Declare Yourself

Publisher: Harper Collins Publishers (2008)
ISBN: 978-0-06-147332-6
324 pgs

Classification: YA Nonfiction
Genre: Politics, government
Age Level: 12+

Reader’s Annotation: More than 50 American celebrities encourage American youth to “speak, connect, act, vote” by sharing their stories of patriotism, first-time voting, and involvement in politics.

Summary: Declare Yourself is a collection of brief essays by prominent entertainers, writers, sports figures, and media personalities. Each contributor provides a reflection on his/her experience with voting and participating in a democratic society. The book also contains a timeline of voting rights in the United States, as well as an overview of American government. A list of service organizations and opportunities for activism provides readers with suggestions for involvement in their civic communities.

Notes: The premise of this book seems to be encouraging the youth vote in the 2008 presidential election, which may render the text irrelevant by the next big election year. Moreover, the celebrity contributors probably will not attract readers in four years. The book, then, may be best for younger teens not yet of voting age who are beginning to learn about American history. Organization Website: http://www.declareyourself.com/
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