Bowman/Kearney's STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT: THE ESSENTIALS, FIFTH EDITION takes a positive look at state and local government. While acknowledging the legitimate concerns voiced by critics, it espouses, clearly, that government can be a force for good in society. Through engaging coverage of current events and an accessible writing style, the text fosters student interest and involvement in state and local politics, policy, and public service. For instructors who prefer a more streamlined text or for those who teach one-semester courses, this new edition of the Essentials version features limited focus on policy, and six fewer chapters than its full-length counterpart.