For America: Simple Things Each of Us Can Do to Make Our Country Better

With forewords by both George H. W. Bush and Bill Clinton, professor and activist Zimmerman presnts a bubbly citizen's guide to strengthening the United States. She presents Americans with more than 70 ways to incorporate acts of self-improvement, charity, environmentalism, tolerance and patriotism into their everyday lives. As the book's dual introductions would suggest, Zimmerman encourages readers to ""Wear purple on election day,"" while focusing energy on non-partisan methods of bettering their country, such as donating used books, supporting the symphony, familiarizing oneself with local leaders and hosting an exchange student. Zimmerman acknowledges that Americans are ""busy,"" and her short, bullet-pointed chapters encourage everything from eating at an ethnic restaurant (""an easy, positive first step toward more understanding"") to mentoring a child (""one of the best ways to help direct children ... toward a better future"") with equal enthusiasm. While some of her suggestions (learning CPR, drinking less) seem more practical than patriotic, Zimmerman's guide, which provides readers with lists of helpful organizations and websites, is a good resource for any citizen looking to get involved in their community, combat negative international perceptions of Americans or even improve their family life.