A Return to Common Sense

How to Fix America Before We Really Blow It

By: Leigh McGowan

Narrated by: Leigh McGowan

This instant New York Times bestselling political book is “an essential companion for anyone who suspects that politics is in fact for everyone, and that the time to put skin in the game is right now” (Dahlia Lithwick, New York Times bestselling author)—from viral TikTok sensation PoliticsGirl.

Something’s gone wrong in the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave. We can all feel it, but if we’re being honest, most of us don’t understand it. At the end of the day, we don’t have all the facts, and if you don’t know how something works, how do you fix it?

A Return to Common Sense is an “accessible and urgent” (Kirkus Reviews), dare we say fun, guide to how America works and a roadmap to reclaiming a government of, by, and for the people. We fought a revolutionary war for the idea of self-governance and pursuit of happiness—we can’t just give up on it now.

To address the crisis, Leigh McGowan offers Six American Principles, rooted in history, that we can all agree make America, America.

1. America is a land of freedom.
2. Everyone should have the opportunity to rise.
3. Every citizen should have a vote, and that vote should count.
4. Representatives should represent the people who elected them.
5. The law applies to all of us.
6. Government should be a force for good.

Using the Six Principles as guideposts, this book lays out suggestions for America, to not only find its way out of the mess it’s currently in, but to set a course for a future of which we can all be truly proud.

The warning that faces us today.

I like the sense of optimism mixed with fear that the author left me with. I am concerned though that the efforts that need to be taken will come either too late or will occur too slowly to make any difference in our lifetime, Then again, I'm a pessimist.

Perfect for real patriots!

Leigh knows what she is talking about. She’s smart, she researches, and she really wants this country to be the best we can be instead of the sliding down the fascist direction we are currently on. If you aren’t a fan of her Politics Girl posts and videos, you will be!

Politics For Dummies

Leigh explains how government works so simply and clearly. You don't need a PHD to understand. Loved this book.

Leigh should be every person’s civics teacher

McGowan breaks down our most complex government systems, their history, pros, cons, vulnerabilities and possibilities with her gift for crystal clear storytelling. I was riveted and consider myself a devotee of history and quite civics literate and still learned so much!

Very enlightening

I really appreciate the well studied subject, especially the analysis of the period since I took American Government in school (70s). Thank you for the thorough explanation and I think all new voters should be required to take a Civics class before being allowed to vote. We encourage people to register and vote without making sure they understand what and who they are voting for or against.