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For years, many
Americans have become disillusioned with the state of the two-part political system that has dominated politics and government
for the past 147 years. With this dissatisfaction, there has been a remarkable increase in Americans registering as Independents.
In his book, ‘The Gathering of the Clan,’ author Thomas Richard Harry, delves into the important role Independents
could play in the future regarding the need for sensible and logical political change.
The foundation of
the book builds upon the premise that within the two-party system, the present two parties, the Republican Party and Democratic
Party, do not have to be the only choices in a country that is rich in freedom and possibilities. He explains that Independents
could provide a vital role of influencing change where there is a sound, rational, and logical set of democratic and capitalistic
principles that do not contain polarizing ideologies catering to certain segments of the population. Harry proposes that there
is a need “of a remedy to unequal representation.” He proposes Independents
“work to bring about balance in society.” Independents can do this
by adopting philosophies that “affect a different political outcome.” He states that “government must look
for solutions that ought to be in the best interests of at least most of the people, all of the time.”
Harry provides a
wealth of information on how the two-party system operates, and how extreme partisanship and extreme ideologies have failed
to make government work for most of the people, all of the time. He shows a clear disconnect with the needs of the people
and political self-interest. This has resulted in social, political, and economic disarray where a small number of people
benefit. He explains the role of Independents and provides a detailed analysis of an Independent philosophy that can help
resolve such issues as special interest influences on government, taxes, Social Security, fair wages, poverty, and the working
poor.
This innovative,
well-researched, and carefully crafted book that reveals a comprehensive and rational outlook on how to change the way government
governs. The most refreshing aspect of the book is that it is an honest and logical look at the political system and offers
ideas without resorting to extreme right or left social and political ideologies. Readers will gain an in depth insight into
the current two-party political system and how an Independent voice does count. The details and assessments presented will
turn the dissatisfied voter into a hopeful one. Many of the ideas put forth are well worth discussion and debate. I would
have liked to have seen a chapter devoted to the news media’s role in maintaining the status quo and how they prop up
the polarizing ideologies of the two parties.
‘The Gathering
of the Clan’ is a fascinating and compelling account of the state of politics in America and how one can adopt an Independent
philosophy that could affect much needed change by challenging the current duopoly with an Independent political party. It
is highly recommended to political enthusiasts and to those who have lost faith in the political system.
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When learning about
China from the news media, we
tend to only hear negative information about the Chinese Government and its practices. The bits of information we receive
tend to be political in nature. We never learn about the life of Chinese citizens. In her book, ‘Days Like Floating
Water,’ author Susan Edwards McKee tells a true story about her experience volunteering as an English instructor in
rural China.
After years of an
exciting military life, Susan and her husband Robert decided that retirement does not mean that life is no longer an adventure.
In February 1999, they leave the comforts of their home in San Luis
Obispo, California and go to China to volunteer at the Zheijiang Rural Teacher’s College.
Susan and Robert’s initial reaction was that of culture shock. Unable to speak Mandarin and faced with unsanitary
housing conditions and food that could possibly make them quite ill, they decide to put their uncertainties aside and become
immersed in the culture As Susan states,
“I may be
assigned to teach here in China, but that doesn’t mean I can’t learn, maybe much more than I can teach.”
This realization
became the foundation of Susan and Robert’s year and a half long exploration of the Chinese culture.
The story Susan
shares is one of embracing a culture without reservation or judgment. As the students congregate at Susan and Robert’s
apartment, they capture their hearts. A surprising revelation is the student’s
adoption of English names. Readers will meet Jenny, a liaison to foreign volunteers. Jenny is an independent woman who knows
how to get things done. Then there is Lucy, a shy but bright student who develops a passion for the keyboard. King Lake and Barbara are two young sweethearts who dream
of a life filled with love and happiness. Readers will discover King Lake’s anxieties about being accepted by Barbara’s family. Readers will not only gain an insight
into the customs of the Chinese people, but also their personal lives. The belief that education is the most important tool
to success is such a major part of a young student’s life that it causes intense anxiety resulting in stomach aches
and even cheating.
