A Book A Week

Carl Hiaasen has built a career out of sharp, satirical novels set in his native Florida—books that blend tightly woven plots, eccentric characters, and a dry, biting wit. I hadn’t read one of his novels in several years, but when his publisher offered me a copy of his latest, Fever Beach, I jumped at the chance to dive back in. I’m glad I did.

Fever Beach begins with Dale Figgo, a man so astoundingly dim he was kicked out of the Proud Boys—not for his hate, but for his stupidity. During the January 6th insurrection, Figgo proudly smeared feces on what he believed was a statue of Ulysses S. Grant. In reality, it was Confederate General James Zachariah George. For the Proud Boys, this was a bridge too far. Not the act itself, of course—just the misdirected target.

Banished and undeterred, Figgo doubles down, founding his own fringe extremist group, the Strokers of Liberty. Yes, you read that right. A band of conspiracy-loving MAGA castoffs who are united by their far-right paranoia and, incredibly, a shared passion for masturbation. This is Carl Hiaasen at his most unhinged—and, somehow, his most on-point.

Enter Viva Morales, a broke, newly divorced woman desperate for housing, who ends up renting a room in Figgo’s crumbling apartment. She works for the Mink Foundation, a supposedly philanthropic organization led by grotesquely over-surgeried billionaires Claude and Eletra Mink, who, behind closed doors, are quietly bankrolling the far-right agenda. Viva eventually joins forces with Twilly Spree, a wealthy environmentalist with a volatile temper and a tendency to cause public scenes. Together, they're pulled into a tangle of dark money, political corruption, and motivations murkier than a Florida swamp.

Hiaasen presents a rogue’s gallery of misfits and monsters in a sprawling satire of political chaos, personal vice, and pure Floridian madness. Fever Beach delivers everything readers have come to expect from him: tangled plots, outrageous hijinks, environmental subtext, and a parade of morally suspect characters. But in our current post-truth era—shaped by the shadow of a Donald Trump presidency—Hiaasen’s political satire feels more pointed than ever. And he doesn't hold back. Fever Beach is a blistering commentary on disinformation, corruption, and the cult of personality, with Hiaasen’s trademark humor cutting through the absurdity like a machete in the mangroves.

Is it subtle? Not at all. But it’s wildly entertaining. Equal parts screwball crime caper and scathing political farce, Fever Beach reminded me why Hiaasen has remained a distinctive voice in American fiction for decades. This one’s political, folks, and it’s all the better for it. Buckle up. It’s a wild ride.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2025, 39)

What’s in a name? In today’s divided world, even the act of choosing what to call someone can spark controversy. Pronouns, preferred names, who we love—everything’s a battlefield. For the protagonist of Make Sure You Die Screaming, the idea of choosing a name feels impossible. Recently, out as nonbinary, they haven’t quite settled on what they want to be called. But to be fair, they’ve had other things on their mind. 

Their cushy corporate job exploded in spectacular fashion. Their relationship ended in violence. And the head injury from that breakup? It might’ve left them with brain damage—or at least, that’s the story they’re telling themself. Now, they’re spiraling, numbing the pain with an epic bender, and waiting for rock bottom to show up.

Then comes a phone call from their mom with news that their ultra-conservative, conspiracy-loving MAGA dad has gone missing. Just the news to push them over the edge. Still, ever the loyal—well, something (son? daughter? honestly, even they’re not sure)—they pack up, leave Chicago behind, and head to Arkansas to figure out what happened. Yes, the car is stolen. Yes, their partner in this misadventure is a self-described “garbage goth” best friend with a mess of her own. But together, they hit the road chasing a mystery—and maybe a little clarity—through a country as fractured and bizarre as their own sense of self.

If ever there were a book tailor-made for this moment, Make Sure You Die Screaming by Zee Carlstrom would be it. Carlstrom writes with a unique blend of urgency and humor, holding up an unflinching mirror to our world and daring us to look. The result is electric. At times, it's chaotic, yes, but no more chaotic than the headlines we’re bombarded with daily. No topic is off-limits. Gender expression, family, grief, capitalism, romance, and friendship all find their place on this wild, cathartic road trip. The journey becomes authentically messy, filled with sharp commentary, biting comedy, and surprising tenderness. Make Sure You Die Screaming is bold, brash, and pulsing with life. It's a fearless, unforgettable read.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 28)

Bill Clinton remains one of the most polarizing figures in modern American politics. While his personal controversies once dominated headlines, they now seem almost tame compared to the scandals of more recent administrations. Regardless of one’s personal opinion of Clinton as a man, his influence on the political landscape is undeniable. Perhaps even more intriguing than his presidency, however, is what he has accomplished in the years since leaving office. In his latest memoir, Citizen, Clinton offers an illuminating glimpse into his post-presidency life, revealing the challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned along the way.

In January 2001, at just 54 years old, Bill Clinton was at a pivotal crossroads. His second term as President of the United States—arguably the zenith of any political career—had concluded, bringing an end to more than three decades in public service. For the first time in decades, Clinton faced a future without the structure and purpose of political office. Having achieved every career milestone he’d set for himself, he was now confronted with an unfamiliar reality: life as a private citizen.

Clinton's initial post-presidency priorities were dictated by necessity. While his administration had brought economic prosperity to the nation, including a rare budget surplus, his personal indiscretions had created significant political and financial turmoil. Years of costly legal battles left his personal finances in disarray. Clinton turned to the lucrative private speaking circuit, using these engagements to pay off debts and secure his financial future. While the speeches solved his immediate financial woes, they did little to fulfill his desire to make a meaningful impact on the world. Fortunately, opportunities to continue his life of service began presenting themselves just weeks after he left office.

Just days after leaving office, an earthquake devastated India, and Bill Clinton immediately sprang into action. Recognizing his unique position—armed with a vast Rolodex of influential contacts and a deep understanding of organizational and policy execution—Clinton saw an opportunity to channel his energy into philanthropy. This moment marked a turning point as he shifted his focus to charitable endeavors that leveraged his skills and connections for the greater good. Over the next two decades, Clinton built an enduring legacy of advocacy and service, redefining his role as a public figure and expanding his impact far beyond the political sphere.

