Introduces children to voting in the United States, discussing its history, how it has evolved to include all people, and its importance in the United States government.
After his son helps him learn to write his name, Samuel T. Blow goes to the courthouse in his Southern town to cast his ballot on the first election day ever on which African-Americans were allowed to vote.
Using a campaign for mayor as an example, shows the steps involved in an election, from the candidate's speeches and rallies, to the voting booth where every vote counts, to the announcement of the winner.
Examines the continuing problems with the electoral system in America, and maintains that politicians from both parties control the process through such things as location of election district boundaries, the number of voting booths at urban polling places, and English-only ballots.
Explains the importance of voting and political action to teenagers; tells young people how to make their voices heard even before they are old enough to vote; and features the stories of teens who have become involved in issues of importance to themselves and their communities.
