Customer Reviews

Thanks and Have Fun Running the Country: Kids' Letters to President Obama (Mcsweeneys)

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This book, above all, (above being funny or cute or heartrending, which it most certainly is, often within a page, within a sentence) is about optimism. The letters are teeming with it. Unbounded, undiluted, genuine optism. The kids ask the President for help, (for their family, for their school, for the world) give detailed advice on how he should best execute the helping, and they truly believe he will listen. Then, of course, they talk about their favorite snack, or tell on their classmates.

The organization (called 826 National) that collected and benefits from the proceeds of this book is a group of tutoring and writing centers all over the country. More than just containing optimism, Thanks and Have Fun Running the Country inspires it.

I purchased this book so my children could connect with how other children were feeling about our president and as a conversation starter on important issues - which it does well. Well, it's hilarious. Read this in the commercials during Jon Stewart. Some of the children are completely serious - and very insightful. Other letters are concise and what you would expect. However, there are some real gems - "buy donuts, eat donuts" - that make this a book to leave out with on the coffee table. And, yes, it is amazing to see how many children were touched by this election.

This collection of letters is perfectly timed. After the 24 hour news channels have pumped us up with flag waving graphics and pundits chiming in on the historic nature of this inauguration, this book is a perfect tonic. The students' letters to Obama are simple but effective. Nothing is as persuasive as the truth: "Whatever happened to McCain?", "Obama - The Best Precedent," and "You are just like a big me." The authors (all associated with various 826 non-profit tutoring centers) are serious, inquisitive, personal, and often very, very funny. These kids have created a great time capsule of the enthusiasm found lately with the young and old.

This book shows just how far Obama's message of hope has spread- all the way through to those non-voting 18 and under. And, as we're told, their hope is not just the "mirror reflections of (these kids') parents"; their thoughts and words of wisdom are truly their own. Buying this book just might be the perfect way to not only commemorate Obama's 2008 victory, but to also continue giving kids a voice.

This book just slays me. It's hysterical ("I think you could have won even without Mr. McCain's help") and heartbreaking ("My neighbors think that I am just another Latino that is going to ruin her life"). It's not the least bit precious or cutesy -- just honest and funny and an unbelievably enjoyable read. I couldn't get enough.

Jory John's collection of letters written by youngsters being tutored for free at 826 National (non-profit) centers across the U.S. is priceless for their sincerity and selflessness. Following are some examples - some from letters reproduced in their original handwriting in the book.

Examples of wanting to help - volunteering to help "clean up the world," suggestions on first things to do - "Meet with your helpers. Get a puppy." "If I were your helper when you move in, I could move everything!"

Sample requests - "Can you stop pollution?" "One thing you could do is fix the economy. The price (at Starbucks) raised (sic) 31 cents for no reason. So you should probably tray to change things like that from happening." "Could you help my family get housecleaning jobs?"

Pledges of support - "I trust you!" "I wanted to tell you that I am arabic (sic) and I heard you were half way arabic (sic)."

What they would do, if president - "If I were president, I would help all nations, even Hawaii." "As president, I would move into the White House and get some people to help me with my homework." I learn in school every day, but people don't listen, like David." I would give the poor people more money so they don't have to look for food in the trash can."

And finally, - "I wish I was your long lost son."

After reading a friend's copy, I bought this book as a gift for my parents, who worked hard canvassing and driving people to the polls in Ohio. This book is funny and honest the way only kids can be funny and honest--these letters must be among the most creative advice our newest President has received! I especially liked one young writer's solution for the economic crisis, along with the idea that "paper would not come from trees, but hardened glue."

In times as complicated as ours, it's refreshing to see things from a child's perspective. This book is a collection of letters written shortly after the 2008 election, addressed to the new president. In their letters, children as young as five offer their new leader advice, ask him questions, and beg for his help. At times heartbreaking and at times hilarious, this book is a simple reminder of the themes that make us Americans and the children on whom we must focus our attention and aid.

The kids' letters to President Obama make for a fun little book. And even better that the profits go to a good cause.

My son and I really like this book. It has got us to talk about politics in a kid friendly way, and has given me insight on kids point of views. Some of the letters are funny, some are a bit sad but they spark conversation with your children and that's good. He is bringing it to his classroom to share with the other kids. I think it would be great to get kids thinking about our government, and the role of president.