While Citizen chronicles a man grappling with life after the sudden end of a career he dedicated decades to building, it transcends the standard political memoir. Bill Clinton writes with surprising candor about his post-presidency life, offering insights into his partnership with his equally influential wife and her historic presidential campaign, reflections on the enduring conflict between Israel and Palestine, and a direct acknowledgment of the conspiracies and controversies that have trailed him throughout his public life.

Clinton is acutely aware of the shifting political landscape, noting how citizens' priorities and societal norms have evolved since his time in office. Now, with the Clinton Foundation’s daily operations primarily managed by his daughter, Chelsea, Clinton seems poised for yet another chapter. He envisions spending his remaining years focused on family, particularly his grandchildren, indulging his love of reading, and savoring the legacy of his service. With this memoir, Clinton projects a man at peace with his place in history and hopeful for what lies ahead.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 89)

Reflecting on the impact of presidents throughout American history, it’s clear that some figures hold a particularly consequential place in shaping the nation. Their actions and legacies resonate through time regardless of popularity or party affiliation. Abraham Lincoln is undeniably one of these figures, a president who guided the divided nation through its bloodiest conflict. In Lincoln in the Bardo, George Saunders reimagines a small, deeply personal moment from Lincoln’s life, crafting an imaginative and haunting narrative unlike anything I’ve read. The novel captures the gravity of history and the intimate, human experiences that unfold within it, making for a truly unique exploration of one of America’s most storied leaders.

The year is 1862, and the Civil War has been tearing through the country for nearly a year, with mounting casualties and no sign of resolution. President Abraham Lincoln, already a polarizing figure, is under tremendous strain as he tries to unite a divided nation. Tragedy strikes Lincoln personally as he faces the country’s collective grief. His eleven-year-old son, Willie, fell gravely ill in the White House. Despite hopes for recovery, Willie’s condition worsened, and within days, he passed away, leaving his parents heartbroken.

Mary Todd Lincoln, overwhelmed by sorrow, is unable even to attend her son’s funeral. Shattered by the loss, Abraham spends countless hours alone in Willie’s crypt, confronting the enormity of his personal and national burdens.

Meanwhile, young Willie finds himself trapped in the realm between life and death—a purgatory known in Buddhist tradition as the bardo. Here, he encounters a menagerie of spectral characters, each suspended in this liminal space. These ghosts share reflections on their lives, contemplating their choices and the meaning they find, as Saunders intricately weaves their stories with Lincoln’s profound loss.

Finding a genuinely original novel is rare, but Lincoln in the Bardo is precisely that. George Saunders brings an unparalleled voice to this story, transforming a small historical fact into a profound exploration of metaphysics and shared humanity. The structure is striking: Saunders intersperses quotes from various historical sources, creating a layered tapestry that contemplates loss and grief. The bardo itself has a rhythm that may either captivate or alienate readers—I’m still undecided on how well it worked for me. Nonetheless, Saunders has crafted an emotionally resonant novel that reached deep into my own experience of loss, confronting sorrow while offering glimmers of hope. At a time when the U.S. stands on the brink of another pivotal political chapter, this novel feels all the more timely and significant.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 85)

Think back to the early months of 2020. COVID-19 was on the rise as a global health crisis, incidents of police brutality were escalating, and America was led by a president who stood out as one of the most polarizing figures in history. The atmosphere was thick with uncertainty. At a time when many sought strong and compassionate leadership, we found ourselves with a leader more focused on personal gain than on serving the nation. During such periods of uncertainty, it's natural for our minds to wander and ponder alternative realities. I found myself wondering, "What if things had been different?" Author Curtis Sittenfeld seized upon this speculative thought, channeling it into her novel, Rodham.

Hillary Rodham Clinton is one of the most influential women in American political history. Regardless of one's opinion on her political beliefs, her impact on the nation's political landscape is undeniable. She's a figure who has consistently evoked strong reactions since her days as First Lady during Bill Clinton's landmark presidency. While many are familiar with the disappointment of her 2016 presidential loss to Donald Trump, Curtis Sittenfeld has imagined an intriguing alternative history. In the novel, Hillary Rodham, having declined Bill Clinton's marriage proposal, chooses a path that diverges from her eventual union with the former president. This alternate narrative prompts readers to reflect on the potential trajectory of one of America's most prominent political figures had she taken a different route.

The initial sections of Rodham closely mirror Hillary's known history. We witness her early law school years, and indeed, her relationship with Bill Clinton develops much as it did in reality. In many respects, they make an unusual pair. Bill is exuberant and effortlessly establishes genuine rapport with people, often forming connections with those he's just met. On the other hand, Hillary is more introspective, finding solace and comfort within her tight-knit circle of friends rather than in new acquaintances. Yet, the two are undeniably drawn to each other, each possessing a brilliant intellect and curiosity that perfectly complements the other's temperament. Hinting at the public marital challenges they faced in real life, Bill grapples with infidelity in this fictional account, even as his political ambitions start to take shape. At this point, Sittenfeld's narrative veers away from known history. Bill and Hillary do not wed; instead, they embark on separate paths that will eventually intersect, but in ways starkly different from the history we know.

Within this alternative historical timeline, Sittenfeld's Rodham primarily unfolds. Liberated from her relationship with Bill, Hillary ventures into a political career where she seizes control of her own narrative, something she could not fully achieve in real life. Presented in the first person, the novel resonates with the authenticity of a genuine memoir, offering readers intimate insights into Hillary's political and personal ambitions. Sittenfeld provides a form of wish fulfillment, granting Hillary the opportunities many of us wished she had experienced. Much of this imagined narrative aligns closely with the fringes of actual history, lending the fabricated events a sense of credibility that makes them feel believable, even though they never transpired. Hillary faces many of the same obstacles she encountered in real life, particularly as she contemplates a presidential run. The challenges of being a woman in a predominantly male role are eternally evident. Sittenfeld adeptly captures the aspirations and frustrations of a woman poised for greatness if only the course of history would accommodate her. Although the conclusion may seem somewhat predictable, Rodham remains a captivating read that ignites the imagination.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 27)

The current news headlines vividly illustrate American politics' intense and dysfunctional state. While political contention, tit-for-tat exchanges, and a self-serving approach have always been characteristic of the political landscape, the emergence of Donald Trump elevated these dynamics to an unparalleled level. Author Robin Peguero is intimately familiar with this environment. He recently played a pivotal role as an investigative counsel on the historic Select Committee Investigating the January 6th Attack on the U.S. Capitol. Observing the hearings unfold, the entire spectacle seemed almost surreal, undoubtedly providing Peguero with ample inspiration for his latest novel, One in the Chamber. Having had the opportunity to review his debut novel, With Prejudice, a compelling exploration into the dynamics of a jury during a murder trial, I was eager to delve into his newest work. 

