This Is Our Constitution: What It Is and Why It Matters

by Khizr Khan

From Gold Star father and beloved Democratic National Convention speaker Khizr Khan comes a book for young people about the Constitution—what it says and why it matters for everyone.
 
Our Founding Fathers created the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights as a blueprint for American government and the rights of American citizens. This document is not merely a piece of parchment but a living, breathing promise of our deepest democratic values.
 
Khizr Khan grew up in Pakistan, with few of the fundamental rights that are enshrined in the Constitution. He immigrated to America and became a citizen, raising his family to appreciate and honor all our nation has to offer. He is deeply passionate about the Constitution: the guarantees and protections it provides for each and every person and the beacon of light it shines throughout the world.
 
This Is Our Constitution is a personal journey that Khizr Khan is taking with our nation’s young people. It includes:

* An introduction from Khizr Khan that shares his highly personal perspective on the relevance and importance of the Constitution.
* A history of how the Constitution was drafted, passed, and amended.
* An easy-to-read explanation of exactly what the Constitution and Bill of Rights say.
* A passionate argument about why kids should care deeply about the Constitution (with a focus on the 1st and 14th amendments).
* Information on some of the key turning points in its interpretation that he considers essential to our understanding of our country.
* The complete text of the Constitution, Bill of Rights, and other amendments.
 
This is a book about why the Constitution matters to you, and us all.

Genres: Nonfiction, Middle Grade, History, Politics, Social Justice, Childrens, American History

221 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 24, 2017

About the author

Khizr Muazzam Khan is the father of United States Army Captain Humayun Khan, who was killed in 2004 during the Iraq War and was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. Khizr and his wife Ghazala received international attention following a speech at the 2016 Democratic National Convention that criticized Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump.

Reviews

[Christine Irvin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Khizr Khan, a Gold Star father (his son was an Army captain killed in Iraq in 2004). Khan, born in Pakistan but now a U.S. citizen, is a firm believer in the power and importance of our Constitution. He carries a paperback copy of the text of this great document every where he travels, and is ready to talk about the subject whenever he gets the chance. Khan has written two books about the Constitution. This one is geared for kids. It provides a background into the history of how the Constitution came about and why it is so important.

[Lily Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Khizr Khan does a fantastic job explaining the United States Constitution in an easy to digest way. The love Khan has for the United States of America radiates off of each page. Recommended for any person interested in an overview of the United States Constitution -- a great intro for kids and a good refresher for adults.

[Ashish Vyas · Rating 4 out of 5]

A simple overview of what our constitution means and nuances.

[Irene · Rating 4 out of 5]

After a few introductory chapters, Khizr Khan provides an easy-to-read modern-day "translation" of the Constitution, paraphrasing the original text article by article, section by section, using every-day words that are easy to understand. There's a bit more summarizing with some of the amendments, but the idea is the same. There are also a few sections about landmark Supreme Court cases that shed light on how the Constitution has been interpreted over the years.

I wanted to be able to say that I've actually read the Constitution, so I made the dubious decision to read the original text - which is included in full towards the end of the book - alongside Khizr Khan's "translation". What a slog. :P It was hard for me to parse, and I couldn't figure out what some of the phrases meant. Khizr Khan's version was indispensable in helping me to actually understand the Constitution.

In a book geared towards middle schoolers that carefully explains a number of words, I was a little bothered that "tyranny" and "tyrant" weren't explicitly defined. Also, the "translation" could have been a little clearer in regards to one part of the 12th Amendment; I was confused because the original text referenced a date of March 4, but the paraphrased version stated January 20. I did a little Googling, and it turns out, the date of March 4 (as the start of the new president's term) was changed to January 20 in the 20th Amendment. So both dates were "correct", but the use of January 20 in the "translation" assumes knowledge of the 20th Amendment.

[Laura Thompson · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was fine. This was written back in 2017, and I wonder what this author (as a democrat) would think of today's current events and societal-state. Had a mix of opinion and fact, as would be expected. The book was informative, and I enjoyed hearing the personal stories that were shared. Very telling how much "mainstream" democratic views have shifted in less than 5 years.

This format was audio-book, and while the majority was read in a foreign-English-speaker accent... but the actual constitution, was read in a North-American accent... this was distracting to me. I wish either the author, himself had read the whole thing, or they would have at least kept the same voice throughout the whole book.

[Amy C.]

