What is the book’s main contribution to our understanding of American government and politics?

Your book review should be insightful and based on your analysis of the text. I am not looking for a retelling of the book. Rather, I am looking for your thoughts on the book in regard to your understanding of American government and politics. Be specific and clear. It is you job as the writer to ensure the reader understands your thesis. Thus, your links need to be well thought out, clearly explained, and demonstrative of your critical thinking at work.
Introduction (1 page): The introduction is the most important part of any well-written paper. It is meant to capture the attention of the reader as well as lay out your arguments. It should not be generic, and it should be free from language such as “in this paper I will discuss.” Make it interesting. Be creative. Follow your introduction with a brief summary of the main points and circumstances involved with the issue. The summary must be succinct, concise and clear. This section will be the most difficult portion of the assignment since you must summarize a great deal of information in no more than half of a page.
Some things to keep in mind: what are your initial impressions of the book? What are your thoughts on the first chapter?
Reflection (3 pages): Your analysis/reflection includes two components.
The first component includes an the application of concepts. How are concepts/issues such as political power, founding principles, government, (in)equality, civic engagement, activism, voting, identity, American society, disenfranchisement, etc. addressed in the book? You must analyze/highlight at least two course-specific concepts. How do these concepts help you understand American politics?
The second component involves your pondering where you think the issue is headed in regard to local, state or federal response. Illustrate your argument by referencing and analyzing a specific passage of the book. What would need to happen in order for the issue be “resolved”? Make sure you define “resolved”.
Overall, I will be looking for creative, insightful and thoughtful responses that balance opinion and analysis.
Conclusion (1/2 to 1 page): What is the book’s main contribution to our understanding of American government and politics? Select a favorite quote or two and analyze them. How do these quotes illustrate or capture the main thesis of the book?

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