From School Library Journal
Grade 5 Up-Once again, Freedman demonstrates his masterful ability to focus on those aspects of a historical event, figure, or, in this case, document, that will intrigue readers and give history a sense of immediacy. He prefaces his thorough examination of the Bill of Rights with some engaging questions: Can schoolchildren be required to salute the American flag and recite the Pledge of Allegiance? Can a rap group be prosecuted for using "obscene" lyrics? Does the Constitution allow school officials to use physical punishment? Freedman briefly discusses the evolution of the Constitution and Bill of Rights from ideas first set forth in the Magna Carta and then examines the first 10 amendments in individual chapters packed with potential scenarios or real-life examples of infringements of Constitutional rights. Milton Meltzer's The Bill of Rights (HarperCollins, 1990), which is similar in scope, was written before the privacy issues raised by the advent of the Internet, new technological spying capabilities, the question of whether homeland security can be attained without sacrificing Sixth Amendment protections, and other issues that are considered here. The author describes and quotes from Supreme Court cases, which are listed in an index giving both print and online sources for the full texts of the decisions. Black-and-white photos and reproductions appear throughout. This excellent study of the continually evolving meaning and interpretation of the Bill of Rights is a fine companion volume to Freedman's Give Me Liberty! (Holiday, 2000) and is an essential purchase for all libraries.Ginny Gustin, Sonoma County Library System, Santa Rosa, CACopyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist
*Starred Review* Gr. 5-10. Freedman is at his best in this compelling, timely discussion of the Constitution and civil liberties. In his signature clear, conversational prose, he talks about the history of the Bill of Rights, from the time it was first voted on two centuries ago through the ongoing struggle to keep people free. What does that word people mean? For a long time, the term didn't include African Americans, Native Americans, or women. Freedman devotes a chapter to each amendment, covering its origin, various interpretations, landmark Supreme Court cases, and, always, the contemporary scene, including the conflicts now raging about national security and individual freedom in the aftermath of 9/11. He cites many cases involving young people and he is careful to discuss many sides of controversial topics such as abortion and capital punishment. The book design is beautiful, with thick paper, lots of white space, historical prints (including an archival print of the Bill of Rights), and lots of photos. This is a must for classroom discussion and personal interest, and the source notes and annotated bibliography at the back, as spaciously laid out as the text, will help readers find out more. Hazel Rochman
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

ANNOTATION

Describes the origins, applications of, and challenges to the ten amendments to the United States Constitution that comprise the Bill of Rights.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

When the Delegates to the Constitutional Convention signed the Constitution, they knew it was not perfect. They were concerned their government might be too powerful and not respect the rights of its citizens. So at the first session of the United States Congress in 1789, they voted on a set of ten amendments, aimed to preserve and protect the rights and liberties of all citizens. These ten amendments comprise the Bill of Rights. As our country has grown, American citizens have continued to rely on this landmark document as a means to defend the liberties of all, across boundaries of race and gender, age and class, religion and ethics. Focusing on examples of ordinary citizens who have had the courage to challenge their government and raise their voices at injustice, Russell Freedman's compelling text is essential reading for every American.

FROM THE CRITICS

Publishers Weekly

Several books with American themes are making appearances this fall. In Defense of Liberty: The Story of America's Bill of Rights by Russell Freedman begins with the history of the document and its inspiration, and traces the ways in which these first 10 amendments to the Constitution have been applied to protect the liberties of ordinary citizens. From battles over the separation of church and state to stormy debates over gun control and the right to bear arms, the book demonstrates how the groundbreaking document led to advances in human rights, even as it continues to be a magnet for controversy. Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.

Children's Literature - Sharon Salluzzo

The reader is hooked right from the start, where Freedman presents eight interesting questions that have been brought before the Supreme Court. In the discussion of each of the first ten amendments to the U. S. Constitution, historical information provides the reasoning for the amendment. Landmark cases are discussed, and cases involving children and teens are presented. These of course heighten the interest for young adults who can see how they are affected by the court's rulings. Clear, succinct and always interesting, this provides a fine introduction to the Bill of Rights. Black and white photos of justices and the parties involved in the cases as well as reproductions of historical paintings and objects are included. The Bill of Rights, source notes for Freedman's text, an index of Supreme Court cases that are cited, an annotated bibliography and an index will help readers gain information and insight. They provide the tools for further study. A must for all libraries. 2003, Holiday House,

VOYA - Sherrie Williams

Freedman brings vividly to life the historical basis and current relevance of the Bill of Rights. The actual process of writing the Bill of Rights is thoroughly described as are its historic precursors such as the Magna Carta and the English Bill of Rights. Each amendment is discussed in great detail, with some encompassing several chapters. They are clearly explained, juxtaposing the original text with a paraphrasing in current language. Freedman offers historical as well as current scenarios of the need for each amendment. There are detailed discussions of court cases that have reinterpreted the document, with an emphasis on cases related to children and young adults adding relevance for the young reader. This profusely illustrated and annotated book stresses the Bill of Rights' current relevance, leaving far behind any notion of it as a musty old document. It is an excellent companion to Freedman's Give Me Liberty: The Story of the Declaration of Independence (Holiday House, 2002/VOYA April 2001). Although many students might be unlikely to choose this resource independently, once they have started to read it, the relevance of the Bill of Rights to current issues should greatly increase the books' appeal. Useful for students interested in a variety of topics such as history, civil liberties, and Supreme Court decisions, it would be an excellent catalyst for class discussion on a variety of current topics. This book is highly recommended for all libraries serving young adults. VOYA Codes: 4Q 3P M J S (Better than most, marred only by occasional lapses; Will appeal with pushing; Middle School, defined as grades 6 to 8; Junior High, defined as grades 7 to 9; Senior High, defined asgrades 10 to 12). 2003, Holiday House, 208p.; Index. Illus. Photos. Biblio. Source Notes., Ages 11 to 18.

School Library Journal

Gr 5 Up-An amendment-by-amendment history of the evolution of America's civil liberties. Numerous early and modern examples of challenges to individual rights and court reversals, discussions of where the law is still unclear, and imagined scenarios lend immediacy to this lively examination. Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.

Kirkus Reviews