Throughout the story,
many myths about the Chinese people are dispelled. Readers will learn of the Chinese entrepreneurial spirit and that equality
does not exist in Communist China. Through emotional and uplifting experiences, Susan comes to her own personal realizations:
“I honor the
human spirit when it rises above poverty and connects with others and with what’s most important in a life well lived”
The descriptions
and attention to detail makes the reader feel as though they are traveling with Susan and Robert. As a bonus, readers will
learn of the changes and growth of this little agricultural community when Susan and Robert return seven years later to attend
Lucy’s wedding. Readers will also enjoy the many pictures of the people and places peppered throughout the book. As
well, there are a number of Susan’s paintings at the end of the book highlighting personal memories of a time well spent
in China.
‘Days Like
Floating Water’ gives an in-depth and personal account of a community filled with remarkable individuals. It is highly
recommended to readers who enjoy learning about other cultures and people.
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One
of the most famous and beloved baseball legends of all times is Mickey Mantle. Many books and articles have been written about
the sports hero. In his book, Mickey Mantle, Rookie in Pinstripes, author Fred Glueckstein, delivers an in-depth account of
Mickey Mantle’s life covering his early life to his 1951 rookie year.
Glueckstein
presents a comprehensive story of how events in Mickey’s young life, particularly his relationship with his father,
early teammates and coaches, as well as significant incidents that influenced and shaped him to become a baseball legend.
Glueckstein chronicles his childhood as a “shy youngster with blond hair and freckles from rural Oklahoma.” Raised in a family with a strong work ethic, readers will gain insight into the deep connection
Mickey had with his father and the trials and tribulations he faced and conquered. Not only do we gain insight into his personal
struggles, Glueckstein also shares the influences of such baseball greats as Yogi Berra, Hank Bauer and Phil Rizzuto. Memorable
events such as meeting Joe DiMaggio were both emotional and inspiring: “With Joe DiMaggio, I couldn’t even mumble
hello. It was as if you needed an appointment just to approach him.” As well, readers will discover how other baseball
legends felt about Mickey.
Along
with a very detailed account of Mickey’s childhood and rookie year, Glueckstein is able to capture the excitement of
the era making one feel as though they are reliving legendary moments in baseball history. What makes the story such a fascinating
and compelling read, is how much research went into writing the book which includes documented conversations, letters, pictures
of Mickey during childhood, and baseball stats. The book is skillfully crafted to allow readers to see a personal side of
Mickey that was burdened with such struggles as personal loss, overcoming weaknesses in terms of playing performance, and
the pain endured from physical injuries. Readers will gain a candid look into how the baseball legend was made with the strong
influence of his father shaping his determination, resolve, dedication, and the love of the game. It is an inspiring story
of never giving up on a dream.
Mickey
Mantle is highly recommended not only to baseball fans, but to readers who enjoy stories about sports legends that understood
that the driving force for success wasn’t fame or fortune, but the true love of the game.
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In today’s
world, war, violence, poverty, disease, starvation, and oppression, have become an unspoken accepted reality. These were issues
that Liberals once fought to overcome. In his book, What the Hell is a Liberal? author David Truskoff presents a candid look
at how liberalism has been successfully minimized by the powerful political “right.” The rich are getting richer.
The growing gap between the “haves” and “have nots” is increasing, and our natural resources are being
rapidly depleted.
The term “Liberalism,”
is defined as equality for all that includes such aspects as engaging diplomacy instead of choosing war to resolve political
turmoil, ending poverty, promoting free governments, advocating education and affordable healthcare…etc. Truskoff has
been an active participant and witness to Liberal struggles such as the impact of Dr. Martin Luther King. Truskoff provides
an in-depth account of the evolution of the relationship of the US with other foreign powers, particularly the US and Israel partnership. As well, he chronicles the influence of powerful lobby groups such as the American Israel
Political Action Committee, one of the most powerful lobby groups in Washington.
