9780802797933

Buy Now

Walker Childrens

On sale:

July 2011

Price:

$16.99

Format:

Paperback

Size:

8.5 x 10 in

Pages:

240 pp

Ages:

12

Grades:

7-12


ISBN-13: 9780802797933

ISBN-10: 0802797938



Also Available

9780802797926

Hardcover


Americapedia

Taking the Dumb Out of Freedom

By Andisheh Nouraee, Daniel Ehrenhaft, and Jodi Lynn Anderson

Book Description

America for Dummies- with a spoonful of humor to make the information go down

Aimed at teens who want to know more about the day-to-day workings of the U.S. government, this unique blend of humor and information is a cross between a textbook and a satire.

A crash course for understanding critical events in America and the world, it touches upon a variety of topics-historical and current-and explains how they unfolded and why they are important in the political and governmental arenas. Funny and intelligent writing, very reminiscent of the Daily Show, provides insight into the American electoral system, the world economy, the role religion plays in world conflicts, and America's place in world. The final chapter provides information about how to get involved.

Authors will have a Web site dedicated to the book where information can be updated, teens can read more and find out ways to get involved, can join online discussions, and speak their minds about the issues.


“Will teens read this book from cover to cover? No. Should they be required to? Yes! There’s no doubt that readers—of any age—will come away from this sassy compendium knowing a lot (some, no doubt, would say too much) about our country’s history, form of government, decisions, and workings, for better or worse. Heavily and delightfully illustrated, this book also links to an interactive website, where the authors invite you to agree to disagree...”—Booklist, starred review

“This examination of the state of the union uses edgy humor to discuss pertinent matters in the worlds of politics, international relations, religion, and culture.. Despite the irreverent tone, discussions of such topics as the stem cell debate, global warming, and gerrymandering remind readers of the seriousness behind the issues.”—Publishers Weekly

“In this witty, irreverent romp through history, the authors attempt to give teens what The Daily Show and The Colbert Report have done for adults, but in this case provide an amusing way of engaging with America’s past. …readers will be drawn to this entertaining and informative read, which is packed with full-color photos and hilarious sidebars. Americapedia is a good choice for fans of Adam Selzer’s The Smart Aleck’s Guide to American History (Delacorte, 2009).” —School Library Journal

“A broader range of topics is covered, but the scope is similar to Jon Stewart’s America. Written for novices of any age or those who would like a refresher course, concepts are simplified and understandable. Those struggling to grasp current events might find this helpful as well… This book is worth purchasing to flip through and read sporadically.” —VOYA

“Teens who have already latched on to The Daily Show and The Onion will settle right into their [Anderson et al.] brand of sniping satire..”—Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books