Books with author Jason Porterfield

Frederick Douglass was one of the most pivotal figures in the abolitionist movement leading up to the Civil War and the end of slavery in the United States. Today, the self-taught author, speaker, publisher, and activist is revered as a pioneering African American civil rights leader. This engaging book for young readers follows the major events in Douglass's life, from his birth in slavery and escape to his involvement in the abolitionist movement and post, Civil War activist causes. Readers learn about his influence on later civil rights leaders and movements. Vocabulary and Quick Fact boxes present the reader with important terms and information.

With environmental issues such as global warming constantly in the news, this is a timely examination of how human activities impact Earth. With twenty graphic organizers spread over five chapters, this book presents a powerful documentation of how humankind's technological innovations in tapping Earth's resources have affected Earth's atmosphere and biosphere, as well as other species. It also looks at other concerns, such as species extinction and desertification.

Social alienation is a form of indirect bullying. In this penetrating narrative, teens learn about the effects of bullying, not only to the victim but also to the bully. They will learn how a sense of loneliness and frustration leave a victim vulnerable. Readers will also explore topics such as how bullies choose targets, how people who are socially isolated can develop a plan of defense, how to combat social alienation, what laws have been enacted to protect individuals from harassment, and which anti-bullying programs have led to success.

People use the World Wide Web for everything from paying bills and buying products and services to turning in work or school assignments and helping people stay in touch. This is the story of Tim Berners-Lee, the inventor of the Web, from his birth in London, England, to his physics studies at Queens College, Oxford, and his work as a software engineer at CERN in Geneva. He created the Web, specifications for URLs, HTTP, and HTML, and the first web browser. He also founded the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) at MIT in 1994 to develop international Web standards.

Work as an undercover gang investigator is not for everyone. This career guide is for those young people who feel they have the physical and mental toughness and resourcefulness to work in this most difficult of fields. In addition to explaining exactly what personality type is needed and what sorts of physical, emotional, and psychological skills are required, this guide also discusses the most effective pathways to a career in undercover law enforcement, the necessary coursework, two- and four-year degree programs, training, police work, and the networking necessary to break into the undercover ranks at the local, state, or federal level. This career resource meets Common Core standards for career preparedness and work readiness content.

The Third Amendment guarantees that soldiers cannot be quartered with U.S. citizens during times of peace. At the time of its passage, this amendment made a significant difference in the lives of American citizens. It formed a separation between Americas military and its civilians. Although seldom cited today in court cases, the Third Amendments impact has been long lasting, and has given rise to military bases all over the country. This book richly explores the amendment and its history. Fascinating sidebars and photographs support the text.

Until recently, piracy was a crime that few people expected to encounter in the modern world. Todays pirates pilot motorboats and carry assault rifles, and utilize modern technology in order to carry out raids. This book examines modern-day piracy in detail, delving into the social and economic motivators that have given rise to contemporary nautical crime. The engaging text covers the regions in which piracy is most prevalent, famous incidents, and the ways in which the international community has attempted to fight todays pillagers of the sea. Filled with gripping, full-color images of pirates being captured, receiving ransom, and being marched to trial, this book stands alone in giving young readers insight into this fascinating and troubling topic.

The election of President Barack Obama was a watershed moment in American politics. This book examines Obama’s historic presidential victory while also looking back at the U.S. Civil Rights Movement, the transformation of race relations in the United States, and the achievements of prominent African American politicians. It explores the events of the Obama’s life and examines the political realities that shaped him as a politician.