Delivered as a well-plotted
series of essays, Truskoff is able to chronicle how the evolution of the Right has successfully exploited and depicted Liberalism
as a negative philosophy to mainstream society. The book is not presented as completely anti right as he notes a number of
high profile figures on the left who have abandoned key principles of Liberalism for their own agenda. Truskoff points to
Senator Joe Lieberman as one important example of abandoning one’s principles and ethics. He discusses Palestine, without supporting the acts
of terrorism, but the apartheid type conditions the citizens of Palestine live in. Fundamental themes that emerge throughout the book are how the greed and indifference of
a select elite, with the help of the media, have been able to successfully change the dynamics of the world to everything
Dr. Martin Luther King struggled against. That is, there are people in the world that are now considered disposable and military
colonization has become an accepted method of resolving conflicts. Survival of the richest is now defined by Military Might.
Truskoff writes
with clarity, having witnessed the decline of liberalism and the rise of capitalism without compassion, morality, and ethics.
It is a very well researched and well written book that acknowledges this new breed of capitalism that seems unstoppable.
Truskoff explains that it is not and writes with hope. He points to our own need to learn from the past so that we can go
forward and adopt liberal ideas that seem to have been lost over the years. What The
Hell Is A Liberal? is an engaging and compelling read meant to open our eyes to our past, present, and future. Whether
you agree or disagree with arguments made in the book, it will definitely make you think and hopefully start a dialogue with
others. It is a must read for anyone concerned about the future of humanity.
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Terrorism 101 provides an insightful and educational read into
the "nuts and bolts" of Terrorism. Terrorism is not a new trend. Dr. Leon Newton shows that terrorism has existed for as long
as Governments have been in place. He points to historical accounts of terrorism that go back to such early periods as BC
334.
Terrorism 101 offers readers a detailed account of the history of terrorism, the role of the media and terrorism,
the historical roots of terrorism, countering terrorism, foreign policies and their influence on terrorism, and a historical
account of the formation of Al Qaeda. A thoroughly researched reference book, Terrorism 101 presents an enlightened perspective
on terrorism. An in depth Appendix and Bibliography provides readers with many works written by other experts in the field
of terrorism.
With so much written about terrorism, it is often difficult to research the topic to gain an understanding
of the motives behind it. Dr. Newton provides readers with well-researched and factually documented information that helps
one understand the various aspects of terrorism. It is a handy resource tool for those seeking to educate themselves about
the many issues concerning terrorism.
When reading the book, a number of important topics come up. The role of the
media and its ability to sway public opinion is one important concern. It would have been interesting to see a chapter devoted
exclusively to the Cable Television News Networks. The 24-hour news channels are a powerful tool in swaying public opinion.
For instance, when the subject of invading Iraq was placed in the public domain, the 24 hour news channels first tried to
show both sides, those for and those against. Later, a bias evolved supporting the pro invasion side, possibly motivated by
the thrill of accompanying the military during the invasion, which may have influenced journalists to stop asking the right
questions.
Much like the "war on drugs," the declaration of "war on terror"
and the use of preemptive strikes reveal an unrealistic ideal. The Preemptive Strike Doctrine only fuels the spread of Terrorism.
By addressing historical and current events, Dr. Newton points out that "modernizing a culture too fast can lead to a proliferation
of terrorists, as those who feel marginalized, powerless, and threatened," become easy prey for terrorist organizations seeking
new recruits.
Dr. Newton explains that military intervention alone does not stop terrorists.
In times of turmoil, losing one's rational perspective, diplomatic voice, and non-military methods aimed at preventing terrorism,
can only lead to the further proliferation of terrorists. We see this happening in Iraq. Terrorism 101 provides readers with
a rational and comprehensive guide to understanding terrorism and the choices that are available to reduce the spread of terrorist
activities with the goal of preventing such horrific events as 911.
I highly recommend this well crafted and well-researched
book to readers interested in a rational approach to understanding terrorism. It should be an added resource tool for all
libraries and personal reference collections.
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