Through seven best-selling editions, Behind the Scenes in American

Government has been introducing students to individuals who constitute the

lifeblood of American politics, people whose lives comprise the "inside story"

of American government. And now the eighth edition, refreshed with sixteen

new selections, continues to show the effects of character and personality

on politics.

Exciting new articles include:

~ A portrayal of Lee Atwater, "the bad boy of American politics"

~ Garry Wills s consideration of Dan Quayle as a future U.S. president

~ A selection on contemporary black politicians

~ A fascinating account of the role of PACs in the battle for clean air

~ A political consultant s first-hand description of negative campaigning

~ Peggy Noonan s behind-the-scenes account of how she, a female

speechwriter, coped with a detached president and an overbearing

White House staff

~ A first-person account of a young congressional candidate who challenged

a well-respected incumbent

An Instructor s Manual, written by the author, is also available.