The University of Louisiana at Monroe’s John W. Sutherlin, an assistant professor in political science, has completed work on two recently published books designed to supplement introductory courses.

Sparknotes, a division of Barnes and Noble, has released both “Political Science” and “American Government,” two books intended to summarize entire courses using the most frequently adopted texts for that subject. Sutherlin was a writer and contributor to the yearlong effort that involved a select team of political and social science professors, also from Brandies University, Dalton State College and George Washington University.

Sutherlin noted, “When working with a team, especially one so competent, and for Barnes and Noble, with such high standards, it brings out the best in everyone. I enjoyed the experience.”

In addition to merely summarizing the subject matter and related textbooks, these two books include sample test questions, suggested readings and useful websites.