Constitutional Sound Bites explains America's Founding documents in a format that is familiar to 21st century readers. This is accomplished in a simple, unbiased, easy-to-read presentation that takes into account the "sound bite" nature of today's cyber-driven, fast-click culture. The Federalist Papers, by John Jay, Alexander Hamilton and James Madison explain the Constitution, but long newspaper essays are not the way Americans get information in the 21st century. Constitutional Sound Bites addresses this difference by translating an 18th Century message into a 21st Century format. There are over 150 question and answer entries, and while the entries are all related, each conveys a stand-alone message about the philosophy, organization and purpose of America's Founding Documents. At a time of deep divisions in the United States the book brings home the important fact that the shared heritage is not liberal nor conservative, Republican nor Democrat but American. The book also contains the text of the Declaration of Independence, Constitution and all amendments. The principal goal of Constitutional Sound Bites is to bring the Constitution alive and explain the origins, purposes and philosophy of the document. Reading the Constitution with the objectives for government, as expressed in the Declaration of Independence and Preamble, in mind makes the experience more meaningful. Knowledge of the aims reveals the purpose of the detailed provisions. Then the provisions are not simply dry definitions of government structure. They are protections for freedom and liberty. Perhaps the most important thing to consider about the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights is they are not Democrat or Republican, nor liberal or conservative, they are American. Their ideals and principles belong to all of us, and a gift from the 18th Century to the 21st. Mr. Shestokas has taken a set of documents, essential to our very being and has made them both accessible and relevant. It is difficult to be a good American without understanding how America was made and what America stands for. Constitutional Sound Bites makes 18th Century courage & brilliance come to life in 21st Century style. Thanks, Dave! Brent Hamachek, author of "How America Broke its Wings" Constitutional Sound Bites provides an accurate and accessible resource regarding the Declaration of Independence, Constitution and Bill of Rights. The book's unique format allows the reader to quickly and effectively grasp the material. The historical anecdotes add depth and context. It is an excellent resource AND an enjoyable read. A "must have" for every American. William Frech, Senior Financial Analyst of S-K Partners, Ltd.