Khan's informative guide into the mind-boggling world of politics is a joy to all ages!
His descriptive commentary allows youngsters such as myself to indulge on the sometimes indirect meanings of the U.S. Constitution, Bill of Rights, and triumvirate that is the branches of the U.S. government. The expressive content available in this compelling non-fiction book offers readers a meticulous browse-through of the U.S. nation's exhaustive history as well as the Supreme Court cases that shaped the amendments U.S. denizens abide by to this day. Plenary in historical accounts as well as vivid elucidation, Khizr Khan delivers valuable political knowledge to the fledglings of our country.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent review, no matter what your age. Also appreciate the deep feelings of an immigrant who appreciates our freedoms even more.

[Jamie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is aimed at middle grades readers. To be honest, I think they would find it dry. I do think the Constitution is important and essential for governing our country though. It's just tedious to read, and some of it is hard to grasp. Still, everyone should read it, and I appreciate that Khan included its' full text in his book, along with the Declaration of Independence. Mr. Khan is mistaken though, we are not a Democracy, but a Constitutional Republic.

I admire Mr. Khan's patriotism and love of America. Coming from Pakistan, he appreciates the rights and freedoms that many Americans take for granted. What I didn't like was his liberal bias. For instance, he says, "And why is it still so rare for an American woman to hold a high elective office? We believe there is much work to be done to give all the women in this country an equal opportunity to live with full dignity." EYE ROLL. You have got to be kidding - in what ways do women not have equal opportunities and full dignity? Does he live under a rock - there are many women in high elective offices.

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." - from the Declaration of Independence

"We may differ sometimes on how to achieve our lofty goals, but all Americans treasure the enduring values of our Founding Fathers."

[Barbara · Rating 3 out of 5]

The speaker who inspired attendees at the Democratic National Convention in 2016 shares is thoughts about the documents at the core of this nation's existence. Not only does Khizr Khan provide personal notes on why the words in the Declaration of Independence and Constitution are so important to him and his family, but he also explains his interpretations of various parts, including the Bill of Rights, and various Supreme Court decisions rooted in their contents. The book is accessible, easy to understand, and provides a much-needed reminder of how this country is intended to operate. While some school children may find history and civics boring, I've always been intrigued by our nation's longevity and the foresight of our founding fathers. Clearly, ours is not a perfect nation, but there are important safeguards on certain rights, something that is important to be reminded of now more than ever. The author's asides and connections to his own experiences here and in Pakistan, his country of origin, make it clear just how dangerous it can be to live in a place that doesn't protect the rights of its citizens. I enjoyed this brief civic lesson and appreciated the author's deep passion for his subject matter and his adopted country.

[Cindy Mitchell *Kiss the Book* · Rating 3 out of 5]

Khan, Khizr This is Our Constitution, 210 pages. NON-FICTION. Knopf (Random), 2017. $17. Content: G.

Khizr Khan, the man who called out Trump at the Democratic National Convention , has put together a book about the Constitution – its origin, its components, and Khan’s personal notes and explanations.

I don’t know if Khan had extensive writings about the Constitution before the DNC, or if Knopf had a book about the Constitution in the pipeline before the DNC, but there has been more than a year since Khan’s appearance and this feels like a rush job. Students will find it confusing, especially when it separates the actual words of the Constitution from the plain language explanation of each part. Some kind of two-column format would have been much better for that part. There are more problems that I won’t get into. I feel bad, but this is just not well thought out.

MS – OPTIONAL. Cindy, Library Teacher
http://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2017/...

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Recently we picked up THIS IS OUR CONSTITUTION by Khizr Khan after our former school librarian recommended it.

First of all, I thought this book was for the kids but little did I know I would learn as much, if not more than them! The author explains the constitution in terms we all can understand and lays out how it applies to today’s world.

My new favorite amendment is the 9th. Look it up- it’s a fascinating one! Who would have thought I’d have a favorite amendment?!

I highly recommend this book for ages 8+. We listened to the audiobook and followed along with the text, which proved to be very helpful since it gets a bit technical. I won’t lie, the kids got a little bored while reading it, but we pushed on. It was required reading for our family and they now can have intelligent and informed discussions about our democracy. It’s a total win!

If you read one book with your children this year, make this it.

[Jean-Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent resource for young readers who want to learn more about the Constitution and how the three branches of federal government operate. The book also offers some key landmark Supreme Court cases as examples. I read every word with my 12-year-old. When we got to the reading of the Constitution of the United States of America, he followed along on our (ACLU) pocket Constitution like the one Mr. Khan carries. I think this is a great addition to a middle school reading list. My tween learned a lot. He paid special attention to Article II to ascertain whether or not it gives the President the power to do whatever he or she wants as President. It, in fact, does not. This is a perfect read for the times.