The novel begins with gripping intensity. On the eve of the presidential election, the nation is on edge. Supporters from both political divides believe a loss could signify a dramatic shift in the country's direction. On Capitol Hill, influential congressmen and their large teams of interns anxiously monitor the  election results. By night's end, two undeniable truths will emerge: a new president-elect will be chosen, and a well-known U.S. Senator will be found dead, the victim of a shocking murder.

Peguero rewinds the narrative from its explosive opening, taking us back several months before the fateful election night. Here, we meet Cameron Leann, a modest young man from Iowa who lands an internship position at the Capitol despite lacking significant funds or political experience. He soon finds himself amidst the grandeur of the Capitol building, about to serve as an intern for one of the Senate's influential "Gang of Six."

In this elite circle, Cameron is introduced to a tight-knit group of fellow junior staffers, each assigned to a different member of the Gang of Six. These twenty-somethings, diverse and representative of the nation's population, are remarkably intelligent. Diverse, though they may be, they all share a singular sentiment. Each of them harbors a deep disdain for their respective bosses. As the political landscape heats up, with debates surrounding a controversial Supreme Court nomination and the looming election, tensions within the group intensify. Alliances are tested, deceit becomes commonplace, and emotions are boiling. While readers are privy to the story's eventual tragic outcome, the journey to that pivotal night is equally tumultuous and riveting.

In One in the Chamber, Robin Peguero masterfully refines the character-driven storytelling and intricate plotting that distinguished his debut novel. The book seamlessly blends personal dramas, political maneuverings, and a gripping murder mystery into an irresistibly engaging narrative. Peguero offers readers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of the American political system, navigating its complexities without drowning the reader in tedious details. He strikes a perfect balance, providing enough insight into the legislative process to lend authenticity to his tale while skillfully grounding the more salacious elements of the plot.

Each chapter concludes with a tantalizing glimpse into the future, presenting snippets of the characters' interrogations following the shocking murder. This narrative device heightens the suspense, propelling readers to eagerly turn the pages. One in the Chamber evokes the suspenseful political intrigue of the show "House of Cards" while channeling the dramatic twists and turns reminiscent of "How To Get Away With Murder." The story culminates in a satisfyingly unpredictable finale that had me glued to the pages until the very end. Once again, Robin Peguero delivers a standout novel that captivates and thrills.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 25)

Let's address the controversy surrounding the latest Alex Cross novel upfront. A quick look at the cover reveals two significant departures from the norm in this long-running series. First, James Patterson has deviated from his tradition of single-handedly writing the series by enlisting one of his frequent collaborators, Brendan DuBois, as a co-author for this novel. Second, this new installment shifts the spotlight away from the renowned detective, Alex Cross, and places it firmly on his longstanding partner, John Sampson. In fact, Alex Cross takes a backseat early on in the story, leaving Sampson to confront the latest threat on his own. While this technically marks the 31st entry in the series, these deviations from Patterson's typical formula may align it more closely with Alex Cross's Trial, another co-authored book in the series that delved into Cross's ancestors rather than focusing on the character himself. Whether this newest book can be considered a true part of the series is open to interpretation. As a massive fan of the previous books, though, I knew it was only a matter of time before I read it. 

The United States faces a dire crisis as a series of brutal terrorist attacks engulfs the nation in fear and uncertainty. In response, the President assembles a task force comprising top security and law enforcement experts. Among them are Alex Cross and his partner, John Sampson. Exiting a pivotal meeting onto the bustling streets of Washington D.C., Alex begins to voice his suspicion that the patterns of these attacks seem oddly random. Before he can elaborate further, chaos erupts in gunfire, leaving Cross critically injured. Now, Sampson is torn between tending to his wounded friend and delving into the mysteries behind the orchestrated attacks. In this turbulent time, the lines between friendship and duty blur, and Sampson finds himself on a precarious journey to safeguard the lives of the Cross family, his own daughter, and the very nation he holds dear.

Cross Down marks a significant departure for the Alex Cross series. Setting aside the controversy surrounding co-authorship and the shift in focus to a side character, the book still carries a distinct tone and focus that diverges from its predecessors. This departure doesn't necessarily equate to a negative change, but it does introduce an unfamiliar element to the series. While most previous books revolved around hunting serial killers, this installment delves deeper into political and foreign affairs, granting the story a broader scope.

Patterson's signature short chapters maintain a brisk pace, propelling the plot forward and keeping readers on the edge of their seats. With the life of the series' beloved hero hanging in the balance, the relentless pursuit to thwart a catastrophic terrorist attack adds to the suspense. Despite the jarring shift in tone and focus compared to the rest of the series, these changes did breathe new life into the story. They offered a fresh perspective on Alex's family, allowing the characters to evolve in a way they hadn't in recent books. While the next installment appears to return to the tried-and-true formula that has carried the series through 31 books, it remains to be seen how this outlier will impact the series' future. Regardless, I am eager to continue reading to see what comes next.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2023, 78)

This is the time of year when every day seems busier than the last. It can be a miracle to cook dinner in the evening, let alone sit down to read a book. With a family wedding later this week, it seems like this trend will continue for a while. While I may not be as quick to spend time reading physical books, I almost always have an audiobook going. Last night, as I frantically rushed to meal prep for the week, I managed to finish listening to Patricia Cornwell's latest Kay Scarpetta novel. After a kind of soft reboot of the long-running series with last year's release Autopsy, Cornwell's twenty-sixth installment in the series, Livid, proves there are still plenty of fresh cases for Scarpetta to solve. 

