This book is for persons new to politics and government, or who are interested in becoming involved. The goal is to provide "e;how to"e; guidance and lessons learned that can help you succeed in public life. This is a "e;starter kit."e; I draw in part on my own career over half a century in Illinois and D.C.-as an intern; legislative staffer; state legislator; statewide candidate; senior aide to three governors of Illinois; state agency director on three occasions; campaign manager for a U.S. senator (successful) and presidential candidate (interesting); lobbyist; newspaper columnist, and professor (see bio sketch at back).