The Best Guide to American Politics: Easily Accessible Information for a Richer, Fuller Life [Paperback]

Tom Waldman (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 9, 2000

Knowledge is Power. Learn how the system operates and make it work for you. Read on.

Don't just stand there! Do something! Your vote counts for more than you think. Chapter 1 explains everything you need to know about the voting process--who, what where when and why. Can you pass the Immigration and Naturalization Service Test? Go directly to chapter 4. It's the difference between being an American and being an outsider. How much does your one vote really mean, and what happens when you don't vote? Chapter 1 provides the facts you need to know. Want to join an advocacy group or succeed in local politics? Read chapter 3 and learn why "all politics is local." Whats the best way to work the system and make the federal government your ally? Chapter 5 will show you how to effectively reach any member of congress. It's all here in one amazingly comprehensive book: levels of government, capaign financing, the media, legislation, and how our fascinating political history still plays a vital role in shaping the future. Never feel powerless within the system again. Let The Best Guide To American Politics help you understand just how much of a difference you can make!

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

With all the how-to, self-help, and "Idiots/Dummies" guides now available, it shouldn't come as a surprise that there is finally one for those who wish to learn something about the American political system. Waldman, formerly an administrative assistant to Congressman Howard Berman (D-CA) and currently public information manager for the Federal Reserve Bank in Los Angeles, has written a very readable, accessible, and practical volume for the average citizen. While his treatment of how our government really works might seem simplistic to a professional political scientist, the basics are fundamentally sound. Waldman covers state and local governments, political parties, interest groups, and the media, among other things, and also includes valuable information about how to contact government officials, agencies, and members of Congress. Most impressive is that the material is presented in a positive way, urging readers to become more involved. While not exactly a primer on political activity, this book is a fine, inexpensive resource for any citizen.DThomas J. Baldino, Wilkes Univ., Wilkes-Barre, PA
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.

About the Author

Tom Waldman has been an administrative assistant/press secretary to a U.S. congressman since 1992. He resides in West Hills, California.

Product Details

• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: Renaissance Books; 1st edition (March 9, 2000)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1580630847
• ISBN-13: 978-1580630849
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 7.4 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.6 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,526,020 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

22 of 22 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Politics the easy way!, February 19, 2000

By 

Michael J Woznicki "Michael J Woznicki" (Holland, MA USA) - See all my reviews
(HALL OF FAME REVIEWER)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Best Guide to American Politics: Easily Accessible Information for a Richer, Fuller Life (Paperback)

The average American's knowledge of politics is usually what they read in the papers and what they see on television. For most American this is enough, but what if you want more? Where can you turn to find out how our system works? The best guide to American Politics may be just the book you need.

The book is broken down into 4 parts from how your vote matters to how we got the system we have. The author simplifies each and every topic into everyday words, leaving out the complex politic rhetoric. The book makes politics understandable and fun to learn.

You will encounter the political machine on all levels, from local to state to the federal. You'll see how PTA works, find out bills become law and have a deeper understanding of just what it takes to run a campaign and get elected.

The book is detailed, however the author makes you comfortable in the reading. I found this book to be well worth the time spent reading. For the first time there is a book on the political system that goes beyond the partisan politics most of us have become accustomed to - well done!

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The best guide I know of, May 15, 2005

By 

Joseph Scott - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Best Guide to American Politics: Easily Accessible Information for a Richer, Fuller Life (Paperback)

When I was first getting into American politics, I searched far and wide for a general introduction. I was looking for one that wasn't written from an obvious political bias, because I did not want to cloud my thinking. This book fit the bill perfectly.
It clearly describes how all of the major parts of the American government function. It recounts certain relevant historical events to help explain certain points.
It is obviously simplistic, and it is not meant as a guide to political theory. It is simply an objective look at how the government actually works today, for better or for worse.
It explains even the most well-known aspects of its subject, yet it manages not to sound condescending.
If you are fairly ignorant of how the American government works, or you just want a general reference or refresher in some areas, I would recommend this book.