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What You Need to Know About Voting—and Why
“Now, more than ever, Americans are realizing that their votes count. Kim Wehle’s excellent guide tells you everything you need to know about the laws governing our greatest right and privilege. A must-read, especially in an election year.” —Norah O'Donnell, Anchor and Managing Editor, CBS Evening News
Want to change the world? The first step is to exercise your right to vote! In this step by step guide, you can learn everything you need to know.
In What You Need to Know About Voting—and Why, law professor and constitutional scholar Kimberly Wehle offers practical, useful advice on the mechanics of voting and an enlightening survey of its history and future.
What is a primary?How does the electoral college work?Who gets to cast a ballot and why?How do mail-in ballots work?How do I register?For new voters, would-be voters, young people and all of us looking ahead to the next election, What You Need to Know About Voting—and Why is a timely and informative guide, providing the background you need in order to make informed choices that will shape our shared destiny for decades to come.
Want to change the world? The first step is to exercise your right to vote! In this step by step guide, you can learn everything you need to know.
In What You Need to Know About Voting—and Why, law professor and constitutional scholar Kimberly Wehle offers practical, useful advice on the mechanics of voting and an enlightening survey of its history and future.
What is a primary?How does the electoral college work?Who gets to cast a ballot and why?How do mail-in ballots work?How do I register?For new voters, would-be voters, young people and all of us looking ahead to the next election, What You Need to Know About Voting—and Why is a timely and informative guide, providing the background you need in order to make informed choices that will shape our shared destiny for decades to come.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 16, 2020
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449 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
October 19, 2020
“It’s sometimes hard for Americans to fathom that not everyone on the planet enjoys the privilege of self government. If we want to keep that privilege, we need to exercise it... If voting didn’t matter much, foreign governments wouldn’t try to influence it. And if voting didn’t matter much, we wouldn’t see efforts in America to make it harder for certain people to vote. Your vote does matter.”
Kim Wehle’s book is one that I wish I’d had as a kid, and one that I believe should be given to every incoming freshman in America. It has discussion questions built in and kitcschy illustrations of ducks accompanying each chapter. Everyone should be so lucky to have this taught to them in school in such a straightforward way rather than, for example, getting to a point in one’s mid-to-late twenties without knowing how to change voter registration or how the deadlines and myriad restrictions vary by state. American politics shouldn’t exist behind this smokescreen that requires hours/days/weeks of research or listening closely to reruns of West Wing (which I love to do but that’s beside the point). If public schools get federal funding, it should be a requirement that everyone gets access to an education that emphasizes and fosters civic engagement in its young people. Without a foundational understanding of what the government is supposed to do for them, how are they going to know how important it is to stop politicians from taking away power from their constituents? How will they confront the injustice if they don’t know what they have a right to? How will we ever see to a more equal America?
Kim Wehle’s book is one that I wish I’d had as a kid, and one that I believe should be given to every incoming freshman in America. It has discussion questions built in and kitcschy illustrations of ducks accompanying each chapter. Everyone should be so lucky to have this taught to them in school in such a straightforward way rather than, for example, getting to a point in one’s mid-to-late twenties without knowing how to change voter registration or how the deadlines and myriad restrictions vary by state. American politics shouldn’t exist behind this smokescreen that requires hours/days/weeks of research or listening closely to reruns of West Wing (which I love to do but that’s beside the point). If public schools get federal funding, it should be a requirement that everyone gets access to an education that emphasizes and fosters civic engagement in its young people. Without a foundational understanding of what the government is supposed to do for them, how are they going to know how important it is to stop politicians from taking away power from their constituents? How will they confront the injustice if they don’t know what they have a right to? How will we ever see to a more equal America?
June 25, 2020
Considering this is an election year and it's been a while since I've been in school, I thought I would pick this title up for a little refresher. This title is a instruction booklet and guide to the basic ins and outs of voting and what processes affect our ability to vote. The first part guides you through the process of voting, the second part explains what voting is and how it works, and the third part discusses the loopholes and pitfalls in the system that can prevent voting or dishonestly impact it. It was a short read, but very informative.
Many topics discussed I could remember from Government class in school or even History class. But, as an adult, it doesn't hurt to refresh the mind with at least a basic understanding of one of our core civic duties. The author explains the facts, but also explores the reasoning of both sides of the argument with issues such as gerrymandering or money in politics. It was also interesting to see how much of a contrast each state can differ in the voting process, how to vote, who can vote, etc. Aspects of voting most people probably don't think about and honestly probably didn't learn in school.
