Books with author John Micklos Jr.

"I refuse to be inducted into the armed forces…" That simple statement, made on April 28, 1967, changed Muhammad Ali from being simply the heavyweight boxing champion of the world to being a rebel, taking on the mighty United States government. His protest against serving in the Vietnam War had political, racial, and religious undertones, and it led to nationwide discussion of all of these issues. Ali's passion to speak his mind and stand up for his beliefs stood as a hallmark throughout a boxing career that spanned more than twenty years. Decades after his boxing career ended, he continued to tour the world promoting peace and spreading goodwill even as his own health deteriorated. Over the years, he truly earned the nickname he first bestowed upon himself way back in 1964 when he first won the heavyweight crown: "The Greatest."

Reviewing the Declaration of Independence and the Articles of the Confederation as well as the Constitution, this guide provides a comprehensive overview to the many challenges the founding fathers faced when taking a stand against and declaring its freedom from the world's greatest power, Great Britain, in order to become a nation in its own right.

Take a trip to the Southeast! Each page is filled with exciting facts about this part of the United States, including its history, rich culture, geography, major cities, and everyday life. Buckle up as you read about and see pictures of this part of our fascinating country. Includes Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia.

History remembers the leaders of the American Revolution—George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Hancock. But the war could not have been won without the unsung heroes—courageous women and children. Women served as nurses and spies. A few even fought in battle. Children supported the cause, too. Although the fighting age was supposed to be sixteen, many young men fought in battle. Women and children made great sacrifices to help America win its freedom.

“Elvis has left the building.” A record television audience of some 60 million people watched Elvis Presley on THE ED SULLIVAN SHOW the night of September 9, 1956. With his ground-breaking television performances and many number-one hits, that year saw the Elvis phenomenon grow to massive proportions. Girls went into hysterics over him and boys emulated his style. Adults feared the effect rock and roll, and Elvis in particular, had on their teenagers. Elvis became the world's biggest pop icon and changed the face of American pop culture. He became the King of Rock and Roll. Over the years, Elvis' career evolved from rock-and-roll rebel to movie star to ballad crooner to Las Vegas performer, experiencing several downfalls and comebacks along the way. Even after his death in 1977, his music, movies, and life continue to fascinate the public.

After pushing back the flight several times, the Challenger Space Shuttle was ready to launch. On January 28, 1986, the shuttle lifted off. Just 73 seconds into the flight, tragedy struck. Without warning, the Challenger exploded in front of stunned spectators, killing everyone on board. Readers will learn what caused this horrible disaster and the lasting effects to NASA and the space program.

And the contestant going home is . . . Jennifer Hudson! Standing on the AMERICAN IDOL stage, a shocked Hudson found out she had been voted off the famed singing competition. But unlike many IDOL contestants whose musical dreams end on that stage, Jennifer Hudson was just getting started. Her rapid rise to superstardom saw her win an Academy Award and a Grammy Award in only a few years. Author John Micklos, Jr., explores the life of this multi-talented music idol.

In the winter of 1776, the Americans looked defeated. But General George Washington did not give up. His troops made a daring move, crossing the Delaware River and winning two battles. The next winter, Washington’s soldiers were cold and starving at Valley Forge. How could poorly-equipped and untrained men crush the mighty British? Follow author John Micklos, Jr., as he explores two wild winters with Washington.

Winning the American Revolution was just the first step. After defeating Great Britain, the American colonies were united in name only. How would this independent nation be governed? During the summer of 1787, representatives went to Philadelphia to solve the problem. The result—the U.S. Constitution—created a new government, establishing the foundations of a free nation and setting a new course for history.