Tuesday, November 15, 2011

A Century Turns. New Hopes, New Fears. William J. Bennett

Let me start off the book is not a light read, it’s certainly not for the faint at heart, it is a solid historical look at the last 20 years of American politics.

The content of the book manly focuses on the term of the two President Bushes and President Clinton though he does touch on our current President. This period spans two Gulf wars, the troubles in the former Yugoslavia and the attacks of 9/11. But the book it a lot more than just the main events of the time. It really opens the blinds regarding what happen behind the scenes in some of the lesser know areas of American politics and give us new understanding of the most recent Presidents.

I would say that the author has done a good job of staying neutral and acting as an observer though-out the whole book. The author has the unique perspective of being involved in Washington politics but not being a central role in the stories he is presenting. The only issue that I have with the author is his lack of information with regard to his issues that occurred right at the end of the century. These "overstatements got him in no litle bit of trouble, however there is no mention of this even though it did have a direct effect on #43 as his term wound down.

On the whole I would thoroughly recommend this book if you are at all interested in current affair or politics as it paint a good picture of how we have got to where we are right now. I personally think the author has created a good follow up from his previous books, America: The Last Best Hope Vol 1&2.

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Review of "Rick and Bubba's Guide to the Almost Nearly Perfect Marriage "

Rick and Bubba definitely do it again - their reverence for the institution of marriage and the ability to make us laugh at ourselves mix perfectly in this "guide." Sharing their memories of early married life and some very funny experiences put you at ease immediately. Deftly handing a sturdy rope to those who may be in need of earthly help and are having trouble, Rick and Bubba let the reader know that while things are not always wine & roses, things don't have to be vinegar and thorns either.
Above all they counsel patience and understanding - both valuable beyond price in any kind of relationship. With these gentlemen sharing their "Oops" moments and then their "repairs" - some of which worked as hoped, some didn't - hehe. These guys make us feel like "one of the guys" and feel lighter, smarter, and happier because of it. As a first step towards working on yourself and alongside your partner, this read will help to adjust the atitudes and blinders that exist...