I gave this title a 3 out of 5 stars. It was a great informative read for being aware of how diligent we should be in the voting process, but also brings an awareness of faults in the system that need to be addressed. The biggest drawback of this title is that it provides website URLs and specific voting requirements by state that can change in the long-term. Much like informative textbooks or certain nonfiction topics, certain areas of the book may need updating as policies and requirements change. Brief, informative read. Would recommend.
Many topics discussed I could remember from Government class in school or even History class. But, as an adult, it doesn't hurt to refresh the mind with at least a basic understanding of one of our core civic duties. The author explains the facts, but also explores the reasoning of both sides of the argument with issues such as gerrymandering or money in politics. It was also interesting to see how much of a contrast each state can differ in the voting process, how to vote, who can vote, etc. Aspects of voting most people probably don't think about and honestly probably didn't learn in school.
I gave this title a 3 out of 5 stars. It was a great informative read for being aware of how diligent we should be in the voting process, but also brings an awareness of faults in the system that need to be addressed. The biggest drawback of this title is that it provides website URLs and specific voting requirements by state that can change in the long-term. Much like informative textbooks or certain nonfiction topics, certain areas of the book may need updating as policies and requirements change. Brief, informative read. Would recommend.
October 19, 2020
I would give this four stars for mentioning voting issues, but only three stars ultimately for execution. Kim Wehle raises all of the issues I would raise and I love that her stated intent is to encourage all Americans to vote and to make the experience and process more comfortable for voters.
When she raised issues that are matters of current debate in our society, however, she often devoted more time to explaining one side of the issue over the other side. To her credit, she did always mention the side she didn't agree with. However, I wish she had given both sides the same amount of space so that she appeared less like she was advocating for one side over the other. This primarily happened in the second half of the book when I found myself saying, "Yeah, but . . .!" and I wished she'd addressed more fully the counter arguments to the statements she made.
Still, this is a great book to give to a new voter or anyone who feels intimidated by the political process. Ms. Wehle writes in a very accessible manner, the book is short and the most important information is front loaded for the reader's convenience.
When she raised issues that are matters of current debate in our society, however, she often devoted more time to explaining one side of the issue over the other side. To her credit, she did always mention the side she didn't agree with. However, I wish she had given both sides the same amount of space so that she appeared less like she was advocating for one side over the other. This primarily happened in the second half of the book when I found myself saying, "Yeah, but . . .!" and I wished she'd addressed more fully the counter arguments to the statements she made.
Still, this is a great book to give to a new voter or anyone who feels intimidated by the political process. Ms. Wehle writes in a very accessible manner, the book is short and the most important information is front loaded for the reader's convenience.
August 29, 2020
This is definitely a beginner's primer about voting (just my level tbh), and I did learn a few things that will stick with me. For one thing, voting isn't really a right guaranteed to us at all, and if we want to have a say in how our country is run, we need to keep fighting. The main thing is, we gotta vote, and we gotta do it early if possible and in every election whether state or federal.
It was interesting to hear about other countries' voting practices, such as how election day is a holiday in Australia and if they don't vote, they receive fines. Or, how Canada has a standardized ballot that everyone across the whole country uses. I also appreciated learning more about what the electoral college is and how it functions—I've never really understood that.
The author tries to keep to the middle of the road throughout the writing, being as neutral as possible especially around subjects that people on either side of the spectrum probably have strong feelings about. I tried to keep in mind that this was supposed to be a simple guide aimed at a widest possible audience. But, I did get hung up on how the book blindly avoided discussing issues of white supremacy and its stranglehold on the whole voting history and process. Yes, the book mentions some history here and mentions how voting has been historically more difficult for Black people and other people of color, but it felt cursory. I get that this book wasn't supposed to be an in-depth examination of everything that's wrong with our system of voting, but I guess I was just hoping for more.
It was interesting to hear about other countries' voting practices, such as how election day is a holiday in Australia and if they don't vote, they receive fines. Or, how Canada has a standardized ballot that everyone across the whole country uses. I also appreciated learning more about what the electoral college is and how it functions—I've never really understood that.
The author tries to keep to the middle of the road throughout the writing, being as neutral as possible especially around subjects that people on either side of the spectrum probably have strong feelings about. I tried to keep in mind that this was supposed to be a simple guide aimed at a widest possible audience. But, I did get hung up on how the book blindly avoided discussing issues of white supremacy and its stranglehold on the whole voting history and process. Yes, the book mentions some history here and mentions how voting has been historically more difficult for Black people and other people of color, but it felt cursory. I get that this book wasn't supposed to be an in-depth examination of everything that's wrong with our system of voting, but I guess I was just hoping for more.
