A Children's Story about Democracy, Community, and Raising Your Voice.

Inspiring kids – and the adults who guide them – to speak up, work together, and embody "We the People.”

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Why Ruthie Exists

Children make sense of the world through stories.

When my daughter began asking questions about democracy, I realized how hard it was to explain something so human, complex, and emotional with definitions alone. She didn’t need a textbook, she needed a story she could connect to.

Ruthie for the People was written to bring democracy to life through a relatable, engaging narrative. Through Ruthie’s journey, kids explore what it means to use their voice, to disagree respectfully, and to work toward solutions that serve the whole community.

What Kids Learn Through Ruthie

Voice Matters
Kids learn that speaking up — thoughtfully and respectfully — can create real change.

Democracy & Compromise
Democracy isn’t about winning; it’s about listening, balancing needs, and finding common ground.

Disagreeing Without Being Disagreeable
Differences don’t have to divide us. They can lead to better outcomes when handled with care.

OUr Mission

Ruthie for the People was written to help children understand that democracy isn’t just a system — it’s a shared human experience.

Through story, the book invites kids to explore what it means to use their voice, listen to others, care for their community, and navigate disagreement with empathy and respect.

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Ways to work with

The book

A beautifully illustrated children’s book for ages 7–10 that introduces the core ideas of democracy through story, not lectures.

Perfect for families, classrooms, libraries, and community discussions, Ruthie for the People encourages curiosity, conversation, and civic responsibility — without feeling heavy or overwhelming.

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Author Visits & Discussions

Interactive visits designed for classrooms, libraries, and community groups.

Through readings, guided discussions, and age-appropriate conversation, students explore big ideas like voice, community, and problem-solving in ways that feel accessible and empowering.

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Curriculum Conversations for Educators

Support for teachers and schools looking to integrate Ruthie for the People into social studies learning.

These conversations focus on helping educators use story as a bridge to meaningful discussions about democracy, civic responsibility, and respectful disagreement.

Contact for Educator Support

ABout the author

David Baumwoll believes deeply in the power of democracy - and in the idea that kids’ voices can make a big difference. Growing up, he was inspired by the value of “repairing the world” and learned first-hand about the impact young people can make when he co-founded the Student Movement Against Cancer (SMAC), a national nonprofit organization which mobilizes young people to take action. A former elementary school literacy teacher, David worked to instill a love of reading in his students, helping them discover their own voices and make sense of the world around them. Today, as a Partner at the law firm of Porter Thomas Grabell & Baumwoll, P.C., David continues his commitment to justice by fighting for people’s rights every day. Above all, David is the proud Dad of his two daughters, Olivia and Lianna, who inspired him to write Ruthie’s story.

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“Ruthie is a great role model for all the kids who read this book--she shows them how to make their voices count. It gives me hope for the future to know this book is out there to encourage young people to become active participants in democracy. It's well-written, beautifully illustrated, and entertaining--kids will gain valuable lessons without feeling like they're doing homework! -

—Sherry
Book arrived just in time for Election Day! What a wonderful way to introduce the topic of Democracy paired with seeing it in action in a way that is accessible, engaging, and inspiring for young children. The main character Ruthie teaches children that their voices matter, the power of connection, and the value of community. My children can see their own positive qualities in the characters and their development into agents of change.
My son absolutely loved this book and immediately asked where the next one in the series is. He can’t wait to read it. As a parent, I really appreciated how the story teaches kids to stand up for what they believe in and to have a passion for positive change. It’s engaging, meaningful, and sparked great conversations at home. Highly recommend.

—Sean
I read the first half of this book with my 9-year-old daughter, she had finished it herself by the time she went to sleep that night. She enjoyed Ruthie's story, we chatted about it a little the next morning. Days later, during a conversation about persuasive writing and speaking, she said, "Well, Ruthie would say that adding emotion to your arguments can be even more persuasive!" Ruthie has made an impact on her! A great story to help kids see themselves as change agents and active participants in democracy!

—Nicole