[Katie]

This book feels very attractive, and there are parts of it that I do value, but it's written with the bias of a liberal author, and subtle statements throughout the book very clearly reflect his own interpretations and ideas rather than matter-of-fact, impartial truth. It was recommended as a resource for middle schoolers to learn about our constitution, but the numerous deceitful phrases throughout the book are not appropriate for young people just beginning to learn about our country's laws and freedoms. I can see myself using it as a personal resource, but I would not hand it to a young person unable to discern between what is true and what is not concerning this subject.

[Evelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book written as an introduction to the US Constitution for grade schoolers is also worthwhile reader for anyone who wants to familiarize himself or herself with the provisions of the US Constitution and their meaning.

The author includes information on the Declaration of Independence and background information on the historical events leading to the writing and adoption of the Constitution as well as some anecdotes from his life as a framework for his presentation on the provisions of the document and their meaning.

The book rates 4.5 stars.

[Julia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading this non-fiction for MG readers, I found the Constitutional claim against the current hateful policy separating children from their parents at the Mexican border: the Fourteenth Amendment. In describing the concept of 'due process' Khizr Khan writes. “Clear and fair legal procedures must be applied to everyone in the same way in the United States. If you are accused of a crime, you have clear specific rights.” (33) This is easy to read and the addition of Khan's experiences of living in Pakistan without these protections was illuminating. I borrowed this from interlibrary loan.

[Tandava Graham · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very good book for middle grade readers. It includes the full original text of the constitution and a very readable paraphrase of it. There is historical information about its creation, more in-depth details on certain sections and amendments, and discussion of various Supreme Court cases related to it. The author presents it all with reverence and respect, born of his contrasting experiences growing up in Pakistan, but which we would all do well to emulate. Even as an adult, I found it a very interesting and useful overview.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this so close to Independence Day is just a coincidence, but it made the read much more precious. Khan immigrated from Pakistan and is well known for his love of the constitution. This love comes through in his writing, especially when he contrasts the life he left in Pakistan with his experiences in the United States. As an American, I sometimes take for granted the amazing care that went into this document. I’m glad to have the reminder in Khan’s book.

[Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really well-done breakdown of America's Constitution by Khizr Khan.

What I appreciated the most was Khan's point of view (of political freedoms) coming from Pakistan.
I think his perspective, which he shares throughout the book, will really shed some light on what true freedom means for the American children reading this. (Though I have to say, I'm an adult reader, and I also really enjoyed this.)

[Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very nicely written overview for kids, recommended. I especially liked how the author drew from his personal story, growing up in an authoritarian country, to emphasize the crucial importance of the Constitution. I actually started to wish there was more of his compelling personal story in the book so kids could understand and connect!

[Bruce Bonner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Khizr

Thank you Khizr Khan for this excellent review of the Constitution. When we get civics classes back in the curriculum this should be a required textbook. Thank you to your son Captain Khan for his service and highest sacrifice. You are what makes America TRULY great.

[Tyler Whitby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book about the Constitution for young readers. The author immigrated to the United States from Pakistan and became a lawyer and U.S. citizen with a son who served in the military. His perspective on the Constitution and the rights and freedoms we have in the U.S. helped to make this a fantastic read.

[David · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was a good book, and I really liked the Supreme Court cases that were discussed at the end. However, I wish they also went into a bit more depth. I wonder if there are easy-to-read books that are devoted to summarizing Supreme Court cases.

[Melinda Barlass · Rating 5 out of 5]

Actually a good, easy to understand, description and meaning of the US Constitution. Every American needs to read the Constitution and this book brings it down to an understandable level. Written for middle school students, it is still a valuable read for all adults.

[Erin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Love the idea of this and Mr. Khan more than the actual execution. The first part analyzes the Bill of Rights and it makes it really accessible! The second part is just the amendments to the Constitution and perhaps would have been better served with some explanation.

[Ellen Fitzgerald · Rating 3 out of 5]

The pets where the author talked about his son, and explained why it is important to be an informed citizen were interesting. Although the rest of the book was very dry. My daughter listened to the book with me,and at one point it was almost verbatim what was written in her AP GOV textbook. (not a part that was the actual reading of the Constitution)

[Anita Routh · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this very informative and concise. I read it as part of a booklist for junior high aged readers, but I don't think that is the age group for this book. As an adult, however, I enjoyed it. It is very straightforward and not at all confusing.

[Clare Lund · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a fantastic resource! An incredibly in-depth but accessible explanation of the U.S. Constitution, Amendments, and important Supreme Court cases. Ages 10 and up — all social studies teachers should especially read and utilize this book!

[Linda V · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tis is a clear concise breakdown of the Constitution. A nice companion to classroom instruction, or review read for any age.

[Alesia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really informative. Cool case stories, some I knew but some I didnt.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although written for the middle schooler, which means the language is easily understood, the subject is one which all Americans need to review.