Local Politics: A Practical Guide to Governing at the Grassroots

by Terry Christensen, Tom Hogen-Esch

Unlike most competing texts that are densely written and heavily theoretical, with little flavor of political life, this book is a readable, jargon-free introduction to real-life local politics for today's students. While it encompasses local government and politics in cities and towns across America, "Local Politics: A Practical Guide to Governing at the Grassroots" gives special attention to the politics of suburbia, where many students live, and encourages them to become engaged in their own communities. The book is also distinguished by its strong emphasis on nuts-and-bolts practical politics. It provides focused discussion of institutions, roles, and personalities as well as the dynamic environment of local politics (demographics, immigration, globalization, etc.) and major policy issues (budgets, land use, transportation, education, etc.). Other texts treat communities as abstractions and readers as passive observers. "Local Politics: A Practical Guide to Governing at the Grassroots" is designed to inspire civic engagement as well as understanding. It features "In Your Community" research projects for students in every chapter along with informative tables, clear charts, essential terms, and guides to useful websites.

408 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2006

Reviews

[Annie Jarman · Rating 3 out of 5]

Basically an encyclopedia to teach all the basics about how local government operates in dry detail. Does what it says it will do.

[David Light · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this book, Christensen provides a very substantive and practical look at local politics. For anyone interested in the inner-dynamics at the local level of politics, this book is great for you. The book discusses what influences local politicians, including special interest groups, community organizations, and political motives. Additionally, it delves into what is needed to run for office, and what local elected officials do in office. I know this is a short summary and there is much more to the book than I noted (I read it a year ago) but it is a great read for anyone looking to expand knowledge on local politics. Christensen also has been in the thick of local politics for 30 years, so he knows his stuff.