Rock, Paper, Veto!
A fun, illustrated guide to how the three branches of the U.S. government work. Made for kids about 10 to 11, with a board game, activities, a quiz and a glossary.
- 36 illustrated pages
- Ages 10–11
- Nonpartisan
Fun on purpose
A tree named Trey is the tour guide, and a made-up bill called the Longer Recess Act travels through all three branches. There's a board game and a comic along the way.
Big words made simple
Every big word is explained in plain language the first time it shows up. All 64 are collected in a glossary at the back.
Checked and nonpartisan
Every fact was checked against official sources, such as the Constitution and the websites of Congress, the federal courts and the White House. The book names no political parties and no current officeholders.
Made to print
36 US Letter pages that look great on a screen and print well at home. The activity pages are black and white, and an answer key is in the back.
What's inside
Meet Trey
Your tour guide, a tree with a scroll, a stamp and a gavel.
Why We Have Rules
Rules, the Constitution, and how amendments work.
The Three Branches
Who makes the laws, who carries them out, and who decides what they mean.
The Legislative Branch
The House and the Senate, plus a board game that follows a bill from an idea all the way to the President's desk.
The Executive Branch
The President, the Vice President, the Cabinet, and what happens when a bill is signed or vetoed.
The Judicial Branch
The court ladder, the nine justices, and what “unconstitutional” means.
Checks and Balances
Rock, paper, scissors, a map of who can check whom, and a comic about the Longer Recess Act's wild ride.
Activities
Which Branch?, a word search, a matching game and a mini quiz.
Glossary, answer key and a page for grown-ups
64 Big Words, every answer, questions to talk about together, and the full list of sources.
Get Rock, Paper, Veto!
36 illustrated pages for kids about 10 to 11. Instant PDF download.
Get the e-book · $5.99What age is it for?
Kids about 10 to 11 (roughly 4th and 5th grade). Younger kids can enjoy it with a grown-up, and the last page has tips and discussion questions for parents and teachers.
What do I get?
A 36-page PDF sized for US Letter paper. It reads well on a tablet or computer and prints well at home. Your download link arrives in your email receipt right after you buy.
Can I print it for my classroom?
Yes. You may print copies for your own household or for one classroom. Please don't share, post or resell the PDF file.
Is it political?
No. It explains how the government works, not who to vote for. It names no political parties and no current officeholders, so it isn't tied to any one election or politician.
How do you make sure it's accurate?
Every fact was checked against official sources, such as the Constitution and the websites of Congress, the federal courts and the White House. The sources are listed on the last page, and you can click any of them in the PDF. Numbers that change over time, like veto counts, are the latest official figures as of October 2026. Spot something that has changed? Email contact@politigeist.com.