Lawrence Baum 
Supreme Court [PDF ebook] 

In The Supreme Court, Lawrence Baum provides a brief yet comprehensive introduction to the U.S. Supreme Court, one that is balanced and illuminating. In successive chapters, the book examines each major aspect of the Court: the selection, backgrounds, and departures of justices; the creation of the Court’s agenda; the decision-making process and the factors that shape the Court’s decisions; the substance of the Court’s policies; and the Court’s impact on government and American society. Describing the Court’s personalities and procedures, and delving deeply to explain the actions of the Court and the behavior of justices, Baum shows students the Court’s complexity and reach. Tables and figures, plus a lively photo program, make this one of the most engaging books available. It is simply the standard.