3^rd Grade and Up

“Where are the girls?”

When Grace’s teacher reveals that the United States has never had a female president, Grace decides to be the first. And she immediately starts off her political career as a candidate in the school’s mock election. But soon, she realizes that she has entered a tough race. Her popular opponent claims to be the best man for the job – and seems to have captured all the male votes – while Grace concentrates on being the best person for the job.

A great introduction to the American electoral system, how democracy works and the importance of a strong campaign.

Some subjects, like electoral votes and representatives, might go over kids heads. It certainly went over my head the first time I read it. After reading this story and the more thorough description in the Author’s Note a second time, I now have a better understanding on how it all works.

The one point I hope gets across is that an election should not be a popularity contest. While Grace’s opponent is confident that his popularity will win him the election, Grace works hard, listened to the voters and dedicates her time to helping her school.

An election is not about voting for someone who makes unrealistic promises that they can’t deliver on, it’s about voting for the best person for the job.

This weeks’ Weird but True Facts about 10 Different Presidents

George Washington’s favorite food was ice cream. In just one summer, George Washington spent what would be about $5,000 in today’s money on ice cream.

Thomas Jefferson served macaroni and cheese at a state dinner.

Andrew Jackson’s pet parrot, Poll, cursed at his funeral and had to be removed from the service.

President Willian Henry Harrison’s inaugural address lasted longer than the movie Finding Nemo.

During his lifetime, President John Tyler had 15 children, more than any other president.

Abraham Lincoln was given two kittens when he became president. He fed one during an official dinner, using a gold fork.

James Garfield could write Latin with one hand and Greek with the other at the same time.

When President Herbert Hoover and his wife wanted to speak privately to each other, they spoke Mandarin Chinese.

President Harry S. Truman’s middle name was “S”. (His parents couldn’t decide on a full name)

Barack Obama appeared in a 2009 Spider-Man comic book.