http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wamc/local-wamc-759881.mp3
Albany, NY – SEE HOW THEY RUN: CAMPAIGN DREAMS, ELECTION SCHEMES, AND THE RACE TO THE WHITE HOUSE -
Everyone's talking about the presidential election. You see it on TV. Discuss it in school. It's everywhere. Teachers and parents often look for help explaining to students and children about the country's most important decision making process. Though democracy is serious business, it helps if kids can laugh and learn at the same time.
That's where Susan Goodman's new book enters the picture. Titled, See How They Run: Campaign Dreams, Election Schemes, and the Race to the White House , it's timed perfectly for this important election.
Goodman teaches creative writing at Lesley College in Cambridge, Massachusetts. She's written numerous other children's books and magazine series, and has received dozens of awards and critical acclaim.
TBOOK spoke with her recently about this year's elections and her book.
Glenn Busby reports. (12:18)
**(Attention Program Directors and Listeners. For more information about this book, the website mentioned during the story, and at the conclusion of the above segment is: www.seehowtheyrun.com.)**
ESSAY
THE FIRST AMENDMENT: THE NEED FOR A CIVICS LESSON -
Dr. Helen Desfosses is an Associate Professor of Public Administration and Policy at the State University of New York at Albany, in the state capital. Dr. Desfosses has a long record of public service. She was elected President of the Albany Common Council in the late 90's, and served two four-year terms. She's the author of many books and articles on national and international policy issues. Because of her extensive background, Desfosses talks with TBOOK about the First Amendment, the Bill of Rights, and the need for more civics education.
Dr. Helen DesFosses. (4:33)
COMMENTARY
OUR YOUNG NEED CHANCES TO LEARN HOW DEMOCRACY WORKS -
Lee Hamilton is Director of The Center on Congress at Indiana University, in association with the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Schools. Hamilton was a member of the House of Representatives for 34 years. As a former lawmaker, he guest comments that Our Young Need Chances to Learn How Democracy Works.
Lee Hamilton comments. (1:22)