Michael J. LaMonica 
Illustrated by Jeff Fallow
 
The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution embodies some of the most basic rights and freedoms enjoyed by the American people—to speak our minds, to practice the religion of our choice, to assemble in public places, and to publish our opinions without government interference. And yet, from the early days of the republic to today, First Amendment disputes have been some of the most contentious in the courts and public discourse.
 
In First Amendment For Beginners, attorney and historian Michael J. LaMonica presents the history, principles, and court rulings that give practical meaning to the 45 words that make up this bedrock of American democracy. What are the limits of these freedoms? What happens when the First Amendment rights of different citizens collide?