The objective of this textbook review was to evaluate the textbook's capacity for imparting the knowledge and skills necessary for democratic citizenship along with an enthusiasm for civic participation. A panel of scholars reviewed 18 U.S. government and civics textbooks on the basis of: (1) coverage, (2) engagement, (3) constitutional themes, and (4) relationships between the branches of government and among governments. The reviewers found that, in general, the government texts are encyclopedic in scope and impressive in comprehensiveness. However, a tendency to avoid controversial subjects made them lifeless descriptions of the origins, structures, and relationships of government. Second, most of the books are visually engaging, but not intellectually or emotionally compelling. Third, although the books include the text of the U.S. Constitution and explain basic constitutional principles, they fail to emphasize values and processes that have emerged from the document, such as due process and equal protection. Fourth, the interactions and strains among the components of government and between governments are not fully or creatively explained. Reviewers recommended, first, that the approach be changed from imparting information to preparing students to become concerned citizens. Second, controversial issues should be discussed fairly and explicitly. Third, students need to learn the value of public participation by becoming involved. (SM)