Who's in Charge of New York State?: A Kid's Guide to the State Government

by Jane Rosenfeld, Sanié Bokhari (Illustrator)

One curious kid. Big questions. Real answers about New York State Government.
Who is in charge of New York State?
When election flyers arrive in the mailbox, one curious kid starts asking questions. What does a Governor do? Who makes the laws? How are decisions made for so many people?
With help from Mom and real-life school comparisons, this story explains in a clear and engaging way how New York State Government works.
From learning about the Governor to the Legislature to the courts, young readers will understand how each role matters and how people help shape their community.

40 pages, Hardcover

Published August 18, 2026

About the author

Jane Rosenfeld is an elementary school teacher and a born-and-raised New Yorker. She is passionate about helping students understand how their world works, and she strives to make big ideas, like how Government works, feel clear, relatable, and meaningful.
Jane believes that when children engage with these ideas early on, they begin to see themselves as active participants in their communities. She is committed to helping students feel confident, curious, and connected to the world around them.
Who's in Charge of New York State? was inspired by the questions her students ask every day and her belief in the power of young people to shape the future.

Reviews

[Jane Rosenfeld · Rating 5 out of 5]

I might be bias, but I think it’s pretty great!

[Shari · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author does an incredible job of comparing state government to school. She makes it approachable and recognizable for young children while respecting their intelligence and curiosity. The illustrations are stunning and she even includes a glossary of terms. This makes a wonderful gift for an elementary school child or for a classroom. Local government is so important and often gets overlooked and sidetracked. It’s never too early to become an informed citizen

[Raphaelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. Even for an adult, it was educational!

Thank you Jane - the world needs more teachers like you!