text to readers in a readable way and the illustrations will also engage children. 


The authors begin by acknowledging the complexity of the Constitution and the difficulty that readers may find when encountering it .  Nonetheless, they encourage children to see the original document in DC if they can.  They then go on to make the Constitution accessible and relevant.  There are clear explanations of  the document and children will understand concepts including the branches of government, the amendments and more.  They will also learn lots of trivia facts; for example, they will find out that the Constitution was written in secret.  There are also many "What do you think?" sections that will invite readers to explore concepts..


I highly recommend this book.  Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read it and to offer my opinion of it.

[Clazzzer C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not being from the US we know and are taught very little about the constitution of the most powerful country in the world. Every country has a constitution I’m sure but we hear about America’s more than that of any other nation. This book clearly outlined its contents- in a well explained, informed and transparent manner. My sons and I dissected it and debated the meaning behind the different clauses. We discussed the need for such rules and regulations and what actions on the part of citizens could lead to a person’s constitutional rights being denied. It really was a worth while and informative read and I cannot wait to use it in my classroom while teaching when we return to school.

[April Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an interesting and engaging book about the Constitution of the United States for kids, or anyone really. The information is presented in easy-to-digest bits, with lots of context mixed in on how the amendments are important today. The text gives many opportunities for discussion, with questions appearing throughout. The illustrations add interest, and really, pictures make learning more fun, right? While this book is geared toward middle grade children, I think all ages can benefit from this, as it helps put the Constitution into perspective- it's a living document, meant to grow as our country grows, and it's always relevant.

#WeThePeople #NetGalley

[Ellon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book did an excellent job of making the Constitution easily understandable. It breaks down each section and amendment very clearly. It also has inserts that encourage the reader to think about the ideals in the Constitution and what they mean today or what should or shouldn't change. The book also does a great job of pointing out and explaining systemic racism, sexism, ableism, etc. I think it's done is a mostly neutral way but I could see people with far-right values saying this is "brain-washing" etc. (just on the fact that it mentions intersectionality).

I would highly suggest this book for purchase in a school library.

[Iris · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great introduction to the Constitution with narratives that elucidate key concepts such as the example of how the three branches of the government came together with the Lilly Ledbetter Act of 2009. Interesting sidebars highlight information like the free breakfast program ran by the Black Panthers and that Calvin Coolidge's pet lion cubs in the White House! Readers are also prompted with thoughtful discussion questions throughout the book. For example, "If you could start a (political) party, what would it be all about?"

[Aolund · Rating 3 out of 5]

A pretty effective explanation of the US constitution, broken down into all of its parts and accompanied by cute illustrations showing diverse people. The type face was difficult to read and distracting, a challenge compounded by the many little side bars and insets, but overall this could be a useful text for including in a civics or us history class for middle or elementary school students. Fairly even-handed and careful to include matters of contention and debate, this book is nonetheless unafraid to frankly discuss racism and prejudice in the US.

[Rachel Bodner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I learned so much myself while reading this with my 11YO. We did a couple spreads each night, after reading a chapter book, and it sparked great conversation. It also connected to history, political, and legal podcasts we listen to in the car. Bonus points for including information about our friend Debbie Weisman and her local fight for separation of church and state, which made it all the way to the Supreme Court!

[Dawna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well "Explored and Explained." Well written & illustrated at a middle grade level, which I liked as it was concise, easy to absorb & understand, yet highly intelligent. I needed this at present, as I'm endeavoring to become more knowledgeable of our Constitution & thus, exactly the abuses & gross ignorance committed by our current "leader."

[Becky Lougee · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fabulous review of the US Constitution with delightful artwork and well designed, easy to read side notes. Targeted to young teens but a perfect read for any age category. It will make you think!

[Rebecca Batley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a great, well illustrated guide of the constitution. Perfect for ks2/ks3 children. I’m ordering copies for the library and classroom.

[Lisa]

Nice refresher and simplified overview of the Constitution that could be read in one sitting.

[Marilyn]

READ ASAP

[Angelina Harlow · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wanted to refresh myself on our constitution and this book was great. I loved the use of court cases to show how the Supreme Court interprets the Constitution.

[Marge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very simple to understand. Recommending it to my 4th grader grandson.

[LA · Rating 4 out of 5]

very well done. beautiful page design, good organization, factually correct.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is too advanced for K but is an excellent reference. It is out of date though due to the recent civil liberties that the Supreme Court destroyed in 2022. Recommended.