February 27, 2020
Even The Good Parts Will Rapidly Be - Admittedly - Outdated. This was yet another of those books whose premise held such promise, and yet whose execution was sorely lacking. The only redeemable parts of this platitude, inaccuracy, and outright lies that are damn close to libel (but to be absolutely clear do *not*, in my understanding, actually cross that line) filled book are the numerous charts of where the law stands on various issues relating to voter registration, ballot access, and similar State level issues. The rest of the text is at best a series of platitudes about how "vital" voting is and at worst lies such that if the target were not a public figure would likely be a fairly easy libel case. (The standard for libel against a public figure is much higher than the one for just a "normal" private citizen.) The charts are the *only* thing preventing this text from being a "gold mine" level - my singular worst personal rating - and as the author admits every time she discusses one, will be outdated within just a few years and potentially even before this book actually goes to print. This is one of those books that in all honesty I personally would not publish with its existing text, but which could make a buck or two from the charts alone. It is for these charts that I can recommend this book at least for the next couple of months, but other than the charts I would not recommend it at all.
Just to be perfectly clear, I have never supported the current President, nor his predecessor and in all likelihood nor his successor. Instead, I am a person that has a fair degree of expertise in election laws and issues myself, having ran for City Council twice in rural southern Georgia, recruited a Statewide candidate for office in Georgia under a non-D/R Party, been that Party's Legislative Director, ran a Facebook group promoting open ballot access, ran a political blog focusing on various issues including election laws, and even interviewed both Brian Kemp and Stacey Abrams as a result of some of those other efforts. I am no law professor as the author is, but I am *far* more knowledgeable about these issues than the average reader and, based on my reading of the text, it seems that I may in fact be more knowledgeable on these issues than the author herself. Despite much of my knowledge being 10 yrs out of date on exact particulars.
Just to be perfectly clear, I have never supported the current President, nor his predecessor and in all likelihood nor his successor. Instead, I am a person that has a fair degree of expertise in election laws and issues myself, having ran for City Council twice in rural southern Georgia, recruited a Statewide candidate for office in Georgia under a non-D/R Party, been that Party's Legislative Director, ran a Facebook group promoting open ballot access, ran a political blog focusing on various issues including election laws, and even interviewed both Brian Kemp and Stacey Abrams as a result of some of those other efforts. I am no law professor as the author is, but I am *far* more knowledgeable about these issues than the average reader and, based on my reading of the text, it seems that I may in fact be more knowledgeable on these issues than the author herself. Despite much of my knowledge being 10 yrs out of date on exact particulars.
November 7, 2020
America's voting process is complex and confusing, but it is important that citizens have a grasp of their rights as voters, so this book serves a need. It is informative, the author is qualified and capable. I do like her main takeaway which is "the importance and privilege of being able to participate in free elections, however imperfect they may be." My main takeaway which I shared liberally with everybody the last few months was that no US voter should be turned away at the polls without at least either voting provisionally, or registering to vote on the spot.
Wehle repeats herself about how 50 states, US territories and umpteen local jurisdictions being a lot to wrestle with, and how impossible it is to provide totally accurate up-to-date information in a printed book, but then she includes 43 pages of charts which may or may not be of any help to readers. Same goes for the 85 page appendix which also consists of charts of same questionable value at whatever time the reader reads it.
I understand why a professor would end each chapter with discussion question; in a classroom setting these questions are addressed and enriching discussions ensue, but um, not so satisfying when reading a book like this alone. What I did not understand at all, was why Wehle chose to illustrate this book with mixed metaphors involving chickens in chef hats dancing. I really struggled to get through this book, but I am glad I did.
Wehle repeats herself about how 50 states, US territories and umpteen local jurisdictions being a lot to wrestle with, and how impossible it is to provide totally accurate up-to-date information in a printed book, but then she includes 43 pages of charts which may or may not be of any help to readers. Same goes for the 85 page appendix which also consists of charts of same questionable value at whatever time the reader reads it.
I understand why a professor would end each chapter with discussion question; in a classroom setting these questions are addressed and enriching discussions ensue, but um, not so satisfying when reading a book like this alone. What I did not understand at all, was why Wehle chose to illustrate this book with mixed metaphors involving chickens in chef hats dancing. I really struggled to get through this book, but I am glad I did.
