What are unalienable rights? Who are the 13 original colonies? What makes the Declaration of Independence so important? Find out in simple language what this historical document rally means to you and America. Controlled vocabulary, word bubble explanations, timelines, and primary source documents offer a clear understanding about the topic. In addition to a glossary there is a humorous Translation Guide for words like "redress--No, we're not talking about putting your clothes on again..." Table of contents, Internet Sites and an index are also provided.-- "Teacher Librarian" Students can be turned off to history by trying to tackle documents written in somewhat archaic and lofty language. Leavitt takes the Declaration of Independence and "translates" each section into language that modern, younger students can relate to. Making such an important document understandable is good not only for younger students, but also for reluctant readers. Colorful layout and historic pictures are another factor that will make this book appealing. While most of the information is well done, I was disappointed that the author chose to narrow down the colonists' grievances to the top five. At the very least there should have been an appendix with all the complaints listed. Not reviewed but other historical documents covered in the Kids Translations series are the Bill of Rights, the Gettysburg Address, the Pledge of Allegiance and the Star-Spangled Banner. 2008 Young Adult Top Forty Nonfiction Title-- "Pennsylvania School Librarians Association" This series takes important documents from U.S. History and provides detailed information to explain their meanings in user-friendly terms. The details of the documents are graphically represented along with "translation balloons." Each page contains brief definitions which are repeated in the glossary. While maintaining thoughtful, informative structure these books will require specific instruction to provide the greatest learning benefits. Students need lessons to read for information and, once provided, these books communicate accurate, accessible information about important documents. The artwork and photography provides additional learning opportunities, though easily accessible citations are missing in these otherwise sound nonfiction texts. Overall, the information is clear and meaningful. This series would support U.S, history, language arts, and civics curricular materials. Glossary. Index. Recommended. Lisa Hunt, Library Media Specialist, Apple Creek Elementary, Moore, Oklahoma-- "Library Media Connection" Amie Jane Leavitt is an accomplished author and photographer who loves to travel the globe in search of interesting story ideas and beautiful places to capture in photos. Amie has written nearly 50 books for children. She graduated from Brigham Young University as an education major and has since taught all subjects and grade levels in both private and public schools. She also has contributed to online and print media, and has worked as a consultant, writer, and editor for numerous educational publishing and assessment companies.