WE ARE FREE

A succinct introduction to some of the liberties guaranteed by the Bill of Rights.

The First Amendment enshrines freedom of expression. And no one appreciates that freedom more than those who read thoughtfully with young people—readers for whom this fresh entry on the subject will hold meaningful appeal. Noting that “free is a word that comes with great power,” Matulli explains that though laws change over time, the First Amendment has stood strong throughout America’s existence. She highlights the protections it grants, such as the freedom to “say what we want to say” and to “practice any religion or no religion.” A multigenerational community marches, a crush of journalists “report news, good or bad,” and a community repairing after a flood is “free to ask our government to help us.” Simply stated but never oversimplified, Matulli’s text smartly, swiftly pivots to the idea that these rights must not be taken for granted, showing countries (identified after the main text in an author’s note) in which religious rights are restricted, speech is censored, and the government controls the press. This work will inspire civic curiosity in even young children while reminding caregivers of rights worth fighting for and celebrating. Rodriguez’s political poster–style art powerfully captures diverse communities in action with bold, affecting overtones of red, white and blue.

An impressive distillation of an essential American virtue.