Knowing more about the people who want our votes is always a good thing. One way to do this is to read what they have written.

That is what led me to The Truths We Hold: An American Journey (Penguin Books, 2019) by Kamala Harris.

I also have J.D. Vance’s book. I just get through audio books faster than print, which is why Harris’ is done and Vance’s is still in the pile to be read. Hopefully, that disclosure will quell partisan comments.

Only reading headlines and listening to sound bites does not make for an informed electorate.

This memoir was written while Harris was in the Senate. It covers her childhood through the Kavanaugh confirmation hearing.

It’s as much about Harris’ life as it is her beliefs. It’s personal and policy oriented.

Even though she was attorney general of the state I live in and a U.S. senator from here, it’s hard to know everything a politician does or believes in. It’s hard to know more than the substance below the headlines.

That is why this book was enlightening. I learned more about what Harris has done in her various jobs, I learned more about her personal life, I learned about her beliefs, her work ethic, and so much more.

Sure, a memoir is a one-side account of someone’s life. But that doesn’t make it any less truthful. It makes it personal. She was the one to decide which highlights of her life to share, not a journalist, or a biographer, or an opponent.

I would encourage everyone to get to know our current vice president better, as well as all the candidates who will be on the ballot this November.