Welcome to Facts Behind the Fiction
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are fiction, but there are LOTS of facts about Congress, the US Capitol, and civics in general packed in every chapter and every episode. Read here for FACTS BEHIND THE FICTION that you can use in your classroom.
Thanksgiving Recess
The Mendoza family celebrates Thanksgiving back in California, but Congressman Mendoza is working.
What’s a Whip?
Whips may have the most difficult job in Congress: keeping track of members and their votes.
The Scariest Room in the Capitol
During the day, it's crowded with tour groups. At night, it's a bit spooky. They call it the Crypt.
Battle of the DC Christmas Trees
There are two big Christmas Tree ceremonies in DC. Guess which one is the oldest?
Let Kids Vote!
Young people have been lobbying for years for the right to vote. Should 16-year-olds be able to vote? 14-year-olds? Fina Mendoza thinks 10-year-olds are mature enough to vote. What do you think?
Episode 14: Who’s the Boss of Congress?
Who’s the boss of Congress? What’s their power?
It all comes down to money.