FICTION

Vote for Our Future!

Random/Schwartz & Wade Bks. Feb. 2020. 40p. Tr $17.99. ISBN 9781984892805.
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K-Gr 3–Stanton Elementary closes on Election Day in November to serve the community not just as a school, but as a polling station for voters. The students decide to take action. They learn about the election process in an effort to spread the word about the importance of voting to those who actually have the power to vote—namely, the adults in their lives. From the author of A Poem in Your Pocket, this book is a motivational call to action. Avoiding divisive partisan rhetoric, McNamara instead addresses the many reasons people give for not voting. For instance, when one student approaches a woman about voting, the woman replies that she does not like waiting in line. The student replies that if she can wait in line for coffee or for a movie, she can wait in line to vote. It is also mentioned that voting early or by mail is a possibility. Information on how to access voting and voter registration information is prevalent throughout as the students research in the library and visit their local election office. At the end is a list of Congressional Acts that demonstrate the rights that have been awarded to Americans throughout history, offering inspiration for how voices can collectively make a difference.
VERDICT This entertaining and engaging story has a powerful and timely message. The children sum it up best by stating, “Kids have to live with adults’ choices,” which makes voting a difficult task to ignore.

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