When we first reconnect with Kay Scarpetta, the chief medical examiner is on the stand as an expert witness in a murder trial. The book's title comes into play in two ways. First, it describes the state of the victim's body, colored with the bluish-gray twinge that results from spending time floating in the water. Concurrently, livid is an apt description for the mob of protestors outside of the courtroom. You see, Kay's findings have led her to believe that the death of this victim was merely an unfortunate accident, not the violent attack of a spurned man. The prosecuting attorney is diligently working to discredit Kay, her science, and her already contentious reputation. 

Later on, Kay is called to the scene of an unusual death. The deceased just so happens to be the sister of the judge who is hearing the controversial trial that Kay was just testifying in. Even odder, though, is the sheer amount of death in the area. Not only is there a dead woman, but it seems that every living thing in the radius of the scene has suddenly died too. Kay is surrounded by dead birds and insects as if someone switched a button and eliminated all of the life around them. This is no ordinary murder. The means by which this crime was committed has huge ramifications that reach much further than this single case. As her life and livelihood simultaneously come under fire, Kay will have to pull all of her resources to solve this case and prevent a national security crisis. 

I've read the Scarpetta series off and on for the better part of 15 years. The books are at their best when they combine cutting-edge science with chilling mysteries, and Livid further proves that point. Rather than shy away from the timely, if a bit silly, political debates around the validity of science, Cornwell dives right into the thick of it. I found her imagined throng of protestors to be eerily reminiscent of the group that overtook the US capitol last year. The anger of those misinformed souls, both in real life and in this fiction, gives the entire story an underlying tension. Cornwell captures the uncertainty of these times with a precision that sees her characters racked with pressure. She balances this paranoia with a mystery that is rooted in a doomsday scenario ripped straight from the headlines. All in all, Livid is another solid entry in the Scarpetta series. 

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2022, 57)

Looking out upon the night sky, it is easy to get lost in view of the stars. Throughout history, humans have been fascinated by the stars yearning to know the unknowable. As much as we know about this giant blue orb we call home, there is still so much to discover. That's where people like Neil deGrasse Tyson come in. Dr. Tyson is an acclaimed astrophysicist who has dedicated much of his career to sharing his vast knowledge with the public at large. His latest book Starry Messenger: Cosmic Perspectives on Civilization sees the scientist attempt to make sense of many of the issues that currently divide us. He views these issues such as politics, religion, gender, etc. through the macro lens of the universe.

The problems that seem to plague civilization are nothing new. At least, they aren't new from the perspective of centuries of history and scientific study. From the start of the book, Tyson posits that the issues we face as a society today can be better understood by both understanding the historical perspective of those issues and by allowing the factual scientific consensus on many topics to help inform our thinking and actions on them. Through this thorough dissection of each issue, Tyson hopes that we will be able to think differently about the topic and maybe even come to a better understanding as to why different viewpoints may exist. 

I was instantly drawn to the idea of gaining different perspectives on hot-button topics, so I was pleased to accept a copy of Starry Messenger from Tyson's publisher. Tyson has a way of distilling complex subjects down to their core, making even the most sophisticated themes digestible to average readers. At under 300 pages, the book packs a lot of content into a light package. I found myself reading through a topic each day, taking time in between to ruminate on what I had discovered. Tyson's views aren't perfect, and even he admits that sometimes his words and thoughts don't accurately describe the nuances of the thing he is trying to speak to. Just look at some of his more controversial tweets as an example. Despite his clear mastery of the science behind many things, Tyson never pretends to have all the answers. Rather, he uses Starry Messenger as a means of getting readers to think more deeply and critically about multifaceted subjects. Only through this kind of reflection can we gain a higher understanding of our universe and the issues that we face. 

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2022, 48)

With each passing day, Americans seem to grow more politically divided than ever. Gone are the days of reaching across the aisle. Coming together for a common good is all but finished. No, these days the division is the point of it all. American politics has devolved into a tic for tac system that thrives on outrage at the actions of the other side. Yes, that outrage is often warranted, but it leaves the political system broken nonetheless. It is inevitable that this disconnect would make its way into our personal lives. I know many family members whom I don't see eye to eye with. It is this political/personal conflict that drives the action in author Grant Ginder's latest novel Let's Not Do That Again. 

Nancy Harriman is running for the US Senate. She's a career politician who has spent years in the public spotlight. She began her illustrious political life as the wife of a US congressman. After his sudden and untimely death, an incident that she continues to claim she had absolutely nothing to do with, Nancy inherited his seat. Now she's risking the comfort of that House of Representative position by going for broke and running for a coveted Senate seat. Winning would bring a much-needed majority to her liberal party and mark a pinnacle in her already groundbreaking career. Late in the campaign cycle, what looked like a sure-fire win is starting to look less certain. Her opponent is gaining traction and is leaving Nancy and her advisers scrambling to make up ground. With so much on the line, Nancy can't afford any missteps. 

Nick and Greta Harriman have strict instructions not to screw things up. They're used to it at this point. As the grown children of a US Congresswoman, they know they have to toe the line. Nick has always had a great relationship with his mother. He's a literature professor who is currently working on a musical based upon the life of Joan Didion. Being the gay son of a liberal politician has only helped prove his mother's passion for the social issues that her constituents care about. Greta has been less politically useful. She's smart and beautiful, but completely unmotivated to achieve anything. She spends her days working as a salesperson at the local Apple Store, perfectly content with doing nothing more. It comes as a shock to both Nick and Nancy when they see video footage out of Paris of an extremist protestor throwing a bottle of champaign into a bistro window. It isn't just the violent passion of the protest that goes against everything Nancy politically stands for, but the fact that the woman in question is none other than Greta! Nancy sends Nick to Paris to sort things out by saving his mother's campaign and his sister before it is too late. 

