Mercer’s children’s book teaches basics of government

East Carolina University’s Calvin Mercer, professor of religion, has co-authored a children’s book titled “There Ought to Be a Law: A Bright Day at the Capitol,” an informational story for ages 6-9 about how bills become laws.

“This book is a terrific message about how every citizen — especially young people — can make things better where they live. They don’t have to be grown up and able to vote,” former North Carolina governor Jim Hunt said in his endorsement of the book. “I strongly recommend this book to students in North Carolina and throughout America.”

In the book, two students named Eliza and Martin visit the state legislature for an adventure learning how to make an anti-bullying law.

Mercer, who served a decade on the Greenville City Council, co-authored the book with Portia Bright Pittman, who has served as a legislative assistant in the N.C. Senate and House of Representatives.

The co-authors are working to ensure that students across the country in underserved school districts have access to the book.

“I loved the book! I wish I’d had access to this book back in the day when I was teaching fourth grade social studies and needed a more realistic way to explain laws and legislative processes,” said Dr. Patricia Anderson, professor of elementary education at ECU. “The day ends in a long-awaited trip to get ice cream, and the reader can almost taste the deliciousness of the treat along with the fun of learning. The mixture of messages against bullying makes for some subtle learning about the negative effects of bullying for children.”

Beth Ulffers, a former Pitt County Schools Teacher of the Year, said, “The book addresses stereotypes and is inclusive of different races, ethnic backgrounds, religions and genders. I am excited about seeing this book in our classrooms!”

For more information contact brightbooks@brightbooks.org.