"With clear affection for the topic, Jarrow presents an engaging narrative. ...Captions provide students with needed details on key figures, events, and the printing process. Reproductions of contemporary illustrations and of pages from the New-York Weekly Journal appear throughout. The author's extensive research is evident from the lengthy notes and bibliography. ...An inspiring introduction to one of America's dearest values. An excellent supplement to history units." —School Library Journal
"The discussion begins with a good summary of Zenger's legal battle and why it matters, followed by a helpful, annotated list of participants and an intelligent discussion acknowledging the limits of research based on those printed records that have survived. Jarrow clearly organizes and discusses the events leading up to the Zenger trial, its influence on political publishing and discourse in the colonies before the Revolution, and its long-lasting effect on freedom of the press. ...This clear presentation of the case and its significance may attract browsers as well as report writers." —Booklist
"Jarrow's method matches the sophistication of her topic. A typical two-page spread includes a primary document and explanatory caption on the left-hand page, and the author's narrative on the right. But don't be fooled by all the primary documents into thinking the book is dry and scholarly. They record political shenanigans so outrageous that even Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert would sputter and gasp." —Natural History
"Appealing for both reluctant readers and readers with specialized interest in the subject." —Voice of Youth Advocates
"NA fascinating new account. ...Zenger, really just a pawn in the fight for freedom of press, makes a compelling hook to hold the reader's interest in this important segment of American history. ...Perfect for research in grades seven and up, the layout of this 100-page book is inviting. The narrative is restricted to right-hand pages, while left-hand pages contain period portraits, documents, and other illustration with notes that add interest and information. The layout is calm and dignified (in no way simulating a Web site!) and the cream colored paper gives an authentic aura to the well-placed sources." —The InGram (Ingram Library Services)
"Captivating. ...The Printer's Trial also has a unique format that adds to the integrity of the book and will appeal to reluctant and accomplished readers alike. ...The author's style of writing is easy-to-follow, very clear, and therefore, hooks the reader quickly." —Library Media Connection
"This little book has the merit of being well written, extraordinarily well edited and possessed of a time line, easy-to-read notes and a bibliography. ...Highly recommended for younger YAs and for any readers interested in American history." —KLIATT
"A detailed account. ...[Jarrow] has based her book on many primary sources from the time." —Children's Literature
"Woelfle does a terrific job introducing Rankin, beginning an attention-grabbing story. ... Readers' interest level will stay high throughout. ... The high standard of writing is matched by the book's format." —Booklist
