We are where we are in American politics, in part, because all these big-picture projects succeeded in enriching private interests … but failed to achieve their stated public goals. The “shock therapy” delivered to Russia midwifed Putinism instead of a prosperous American ally. The war in Iraq ushered in a regional conflict that’s still burning to this day. Chimerica worked out better for the Chinese than for many working-class Americans, and far better for the Chinese Politburo than for the cause of liberty. And the self-justifying doctrine of the present elite — that you can serve the common good while in office and do well for yourself afterward — became far more implausible when the elite’s projects kept failing even as the officeholders kept on cashing in.
Who are you, Calvin Bledsoe? by Brock Clarke
To sum it up in one sentence: It’s a quirky coming of age adventure with a dark sense of humor and a lot of John Calvin quotes.
Continue readingThe Bourbon King: The Life and Crimes of George Remus, Prohibition’s Evil Genius by Bob Batchelor
Prohibition – most people think this American experiment in outlawing alcohol sales and consumption was an abysmal failure. Not only did it encourage otherwise law abiding citizens to break the law, but it also spawned modern organized crime in this country. One of the early crime bosses was George Remus in Cincinnati. Bob Batchelor chronicles… Continue reading
Fuzzy Nation by John Scalzi
It took me a while to get used to a protagonist who is a first class jerk. But the futuristic set-up, supporting characters, and numerous plot twists kept me listening and held my interest.
Continue readingWhen We Were Lost by Kevin Wignall
All in all, it was an enjoyable read. Adventure, mystery, danger, and teenage angst and personalities all play a role. Wignall’s butterfly effect intro and outro even give it a philosophical spin.
Continue readingYou Should Have Left by Daniel Kehlmann
It builds the tension quite well and hooks the reader’s interest a burst of intensity and then has a sort of melancholy tragic ending. If you are looking for a creepy unsettling read with a literary touch, this would be a good choice.
Continue readingThe Chocolate Maker’s Wife by Karen Brooks
Brooks brings to life the time period. Her descriptions of London are real and vivid and helps the reader to easily visualize the scenes. She also captures the life of a mid-level noble family – the extravagance and pressures of keeping up appearances.
Continue readingThe Passengers by John Marrs
This book has Hollywood action flick written all over it. It is a unique combination of philosophical/moral conundrums and action. Lots of twists and turns and a plot that keeps you guessing
Continue readingThe Polar Bear Expedition: The Heroes of America’s Forgotten Invasion of Russia by James Carl Nelson
World War I is known mainly as a war that decimated Europe, especially western due to the length of the trench warfare. However, few Americans realize that their ancestors fought not only in Western Europe, but also above the Arctic Circle in northern Russia. James Carl Nelson addresses this topic in The Polar Bear Expedition…. Continue reading