How the U.S. Government Works

by Syl Sobel

A fine classroom supplement and a solid information source for kids writing social studies reports, this book explains the federal system as it works today, more than two hundred years after the framers of the Constitution brought it into existence. Covered here are the Legislative body, composed of Senate and House Representatives, the Executive branch, headed by the President and consisting of Cabinet members and their agencies, and the Judicial branch, headed by the U.S. Supreme Court, and extending to federal courts throughout the nation. Young readers learn how officials are elected or appointed and how government agencies work for the people's benefit. A complex process is explained in interesting terms that young readers can comprehend.

Genres: Government, Nonfiction, Picture Books, Childrens, American History

48 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 1999

Reviews

[Laura Robb · Rating 2 out of 5]

Yes, I read a book written for children and learned about our government.

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really brief review on how US govt is set up, which I really needed.

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is for the revised edition coming out June 2025:

Syl Sobel’s “How the U.S. Government Works: A Kid’s Guide to Civics” is an excellent starting place to learn about the three branches of government. The book walks kids through each branch and its overarching tasks to make the country run. It concludes with recommendations for how to get involved by actively participating in our democracy.

This important and non-partisan book walks young people through complex constitutional principles to better understand U.S. democracy. Sobel is diligent about sticking to the constitution and providing examples that kids can understand. In our current polarized political environment, “How the U.S. Government Works: A Kid’s Guide to Civics” provides a quality introduction regardless of political affiliation. A glossary and resource guide are available at the end of the book.

This book is great for kids of all ages who want to learn about how the U.S. government works.

I received an advance review copy for free from Sourcebooks Kids, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Shan · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know, I really wish I had this book when I was younger, say 3rd grade. I think that this book makes such a good foundation of government knowledge for kids, and this should really be required reading. For kids that don't know a lot about the government, this book is great to quickly help them get caught up with what others might mention like it's common knowledge (note: once you're older it's common knowledge but in gradeschool not so much). More on the actual content though: everything is explained in simple terms, and the orders of various processes are written so well. Additionally, the glossary in the back of the book provides additional definitions for any terms that readers might still be confused about. Really everything about this book is perfect and is highly informative and easy-to-understand. Bravo!!

[Jill Weiner · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a very short, very basic book. We read it for family book club and my 2nd grader was the only one who learned anything. You'll get the same information watching a School House Rock video. So it's a good resource for lower elementary, but older readers will probably want to look for something else.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very basic but a good explanation of the branches of government.

[PK · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s great for young and lower level readers.

[Janice · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good introduction how the three branches work. Although not as much fun as Schoolhouse Rock (sigh).

Best for 4th grade on up but will use it with my mixed age classroom because important.

[Guinevere · Rating 3 out of 5]

They actually didn't mention communism at all. They didn't try to explain other ways governments can work.