November 2, 2020
This book accomplished exactly what I expected. It broke down a lot of the basics about voting in a way that is quite easy to understand. I believe that the book was going for an unbiased look at voting, but it was pretty easy to see that early on the author was writing with a slight bias. I didn't mind that bias as much because I felt like it added some life to the book and made it more relatable for me. One thing that I wasn't the biggest fan of with this book is that it is almost an exploitation book with its focus being on the results of the 2016 election, and the importance of the upcoming 2020 election. This is completely fine for those of us reading the novel before the 2020 election, but for those who will try picking it up after may feel a little ostracized from the conversation. I feel like the book would have benefited a lot from lightening up on the focus of the 2016 and 2020 elections. Overall though, I learned quite a bit from this book. Some of it I already knew, but as someone who isn't a huge fan of American history, there were a few things that I learned while reading: 3/5ths Compromise (more specifics about why exactly it was enacted), electoral college (more information on how members are chosen specifically), mail-in-ballot info, voting guidelines for each state, provisional ballots, etc.
I'd say if you are someone who doesn't know a lot about American history and politics, you may benefit from learning the ins and outs that are listed within this book. However, if you are already interested in American politics and history, and you feel like you have a good hold on voting information, then this book may not be able to give you more in-depth, specific information that you may be seeking.
I'd say if you are someone who doesn't know a lot about American history and politics, you may benefit from learning the ins and outs that are listed within this book. However, if you are already interested in American politics and history, and you feel like you have a good hold on voting information, then this book may not be able to give you more in-depth, specific information that you may be seeking.
October 5, 2020
I’ve heard people say they hesitate to engage in dialogue about voting because they don’t feel educated on the topic. If you want to strengthen your knowledge, please read What You Need to Know About Voting and Why by Kim Wehle.
This books succinctly explains the mechanics of our voting system, from voter registration to the Electoral College. It also includes thematic tables of state by state voting laws. I particularly enjoyed the chapter on campaign finance, which I knew exactly nothing about before reading this (dark money sounds shady, but what is it?!) This book is an excellent resource to learn the ins and outs in a digestible way.
This books succinctly explains the mechanics of our voting system, from voter registration to the Electoral College. It also includes thematic tables of state by state voting laws. I particularly enjoyed the chapter on campaign finance, which I knew exactly nothing about before reading this (dark money sounds shady, but what is it?!) This book is an excellent resource to learn the ins and outs in a digestible way.
October 22, 2020
Everyone can benefit from reading this book. It's a super civics lesson or refresher, especially during these times. It is perhaps best to review it periodically. As we gear up for a presidential election, all citizens must understand the right to vote and the process of the Electoral College. The chapter on Gerrymandering is also relevant and concerning. Good discussion about recent SCOTUS decisions regarding voting rights and the ever prevalent voter suppression. It's a great instructive read.
December 22, 2020
This book was very informative, but definitely no written objectively. Considering they are a journalist I expected better. Think most people could learn from this book about voting. It is a great introduction and also covers the current controversy around voting.
This was written before the 2020 election so it is humorous the read the authors take on voter fraud. Although, now with all the data being collected from this election I am certain it will shift the voters outlook on future elections.
This was written before the 2020 election so it is humorous the read the authors take on voter fraud. Although, now with all the data being collected from this election I am certain it will shift the voters outlook on future elections.
January 26, 2021
I really enjoyed this book but the liberal undertones were quite apparent in this book compared to her other book. The examples that she used in her book almost always pointed to Trump when I know that there are several examples of democrats that would’ve been a better example. I took the writer and her background into consideration while I continued reading. When she was apolitical, the book was a joy to read!! Same with “How to Read The Constitution and Why”. Both great books! Just wish she would tone down the Trump examples.
July 29, 2024
4h 46m
This should be required reading for ALL and updated after each election.
Part 1: Voting State by State, What You Need to Know
1: The Two Step Recipe for Voting
2: Moving Out of State, Missed an Election Cycle
3: The Latest on Ballet Confusion and Voting
Part 2: Voting is Not Constitutional Right (It Al
4: What Does the Right To Vote Even Means
5: Who Gets to Vote Legally in America
6: Key Ingredients to Electing a President
7: Key Ingredients to Electing People to Congress
Part 3: Why Your Right to Vote is in Danger Today
8: How Dug in Are Politicians? Gerrimendering
9: Does Your Vote Even Matter?
10: Money in Politics
11: Voter Suppression and Voter Fraud: Myths or Realities
12: Voter Misinformation
This should be required reading for ALL and updated after each election.
