Maybe Sarah Palin is taking the time off to read a newspaper or learn about US foreign policy, the budget, unemployment, the location of our allies and other topics a presidential candidate should know about (“The Real Reason Sarah’s Skipping Out,” Rich Lowry, PostOpinion, July 7).

Or, possibly, she is trying to grow thicker skin or learn how to be a better mom.

K. O’Neil, Levittown

The Palin story has been a soap opera ever since she appeared on the national stage as John McCain’s running mate.

Palin wasn’t prepared to be a heartbeat away from becoming president in 2008, and she won’t be presidential material by 2012, or anytime thereafter.

What makes Palin run will continue to be a mystery.

Paul L. Whiteley Sr., Louisville, Ky.