"My fellow Americans,
When I was running for President, I said you should vote for me because I didn't know anything about politics . . . or how to raise taxes . . . or how to ruin the economy. I didn't know how to get us into a war. I said you should vote for me because I didn't know anything.
Well, that was two months ago, and I'm very proud to say that . . . I still don't know anything. Let's face it: I'm a kid. I'm going to need a lot of help. Here's the deal I offer America: I'll help all of you if you all help me!"---from the publisher
240 pages 978-0545442145 Ages 9-13
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Judson Moon has done it. He, along with his campaign manager, Lane Brainard, has done what no other kid has accomplished: he has been elected President of the United States.
"At exactly noon on January 20, 2001, I stood before the world, raised my right hand, and recited the following words:'I, Judson Moon, do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will, to the best of my ability, preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.'" As the thirteen-year-old roller-blades from his limousine to the White House following his inauguration (to his father's disapproval, the Secret Service's dismay, and the public's delight), the new President begins the most incredible experience he, and the entire nation, have ever known. From learning about the danger of nuclear attack and personal safety to private tutoring sessions with "Miller the Killer" ("Did you think becoming President meant you would get to miss four years of school, sir?") to approval ratings to meetings with inane supporters, Judson discovers there is more to being leader of the free world than having his own private movie theater and fun-filled weekends at Camp David. "I had been thinking I was the most powerful person in the world, when actually the President of the United States is pretty weak...[Vice President] Syers rolled her wheelchair up to my desk. 'You ain't no king...You're a President.You can't do any old thing you wanna do.' 'What can the President do, anyway?' I asked...'...you have the power to inspire us. You nudge the country in the direction you think it oughta go...That's how you do good in the world.'"
Judson's chance comes when, nearly a year into his Presidency, an international crisis develops. None of the solutions offered by his advisors appeals to him, until he receives inspiration from an unexpected source. Then he knows what he must attempt to do.
This delightful sequel to The Kid Who Ran for President has the same humor, charm, and wit that made the first an election-year winner. The characters are well-rounded and believable. June Syers, Judson's elderly, wise Vice President, is a particular gem. Dan Gutman's stories are perfect for anyone who appreciates a good satire with a message.
215 pages 978-0545442138 Ages 10-13
Recommended by Barbara Karp, Librarian