Part 1: Voting State by State, What You Need to Know
1: The Two Step Recipe for Voting
2: Moving Out of State, Missed an Election Cycle
3: The Latest on Ballet Confusion and Voting
Part 2: Voting is Not Constitutional Right (It Al
4: What Does the Right To Vote Even Means
5: Who Gets to Vote Legally in America
6: Key Ingredients to Electing a President
7: Key Ingredients to Electing People to Congress
Part 3: Why Your Right to Vote is in Danger Today
8: How Dug in Are Politicians? Gerrimendering
9: Does Your Vote Even Matter?
10: Money in Politics
11: Voter Suppression and Voter Fraud: Myths or Realities
12: Voter Misinformation
July 10, 2020
Helpful, hopeful, and maddening as well. This is a great book (especially during an election year) for the basics of voting—how to do so in each state and charts of info for anything you need to know. At some point, I’m assuming this will be outdated, but still mostly helpful nonetheless. I enjoyed reading about both the flaws and strengths in our voting system, the electoral college, and why we need to do it!
July 23, 2020
Very informative read. I read this as an educator of young people who think their votes do not matter. I wish I could use this in my classroom as a case study for students. At the end of every chapter there are discussion questions to help question and form opinions about the subject of that chapter and give more information on the topic. This is a read that is meant to open the eyes of Americans who do not pay attention or think they don't really need to vote.
October 13, 2020
A nice simple breakdown of how to vote, why vote and obstacles to voting. A good refresher for anyone that follows politics but doesn't know some of the particulars. A great intro for those that have not had a civics class or are trying to get educated on the topic. This is not a deep level book on theory and policy. Likely only valid for this precarious time in 2020 before the November election. Still a decent read.
September 3, 2024
I think this book is very informative and everyone should read it. It clears up some misunderstandings on how the voting process is set up and gives a great overview. Of course each state has it's own rules so you would need to research your own state. But overall i really learned a lot from this book. I would probably recommend getting a physical book because it makes looking at the appendixes easier.
November 3, 2020
This book has taught me SO MUCH. It is incredibly accessible, easy to understand, and quite intriguing. I cannot emphasize enough how important the information in this book is. I wish that I had learned these things in school as a young person. Kim Wells has given a gift to us Americans. Everyone should read it! I can’t recommend it enough.
November 3, 2020
It's Election Day in the United States and I thought that this book would be a great reminder of why we vote. This book breaks down the voting process in terms people can understand and delves into the issues surrounding voting like gerrymandering and campaign finance. This book has even changed my mind about the Electoral College and the way that the Senate is set up
April 12, 2021
This is a really great book that is easy to understand and gives a clear, matter-of-fact look at voting and what the Constitution says about various aspects of it. A really great starting base for someone that knows nothing about US voting - while also providing some deeper areas of knowledge for someone that has an average knowledge.
July 13, 2021
I thought this would be dry and boring but it is really essential reading. This explains so much about voting, our elected officials (not specific people, but the position), dark money, voter fraud, etc. It all seems to be based in fact and is non-partisan although specific elections are discussed.
This is currently on my list of books people should be reading.
This is currently on my list of books people should be reading.
February 27, 2020
This is so important and every American (or curious non-American!) should read this. I consider myself pretty well informed, but even I learned from this. Great for teens as well as adults; start with a good foundation.
Received an eARC from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
Received an eARC from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
July 7, 2020
Review to come...
Notes:
- Last third of book is the appendix, notes, and index
- Final chapter utilized bolded terms and bulleted lists for definitions, need to see if this format was used elsewhere
Notes:
- Last third of book is the appendix, notes, and index
- Final chapter utilized bolded terms and bulleted lists for definitions, need to see if this format was used elsewhere
July 30, 2020
As John Lewis said in his last piece published the day of his funeral:
"Voting and participating in the democratic process are key. The vote is the most powerful nonviolent change agent you have in a democratic society. You must use it because it is not guaranteed. You can lose it."
"Voting and participating in the democratic process are key. The vote is the most powerful nonviolent change agent you have in a democratic society. You must use it because it is not guaranteed. You can lose it."
October 23, 2020
There are some really great things in here if you haven’t thought about government since your high school civics class. A refresher that will help you ask all the right questions as we prepare to vote.
July 28, 2019
Always good to review our Constitution. A nice little primer.
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June 19, 2020What You Need To Know About Voting And Why is an important and informative read. Every American should read this book. Great for teens as well as adults; start with a good foundation.
August 24, 2020
Made a lot of the unknowns about voting known.
October 14, 2020
Vote!!!!
November 20, 2020
Really interesting read and quite easy to digest. Highlights how complex US voting is with different state laws. Handy grids in the appendix outline the specifics of each state.
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