Let's Not Do That Again sees Grant Ginder write a novel that wears many hats. It is at times a searing political satire in the same vein as Veep or Parks and Recreation. Ginder relishes in showing political ineptitude, cynicism, and all-around disfunction. He dares to show the farcical side of politics,  a piece of the puzzle that is easy to forget about amongst the more serious and often damning revelations that have come out of our government in recent years. At other times, Ginder draws from the rich tradition of tightly wound political thrillers. Beneath the humor of his novel is the story of an intricate political campaign and the people working for and against it. To me, the book is at its best when it wears the hat of intimate family drama. Ginder's characters each stand on their own as fully thought out people. The relationships between mother and children, siblings, and young adults dating each other help to drive the action of the novel while grounding it in reality. In the deft hands of Grand Ginder, these elements come together to form a novel that is humorous, timely, and deeply affecting. Let's Not Do That Again is a novel for this time, of this time, and a book that will ultimately stand the test of time. 

Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this novel to review!

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2022, 18)

"Proof is irrelevant. Reality has become a personal choice, denial of reality a weapon."

The past couple of years has been difficult. I don't think you could talk to anyone who would disagree. First, there is the global pandemic, a health crisis that has stollen the lives of far too many people. It continues to ravage us in new forms, even as I write this. With COVID has come a host of other problems. People have lost their jobs, lost their loved ones, lost their sanity as they quarantine from the rest of society. And here's the thing, the pandemic isn't the only thing that's made the last few years troubling. Climate change has reached a point of being undeniable. Storms and fires are billed as "100-year weather events" even as they seem to happen every few weeks. We are at the point of not choosing how to stop climate change (most scientists agree that it is far too late for that) but how we will mitigate the impact of it. And then there's politics. For better or worse, the 2016 US Presidential Election and the events that have followed seem to have forever changed the way politics happens in our county. People are more divided than ever. Simply put, things have not been easy. 

Noah Hawley, an author well known as executive producer, writer, and showrunner of the hit TV series Fargo as well as for his bestselling 2016 novel Before The Fall, has lived through this reality just like the rest of us. His latest novel Anthem is set in a world that closely mirrors the bleak times that we have all been facing. Be warned, this is a dark work that doesn't shy away from some tough subjects. Suicide, sexual assault, and violence line the pages of this story, reflecting the grim state of the world. There were several times where the real world and Hawley's fiction were too similar for me to stomach, forcing me to pause and take some moments away from the book. Still, he presents a powerful and poignant narrative that forces the reader to reflect on the state of the world we share, thrilling us and moving us along the way. If you can get past the initial shock of it all, the book is well worth exploring further. 

"The adults are lost. We, their children, are starting over."

The children of the world are committing mass suicide. The adults are at a loss for what to do about it. Why is this happening? It could be that spending the last few years only interacting with the computer screen in front of them instead of with real people has taken the ultimate toll on them. Perhaps it is the realization that the world that older generations are leaving to them is in worse shape than what they inherited. Whatever the reasons, youth suicide has become an epidemic. For young Simon Oliver, suicide has been all he can think about recently. Not because he has thought of the act himself, but because he was the unlucky soul to discover his older sister's body. Since that day, Simon has been in the Float Anxiety Abatement Center. He's mostly unaware of just how bad things have gotten outside. Simon's internal turmoil is about to collide with the strife of the outside world in a way that he could never have imagined. 

In the treatment center, Simon meets Louise, a young woman who has a troubled past of her own. She tells of her time in the clutches of The Wizard, an extremely wealthy, Jeffery Epstein-type man who rapes young girls to fulfill his own twisted desires. Simon and Louise encounter another young man, The Prophet, who claims that God speaks through him, encouraging him to break out of the center, establish a utopia, and rescue the country. No small task for a group of troubled youth, especially given the state of the rest of the world. America is on the brink of collapse. Fires rage across the lands and in the souls of those who inhabit them. Through these everyday kids, we see this epic tale unfold before us. 

"The apocalypse, it turns out, is easy. There is no confusion, no uncertainty about the stakes. The world is in chaos. You must survive. End of story."

It is difficult to put into words what Noah Hawley's newest novel is. Anthem is epic in scope, thrilling at times, and difficult to grasp at others. The work holds a lens up to the world we are living in, making it impossible to discern where reality ends and fiction begins. Hawley is constantly shifting perspectives to various characters, showing flashbacks and present moments, all in an attempt to fully capture the world he is portraying. He even breaks down the fourth wall several times, inserting the perspective of 'the author' into the grand narrative he tells. Despite the large scale and complexity of this story, I never felt that the book buckled under the sheer weight of itself. Hawley is a master at a character study. He takes his time to ground each character, even the villains. This helped keep me connected to the story at each moment. I'll be interested to see what other readers ultimately make of Anthem. I'm guessing you'll either really love it, or won't be able to get through it. For many, the closeness of this plot to our present lives may be too close for comfort. Like most great works though, Anthem attempts to capture a time and place, chronicling our present history through some of the most imaginative fiction I've ever read. For me, that makes it a fantastic read. 

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2022, 2)

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I've always had an interest in reading presidential memoirs. Even as a high school student too young to understand every nuance of Bill Clinton's My Life, I could recognize the unique perspective of his journey and the decisions he was faced with that would impact not only his personal life but the lives of those he was elected to govern. Years later, George W. Bush's Decision Points helped illuminate his response to the horrific terrorist attacks on 9/11 and the lengthy military action that followed. Politics aside, I think that we can all agree that it's a lot to ask of one person. Every four years the weight of the entire country is set upon the shoulders of a single American. They are elected to guide the nation through whatever challenges and hardships arise, all while we look on and judge every move they make. 

If every President faces immense challenges and scrutiny, then the historical presidency of Barack Obama faced that tenfold. In his memoir A Promised Land, Obama chronicles his unlikely rise through community organizing and local politics to becoming the first African American to be elected President of the United States. He candidly recaps the great responsibility that comes with running a country, never shying away from the toll that obligation took on him. Intermingled with the sprawling geopolitical recollections are those of the quiet in-between moments of a man and his family. It is these moments, the kind that the public only glimpsed as he served, that makes Obama's memoir one of the most personal political writings that I've ever read. 

By all conventional wisdom, Barack Hussein Obama should have never become the President of the United States of America. Born from a biracial couple and bearing a name so different from those of his predecessors, his path to the White House is as unique as he is. He spent much of his early years in search of an identity. Guided by the idyllic vision of his mother and the more practical outlook of his grandparents, Barack gained a worldview of working hard and doing what is right for himself and others. This would form the foundation of his personal and political ideals and propel him to a life of public service. 

