A Pocket Guide to the US Constitution: What Every American Needs to Know

by Andrew B. Arnold

The Constitution is not so simple that it explains itself--nor so complex that only experts can understand it.

In this accessible, nonpartisan quick reference, historian Andrew Arnold provides concise explanations of the Constitution's meaning and history, offering little-known facts and anecdotes about every article and all twenty-seven amendments. This handy guide won't tell you what the Constitution ought to say, nor what it ought to mean. It will tell you what the Constitution says and what it has meant.

A Pocket Guide to the US Constitution presents a straightforward way to understand the American Constitutional system. Without wading through lengthy legal prose, heavy historical analysis, or polemical diatribes, you can easily find out what the emoluments clause means, learn about gerrymandering and separation of powers, or read a brief background on why slaves in colonial America were considered 3/5 of a person.

Small enough to put in your pocket, backpack, or briefcase, A Pocket Guide to the US Constitution can be used to comprehend current events, dig deeper into court cases, or sort out your own opinions on constitutional issues.

192 pages, Hardcover

First published December 21, 2010

Reviews

[Jess · Rating 4 out of 5]

I came upon this book at the Kutztown University bookstore. An alumni and longer a student, I had no need for this book as a required reading but for pure interest only. Also, I have never had Dr. Arnold for any classes, so no bias here on that matter. Having not had any kind of immersion into a class or discussion on the U.S. Constitution since 10th grade, I thought it appropriate to pick up a pocket sized book that I could easily read and gain insight into the Constitution without heavy reading. I found exactly what I needed in this book. I gained an enhanced understanding of the U.S. Constitution, it's historical context, background, and influences of major Supreme Court Rulings in regards to its interpretation. Now I feel more confident to respond to the argument of "It's in the Constitution!" With a "yes and"...(insert landmark Supreme Court case per argument.)

[Anne Jordan-Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this short book way more than I expected. Reading this was a great way to learn about the Constitution but also about American history since the 18th century. A really interesting and fun read. No, I’m not kidding.

Spoiler: the 18th amendment didn’t work out so well.

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting and important read. One downside is the book could get dry at times.

[Earl Tower · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Andrew Arnold has attempted within 170 pages to give a concise summary of the U.S Constitution, its history, and how many of the decisions and interpretations of the past are still very much with us today. The author does not attempt to lay out any political agenda or biased interpretation of the document that is the very core of American jurisprudence. Instead he has successfully contextualized each article and amendment of the U.S. Constitution in light of the original Constitutional Convention, and historical evolution of interpretations right up to the modern era.

This is an excellent resource for those wanting to get a broad overview of this complex but vital piece of the United States. It also makes a good gift to students studying American history.

[Maria Yohn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone should read this. What more can I say?