FICTION

Vote: The Theory, Practice, and Destructive Properties of Politics

144p. Random/WendyLamb. 2013. Tr $12.99. ISBN 978-0-385-74228-3; lib. ed. $15.99. ISBN 978-0-375-99053-3; ebook $10.99. ISBN 978-0-307-97452-5. LC 2012023059.
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Gr 5–8—Fourteen-year-old Kevin Spencer finds himself running for student-body president against handsome Cash Devine. He hadn't planned to, but now that he and Tina Zabinski, the world's best-smelling girl, have had their first date, he wants even more to impress her. If Cash wins, she may just realize that he is amazing and that Kevin is a dud. Unfortunately, Kevin's nemesis seems always to be a step ahead. A funny addition to the several books about Kevin, Vote is filled with lessons and commentary about today's political system, with subtle jibes that kids are not likely to notice. A good book for reluctant readers and fans of Paulsen's "Lawn Boy" (Random) series.—Terry Ann Lawler, Burton Barr Library, Phoenix, AZ
A fresh take on the student-election premise: Kevin joins the race not out of civic pride or to become popular, but because he wants to impress his new girlfriend. What’s more, Kevin recognizes that he may not be a remarkable candidate. Brief chapters and humorous plot twists make this a quick, entertaining read. Kevin’s unique perspective and self-aggrandizement are amusing: “I’m not the kind of guy who lets a few failures get him down. That’s another key component of a great political candidate: undauntability. If that isn’t a word, I’m going to pass a law and make it one, because that’s what this country in general, and this school in particular, needs more of: undauntability. It’s a word that will look great on a bumper sticker.” Features realistic family and friendship dynamics. For instance, although Kevin often fights with his older siblings, they both help him with his campaign.

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