The lead-up to his election was nothing short of spectacular. Running in a crowded Democratic primary against the juggernaut front runner Hillary Clinton, Obama's grassroots approach to running a campaign was seen as a huge gamble. But his methods paid off.  He seemed to capture the enthusiasm of those he met, exciting record numbers of Americans to turn out to vote. His candidacy wasn't without its detractors, especially from the other side of the political aisle. While John McCain always came to the defense of Obama against the most heinous of personal attacks, a fired-up Republican Tea Party was out for blood, foreshadowing the political divisiveness that would cloud much of Obama's eight years in office. 

Even before his presidency began, Obama was faced with some of the greatest challenges of any American President. The country was on the verge of economic collapse, leaving millions of Americans jobless and in financial ruin. A bipartisan stimulus deal helped to turn the tides, but recovery would be a long and strenuous process that would slowly take place across his first term. And what a term it was. Ambitious initiatives around diplomacy, healthcare, and climate change were all undertaken as Obama also faced the challenges of unexpected political moments like the Deepwater Horizon tragedy and the military operation that would lead to the death of Osama bin Laden.

Barack Obama has always had a way with words, and the first volume of his presidential memoirs is no exception. A Promised Land sees the former president thoughtfully reflect upon the run-up to and the duration of his first term in office. I was struck by the huge aspiration that Obama approached his presidency with. And with good measure. He ran a campaign built upon hope and change, and a majority of the American population placed their confidence in him to deliver it. When he arrived in the Oval Office, he was faced with the reality that achieving everything he promised wouldn't be without challenges and opposition. He writes about the self-doubt that comes with trying to run the country in a way that aligns with his morals and those of the people who elected him. The book is wordy. Obama takes his time describing the details of each historical moment, giving due course to all of his decisions. Unlike other political memoirs, however, I never felt that the wordiness bogged down the writing. In fact, it only further added to my appreciation for the depth and care with which Obama devoted to his time in office. Whatever your opinions of his politics, I think that there is great value in reading a memoir like this one. A Promised Land brilliantly illustrates Barack Obama's devotion to family, country, and the American dream. 

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2021, 31)

Over a year into the pandemic, things seem like they may finally be getting back to normal. I've been working from home since March of last year, but I recently learned that I'll finally be returning at the end of this month. Last weekend, I traveled out of town for a wedding. Yes, the wedding was outside and masks and social distancing were practiced, but it was nice to have some sense of normalcy after a year that has been anything but. Like many of you, I've turned to reading to help me cope with the stresses of the pandemic, escaping into fictional worlds and exploring many new authors and genres along the way. Imbolo Mbue has been on my radar ever since her debut novel Behold the Dreamers garnered rave reviews. While I never got around to reading that one, I was happy to accept her sophomore effort How Beautiful We Were to review. 

Mbue sets her novel in the fictional African village of Kosawa, a place that is rich in culture and heritage. The people there are intimately connected to the land, hunting, farming, and raising generations of families on it. Although the people of Kosawa hold a deep respect for their village, the same can't be said of the dictatorship that oversees it. The government has partnered with American oil company Pexton, allowing the corporation to mine the village of its resources with no oversight. While this partnership greatly benefits both parties, the people of Kosawa aren't reaping any rewards. Pexton is poisoning their land and killing their children. Even boiling the water has little effect on reversing the effects of Pexton's practices. The young people of the village continue to fall ill. Many of them die. Worse, there seems to be no end in sight. 

With such a dire situation in front of them, the people of Kosawa seem stuck. Pexton sends representatives to speak with them from time to time, and they voice their concerns. Pexton reassures them that they are looking into the claims of poisoning and will work with the government to find a solution. But nothing ever comes from these talks. Finally, at one of these meetings, enough is enough. Resistance begins in the unlikely form of the village fool, a man most would ignore on any other day. He takes the Pexton suits hostage, promising their release only once a resolution is reached. Thus begins the multigenerational battle between government-sanctioned big oil and the small village. 

How Beautiful We Were sees Imbolo Mbue transport her readers to a quaint village in the middle of rural Africa. She tells her David vs. Goliath story through the people at the center of it, the villagers embroiled in the fight for their land and their health, and the children who are slowly succumbing to the polluted land they are being raised on. The narrative comes together through the shifting perspectives of the various characters, casting a wide net on the village and connecting the reader to the global impact of the conflict through the most intimate lens. As in real life, this story plays out over several decades, leaving some hopeful, others jilted, and even more ready for a revolution. There's a vast scope to this novel, and Mbue deftly touches upon the personal, political, and environmental impact of the situation by leaning into her characters with a careful sense of duty to the story and the people. While I found the writing to be brilliantly descriptive and engaging, I was a bit disappointed in the ending of the novel. With such a sweeping journey throughout, I didn't feel the story reached a conclusion that adequately encapsulated everything that came before. Perhaps that is the way these things end though. Wars are waged and generations of lives are altered over natural resources. In the end, I'm not sure we can really look back and say that sum is worth the parts. 

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2021, 13)

With the US Presidential Inauguration now behind us, I thought it would be the perfect time to read a book about a former president. In 41: A Portrait of My Father, former President George W. Bush writes an overview on the life of his father, the late President George H. W. Bush. I was immediately drawn to the historical significance of this work. The Bush family is only the second family in history to produce two US Presidents. Having the perspective of both son and a former president gives George W. an unprecedented insight into the life of his father. Less a political study and more a commentary on the man himself, 41 provides an intimate portrait of the Bush family patriarch.

As a biography, there's little surprise in either structure or content in this writing. The story of George Bush unfolds linearly, starting from his humble childhood and progressing across time. Like most men of the era, a strong family unit and fervent faith created the foundation on which the future statesmen would build his life. The early portion of this book reads almost like something out of a folk tale. I'm sure that the basis of this retelling is founded on truth, but I couldn't help but feel as if it was all a bit too perfect. I imagine that the author heard these stories from his parents throughout his own upbringing, so they take on the kind of second-hand feel of any story that was passed down from person to person. Still, the lessons that his mother instilled in him as a child would be the same principles that would guide the elder Bush throughout his life. "Do your best. Don't be arrogant. Never complain."

