Why didn't the founding fathers include the right to vote in the Constitution? This book for general readers is a companion to the 2012 PBS documentary by the same name, hosted by political humorist Mo Rocca. The book explores the legal basis for the right to vote, traces the history of who gets to vote, and offers a historical perspective on the origins of the Electoral College and its impact today. It tackles issues of voting fraud and voter suppression, and seeks to understand why Americans vote or don't vote. The book's conversational writing style is enlivened by the personal stories of American citizens from all walks of life. With its appendices on constitutional provisions, its annotated websites and organizations, and its extensive bibliography of books, articles, reports, and court cases, the book will also be useful for students and scholars. It is illustrated with b&w historical photos, posters, and ballots. An afterword by Heather Smith, president of Rock the Vote, gives recommendations on improving the voting system. Author Bassetti formerly served as staff director and chief counsel to a subcommittee of the US Senate Judiciary Committee. Annotation ©2013 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)