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by Elizabeth Rusch (Author)
A 2021 YALSA EXCELLENCE IN NONFICTION FINALIST America is the greatest democracy in the world . . . isn't it? Author Elizabeth Rusch examines some of the more problematic aspects of our government but, more importantly, offers ways for young people to fix them.
The political landscape has never been so tumultuous: issues with the electoral college, gerrymandering, voter suppression, and a lack of representation in the polls and in our leadership have led to Americans of all ages asking, How did we get here? The power to change lies with the citizens of this great country--especially teens! Rather than pointing fingers at people and political parties, You Call This Democracy? looks at flaws in the system--and offers a real way out of the mess we are in. Each chapter breaks down a different problem plaguing American democracy, exploring how it's undemocratic, offering possible solutions (with examples of real-life teens who have already started working toward them), and suggesting ways to effect change--starting NOW!Author Biography
Liz Rusch lives in Portland, Oregon, with her husband, two terrific kids, and one very funny, quirky dog named Reba. She has written more than one hundred magazine articles and more than a dozen acclaimed children's books, including picture books, middle grade books, fiction, nonfiction, and even a graphic novel. Liz has a background in economics and public policy. She once worked in the United States Senate as a staffer on the U.S. Senate Education and Labor Committee. There she advised members on education issues; drafted legislation; met with nonprofits, interest groups and lobbyists; and wrote talking points, speeches and press releases. The experience gave her an inside view into how the U.S. government really works.