The book takes on a different tone as the author clearly begins writing from his own lived experiences with his father. You can't help but sense the pure admiration that George W. Bush possesses for both of his parents. Grounded by his unwavering faith in religion, country, and family George H. W. Bush approached each part of his life with quiet dignity. This duty to uphold the values he most cherished saw the man through fighting in a war, raising a family, facing the tragedy of losing a child, and shouldering the massive responsibility of running the country. Even after the crushing defeat in his bid for a second presidential term, George Bush conducted himself with the kind of decorum that seems nearly impossible in the current political climate.

This is not the average presidential biography. George W. Bush focuses as much on the quiet family moments that he clearly cherishes as he does the high-stakes political events that history will remember the men for. This can sometimes give the work an unevenness that readers of more traditional political writing may find jarring. Politics aside, I found the intimate nature of this writing to be refreshing. Bush Sr. never wrote his own presidential memoir, so this is the closest thing we will ever have to an inside look into his life. As most sons would write about their fathers, George W. often oversimplifies the governmental blunders and noble intentions of the late president. He paints a portrait of a man driven by the intention of doing right by the country he devoted his professional life to serving and the family he loves. As a political biography, the book is far from perfect. As a love letter from a son to his father, however, 41: A Portrait of My Father strikes all the right notes.

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.

(2021, 4)

With the United States Election day only days away, I went into reading Bob Woodward's latest book Rage with a pretty clear idea of what to expect. I read Woodward's 2018 book Fear in which he documented President Trump's tumultuous election and first year in the White House. To say the things uncovered in that book were disturbing would be an understatement. Woodward gained prominence as one of the two journalists who broke Nixon's Watergate scandal. His previous work covering Donald Trump was meticulously reported and backed by verified sources, public interviews, and cross-referenced records. Still, Trump reverted to his usual tactic of calling any unfavorable reporting on him "fake news". To be fair, Woodward was never granted an interview with President Trump, but all of that has changed in this latest book. Donald Trump granted Woodward 18 recorded interviews over the course of several months. Buckle up, folks. This is a wild ride. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has been at the forefront of most American's lives since we were first told to quarantine in mid-March. Despite various attempts to re-open states and get back to a sense of normalcy, our country hasn't been able to effectively lower the number of positive cases. In fact, this week saw us hit a record number of reported positive cases for a single day. Naturally, much of the political debate surrounding this year's presidential election has focused on the government response to the health pandemic. The bombshell of Woodward's reporting in Rage centers upon what Donald Trump knew about the virus, when did he know it, and what was his response. Woodward reveals that the President was warned about the severity of the virus in January. His strategy has been recorded and quoted word for word by Woodward. "I wanted to always play it down. I still like playing it down, because I don't want to create panic."

Beyond the obvious mishandlings of the health pandemic, Rage provides some exclusive insights into the President's strange approach to foreign affairs. Despite warnings from both his Secretary of State and Secretary of Defense, Donald Trump began a bizarre relationship with North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un. Woodward obtained letter correspondence between the two leaders. In the letters, both men gush about the brilliance of the other and their combined competence in forging an unprecedented relationship between their respective governments. It was widely reported that General Mattis resigned from his position after Trump took military action that was counter to Mattis's recommendations. While it ultimately seems like the worst ramifications of some of these actions have been avoided, it is the President's continued disregard for the informed advice of his advisers that continues to be one of the most disturbing parts of his presidency. 

If Fear was a stunning portrait of dysfunction within America's highest governing office, then Bob Woodward's Rage is the first-hand confirmation of those assertions. As Donald Trump's first tumultuous term as President of the United States comes to a close, it is one that will be more remembered for scandal than any legislative achievement. What I always find striking about books like this is that there really aren't any new revelations. Anyone paying attention is already aware of everything that this book confirms. As always, it is the direct quotes from the mouth of the President that are the most striking. Through the wide-ranging interviews that Woodward conducted, we see a man who is completely over his head in leading the country. Woodward says it best, "Trump is the wrong man for the job." It has been said time and again, but I'll say it one more time. Vote!

For more information visit the author's website and Goodreads. 

(2020, 45)

Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. Vance is a book that has been on my radar for several years now. Going into it, I knew nothing about it beyond the fact that many fellow book bloggers have said, "You have to read it!" What I found was a book about growing up, overcoming the odds, and understanding others so that you can empathize with their situation. At a time when we seem more divided than ever, I think that is the main reason why Hillbilly Elegy has resonated with readers of such diverse backgrounds.

The history of J.D. Vance's family is pretty familiar to that of most other American families of the time. His grandparents moved from their small Appalachian town in Kentucky to pursue the American Dream in Ohio. They hoped to find a better life than the one their parents had, and, on the surface, they did. J.D.'s grandfather was able to find a manufacturing job that propelled the family to the middle-class status of their dreams. A good job, car, house, and tight family should equal a great life, but the Vance's were having a tough time escaping the social norms of their previous life.

J.D. candidly tells of the addiction, abuse, a trauma that surrounded the majority of his upbringing. Despite all of their financial success, the Vance's always felt "other" compared to their neighbors. J.D.'s mother was essentially absent from his life. She struggled with addiction and a revolving door of men who only added to the strain between her and her son. Thankfully J.D.'s grandmother (mawmaw) provided a more stable, albeit unconventional, hand. She pushed J.D. to overcome the constraints of his family history to excel in school and try to truly make something out of his life.

J.D. went on to serve in the Marines, graduate with a law degree from Yale, and even serve in the political arena. Not bad for a kid from the hills. At times, I recognized pieces of my own blue-collar upbringing. Other times, I was shocked by some of the things that were considered "normal" for the Vance family. As I said at the outset, I think Hillbilly Elegy succeeds as shining a light on a section of the US population that often goes unnoticed. Vance does his best to avoid getting overtly political, but he also doesn't shy away from relating the values and cultural views of the people he grew up with to the rise of hard-right politicians. While I don't agree with everything Vance writes about in this book, I do think that his story is one that is well worth reading.

