The purpose of this nationwide writing project is to encourage the teaching of rights and responsibilities under the United States Constitution to elementary school students. The project also provides an opportunity to improve writing skills. The book includes 150 essays chosen from 1,350 finalists. Every school in the nation was invited to join in the competition. Essays were judged for understanding of topic, clarity of expression, unity of ideas, originality, and proper style and mechanics. In their essays, the children envisioned the Constitution in diverse ways. For some, it was like an oak tree; for others, it was a golden thread, an open door, or a firm foundation. Children who belonged to groups that have sometimes been mistreated and disenfranchised saluted the Constitution for protecting them from the misfortunes that befell their ancestors. A listing of the finalists by state is included. (SM)