Political Parties of the United States (American Government in Action)

Grade 7-10?This thorough, logically organized, and clearly written book begins by describing the pomp and purpose of the 1992 Democratic National Convention held in New York City. The role of the keynote speakers, the setting of the platform, and even the media coverage are all mentioned. Kronenwetter then presents a historical overview of the birth and evolution of political parties as we know them, explaining how they work and why they are so powerful. He points out that there is no mention of them in the Constitution. He addresses the formation of party machines, corruption, and reform, and changing constituencies. The later chapters deal with the current status of political parties, their positions on key issues, their commonalities and internal factions, how they are supported, and how they fit into the process of government. The presentation concludes with a look at the role of third parties, historically as well as currently. Black-and-white photographs and cartoons break up the text. A welcome resource, particularly in this election season.?Sylvia V. Meisner, Allen Middle School, Greensboro, NC
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Gr. 6^-9. In this election year, Kronenwetter's perceptive look at political parties should come in handy. He does more than just give a history of political parties in the U.S. and describe how they work. He shows how parties have influenced every aspect of the country's political life and also describes the elaborate dance that Democrats and Republicans do to keep the country moving--and sometimes not. A chapter about third parties rounds out the treatment, but here the book slides mainly into a historical overview; it does not explore the far-reaching effects third-party movements might have on the Union. A crisp layout gives the book an inviting look, but the photos and historical engravings that illustrate it are, for the most part, uninspiring. Glossary; chapter notes; further reading Ilene Cooper