Grace for President by Kelly DiPucchio

Book Jacket

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.  So Grace decides the only thing to do is to concentrate on being the best person.

In this timely story, author Kelly DiPucchio not only gives readers a fun introduction to the American electoral system but also teaches them the value of hard work, courage, and independent thought--and offers an inspiring example of how to choose our leaders.

Review

The second paragraph of the book jacket pretty much says what I wanted to say.  This book is completely charming, with fantastic pictures highlighting the events the book describes.  Grace is a fantastic girl who I would totally vote into presidency.  When she promises to address the bullying problem, she joins the school safety squad.  When she promises no more fish stick tacos, she volunteers to work in the cafeteria. 

The happy outcome of the school's mock election supports the idea that voting someone into office means more than just voting for the more popular contestant; it means voting for someone who will get the job done. 

I also loved how DiPucchio included historical and political facts.  The students vote after being assigned a state to represent, thereby explaining the electoral college in action.  The deciding vote goes to Wyoming, which I assume is a nod to the fact that it was the first state to allow women to vote. 

This book is all around awesome, right down to the perfect hopeful last picture.

Five out of five future female presidents.

Release Date:  February 2008

Reading Level:  All Ages
Where In Dunlap Public Library's Collection:  MONARCH