Books published by publisher Luce Press

Lobbyists have a lot of political power, and they're often in the news. However, the role of lobbyists is not a focus of many social studies or civics classes, so students don't often get a full picture of who these people are and how they influence policies that affect Americans' daily lives. Readers are invited to learn more about lobbyists as they explore informative text on this important political topic. Full-color photographs and sidebars enhance the reading experience, and discussion questions help readers sharpen their critical-thinking skills as they closely examine different points of view about lobbyists.

Although the U.S. Constitution set up a system of checks and balances, the president can sometimes act without the approval of Congress. When the president issues an executive order, they act on their own to manage the federal government, and this can affect many parts of life in the United States-from immigration policies to the military. How much power does the president actually have? Readers explore the answer to this question as they learn about the history of executive orders. Sidebars and discussion questions are included to encourage readers to think critically about this essential current events topic.

How secretive do Secret Service agents have to be? Do they protect other people besides the president? What kind of training do you need to become a Secret Service agent? These are important questions to ask if someone is interested in a career with the Secret Service, and the answers are waiting to be discovered in this fun and fact-filled reading experience. As readers explore exiting main text, sidebars, fact boxes, and graphic organizers, they learn about how a person becomes a Secret Service agent and what their day-to-day life is like in this dangerous line of work.

In 2011, Michelle Obama said, "There are still many causes worth sacrificing for, so much history yet to be made." Since leaving the White House, she has continued to live by those words. Readers explore the most current examples of her activism, but they also take a look into her past to see how her impressive educational and professional background made her a unique and historic First Lady. Detailed sidebars, vibrant photographs, and annotated quotes allow readers to trace her journey from her childhood in Chicago to her time in the White House and the release of her highly-anticipated memoir.

Technology has done a lot of good, connecting individuals and ideas. However, technological devices and social media platforms also have the potential to be harmful when they are not used in moderation. When the use of personal digital devices starts interfering with a person's daily life, it becomes a problem. Readers explore the ways in which some people can develop addictive digital habits and whether or not technology hinders their ability to live a healthy lifestyle. Additional information is presented through charts, sidebars, and annotated quotes, and discussion questions prompt readers to consider their own digital behaviors.

Just as people are shaped by the time and place they come from, so is music. Readers are invited to explore music that was born from Latin America and to trace its rise to a position of global popularity. They learn about the different instruments used in music styles such as Cuban and Caribbean and how this music influences the music of other cultures. Also featured is an extensive list of recommended Latin music albums, vibrant photographs of Latin music stars such as Gloria Estefan and Daddy Yankee, and annotated quotes from writers and musicians.

The U.S. Army Special Forces is an elite group of soldiers whose work is often classified. Although their missions are often secretive, their heroism is widely known, and readers are sure to be captivated by this inside look at what the Special Forces do and how someone can join their ranks. Detailed sidebars, eye-catching fact boxes, and helpful graphic organizers support the informative main text to present a comprehensive picture of Special Forces soldiers. Featuring full-color photographs of these heroes in action, this thrilling reading experience is designed to inspire young people who are interested in a military career.

What do boy bands from the 1990s have in common with the Beatles? Why are some pop artists, such as Justin Timberlake, considered controversial? Readers will discover these answers and the stories behind beloved artists from the Beach Boys to Lady Gaga through fun and fact-filled text about the roots of pop music and how it has spread around the world. Readers will gain a deeper appreciation for their favorite artists and the pop stars who came before them as they explore a discography of important albums, full-color photographs, annotated quotes from artists and journalists, and fascinating sidebars.

Hip-hop culture has shaped many facets of popular culture, including the worlds of music, politics, and business. The hip-hop movement began with New York City residents with few resources and has now turned into a billion-dollar worldwide industry. Readers will learn about the four elements of hip-hop: rapping (MCing), disc jockeying (DJing), graffiti art, and B-boying (break dancing). They'll learn how these foundational components evolved to construct what hip-hop is recognized as today. A list of essential hip-hop albums and annotated quotes from music critics and famous hip-hop artists are also included in this all-encompassing look at the history of hip-hop.

The Drug Enforcement Administration is on the front lines of the war on drugs in the United States. Readers explore the many ways DEA agents are working to fight this war, including the use of covert and undercover operations. This exciting career path is presented to readers through informative text, including helpful fact boxes and sidebars, as well as through detailed graphic organizers and full-color photographs of DEA agents in action. Readers interested in a career in law enforcement are sure to be inspired by this inside look at one of America's most important law enforcement agencies.

Many people know that Serena Williams has triumphed on the tennis court, challenging racist and sexist attitudes as she rose to the top of her sport. However, it may surprise readers to discover that she is also a humanitarian, an actress, and a fashion icon. With motivational quotes from Williams and a timeline of her milestones thus far, readers will enjoy learning more about this inspiring woman who is more than just a sports star.