Grace for President
#1 of 2 in Grace for President Series
What’s inside...
A fresh, fun, and 'thought-provoking' New York Times bestseller about the American electoral college and the importance of every vote. The book follows Grace, who decides to run for president in her school's mock election after learning the United States has never had a female president. Despite facing a challenging opponent, Grace is determined to show that she can be the best person for the job, not just the best man. The story provides an engaging introduction to the American electoral system while emphasizing the values of hard work, courage, and independent thought.
Discussion points
Why do you think Grace wanted to be president?
What are some qualities you think a good leader should have, like Grace?
How did Grace and her classmates learn about elections and voting?
What can you do to help make decisions at home or in your classroom?
How do you feel when you work together with friends to solve a problem or reach a goal?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences, like a time they helped make a decision or worked with others towards a common goal.
Discuss the importance of leadership and what it means to be a fair leader, drawing parallels to Grace’s character in the book.
Highlight the democratic process shown in the book and relate it to real-life scenarios such as school or community decisions.
Foster an understanding of diversity and representation in leadership roles, discussing how everyone, regardless of background, has important contributions to make.
Praise your child’s insights and encourage them to think of ways they can be leaders in their own lives.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding democracy and elections
Explanation: Grace for President portrays a school election, providing a simplified yet effective introduction to how elections function and the concept of democracy.
Real-World Application: Children can better appreciate and take part in classroom, school, or community decisions that involve voting or democratic processes.
Example Lesson: Importance of representation
Explanation: Grace questions why there have been no female presidents, sparking a discussion about gender representation in leadership roles.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to recognize the value of diversity and representation in leadership within their own environments, from classroom monitors to student councils.
Example Lesson: Determination and perseverance
Explanation: Grace's commitment to running for president despite the odds teaches the value of persistence and striving to achieve one's goals.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of setting goals and not giving up, whether it’s in academics, sports, or other extracurricular activities.
Example Lesson: Value of hard work
Explanation: Grace prepares diligently for the election, showing that hard work is essential to achieving objectives.
Real-World Application: This lesson emphasizes to children the importance of preparation and diligence in school projects, chores, and other responsibilities.
Example Lesson: Learning about electoral processes
Explanation: The book uses a mock electoral college voting system, which introduces children to a fundamental component of American presidential elections.
Real-World Application: Children can gain an early understanding of key civic concepts, which can enhance their comprehension in future civics classes and foster informed citizenship.