For more information visit Amazon and Goodreads.
(2020, 4)

"Let's go. Not enough hours in the day to save the country."

Haley Chill is no stranger to adversity. A small-town girl at heart, she bucked the odds and escaped the life of her town to join the military. Once in the service, Haley quietly rose to become one of the first women permitted to the infantry. On the side, she became a knockout success in the boxing ring. Through sheer persistence and will, Haley even beat out a future olympian in the final round of what should have been a runaway win. No matter what she is put against, Haley Chill is determined to find a way to win.

Now Haley is facing a new kind of challenge. She has traded in her military uniform for the business attire of a newly minted White House intern. As she enters the West Wing for the first time, Haley can't help but be excited at the chance to serve her beloved country in a new way. Yes, she's older than the other interns, her office is more akin to a crowded janitor closet with poor wifi, and she has some personal disagreements with the controversial new president's policies, but this truly seems like a new chance to make her mark in service to the nation that has given her so much.

Just as Haley has started to settle into the routine of her new position, things get complicated. She retrieves the morning security briefing and takes it to the house of her boss, White House Chief of Staff Peter Hall. Hall rises early each morning at likes to read the briefing before he gets to the office. Haley rings the doorbell and the seconds begin to pass. Already Haley knows something is not right. She walks around the side of the house and peers into the kitchen window. Inside, she can just make out the body of Hall lying motionless on the floor. As Haley rushes to call paramedics to the house, she spots a freshly left boot mark in the still falling snow. Immediately, she fears the worst. It will soon be up to her to stop the already moving pieces of a Deep State conspiracy from falling into place.

With Deep State, his debut novel, author and screenwriter Chris Hauty gives readers the first great thriller of the year. The prologue of the novel quickly endeared me to Haley as a character without hinting at any of the non-stop action to come. By engaging readers first with his character, Hauty imbues the novel with a depth and emotional connection that many thrillers brush over. Let's be clear, there is plenty of plot and twits to burn through and keep the pages rapidly turning, but it is the thoughtful development of the main character that truly drives the story.

As with any good political thriller, Deep State doesn't shy away from reflections on current politics. The president in this novel was a surprise winner from outside the political bubble who draws controversy from his "against the norm" approach to governing. Sound familiar? I was fearful that Hauty would use these similarities to preach his own political viewpoints. Fortunately, this is not the case. Instead, Hauty uses Haley to be the voice of unity in these divisive political times. Haley is not driven by the motivations of a single political perspective. Rather, she is solely focused on protecting the institution of government as a whole. Timely, character-driven, and full of action, Deep State by Chris Hauytty is pretty much everything you could hope from a modern thriller.

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.
(2020, 2)

It can be fun to look back on your past and see what things about you have changed. Beyond the obvious things (age, weight, career come to mind) I find it really fascinating to see how my taste in books has evolved. By reviewing and posting a review of every book I've read for the past eight years, I've got a pretty thorough record of how my reading habits have transformed. There are some trends that have remained strong. I can't help but get hooked into a solid mystery/thriller novel, for example. New trends, such as a newfound appreciation for a well-written memoir, have also emerged.

On the other hand, a change in taste has seen me turn away from the kinds of things I used to love to read. One noticeable casualty of this shift in preference has been the novels by James Patterson. In the past, I would treat each new Patterson novel as a "must-read" event.  His books have always been some of the most readable in terms of pacing, so I could turn to him as a reliable escape from my daily life. Whether it was the dwindling quality in Patterson's massive output, or simply an evolution of my personal taste in reading material, I now only routinely read his Alex Cross series. For years now, my mother has gifted me a copy of the latest Cross novel. In keeping with tradition, I've finally gotten around to reading Target: Alex Cross.

This one starts out with a plot that seemed like something more at home in a Vince Flynn novel than a Patterson one. A sniper has shot down a prominent U.S. Senator in the heart of D.C. Alex Cross is quickly thrust into the scene, and the evidence is alarming. It seems like the perpetrator is plotting to enact more violence against elected officials. A coup of sorts has begun and constitutional crisis is imminent. This goes far beyond the usual murder cases, the entire fate of the country is resting in Alex Cross solving this case. He must work quickly before he becomes the next target!

Here's the thing. The plot to Target: Alex Cross, like many James Patterson novels, is a bit ridiculous. That being said, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't completely glued to the pages of the book from start to finish. When Patterson novels work, they really work, and this one does just that. Looking back on my reviews for previous novels in the series (this is number 26), I usually comment on how the key piece to making the Cross story work is the investment we have to Alex and his surrounding family. Patterson strikes the perfect balance here between plot-driving action and developing the Cross family. Even if the story gets a little too unbelievable for my ever-evolving taste, I still had a good time with Target: Alex Cross. Bring on book 27, Mr. Patterson!

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.
(2019, 32)

There's something to be said about an author who takes the time to research their topic to such an extent that they are able to create a story that completely inhabits the world they researched. In the case of author Don Winslow, he's studied the intricacies of the drug trade on the Mexican border for over 20 years. Winslow has recently taken to Twitter as a vocal critic to President Trump's border control policies. Whatever your political persuasions, there is no denying that Winslow writes and speaks from a place of well-earned understanding and expertise. He may just write fiction, but he's lived in the worlds he writes about, studied the complex social and economic factors behind that world, and written some killer fiction in the process.

The Power of the Dog is nothing short of a masterwork. Attempting to summarize the plot or characters would be an injustice to the narrative that Winslow has worked so diligently to present. Imagine the best elements of a police procedural wrapped up with the crime elements of Sicario or Narcos, and throw in a touch of The Godfather or The Sopranos for good measure. That is just barely scratching the surface of the scope of this novel. Despite the multiple decades covered, crimes committed, and the sheer amount of character lines running through the novel, it never feels confusing or overstuffed. The story flows effortlessly off the page, a true testament to Winslow's ability to present such an intricate world.

At the heart of the novel lies Art Keller, a DEA agent who has worked the Mexico cartels for years. He is motivated to bring down the notorious cartel run by Adan Barrera. Interspersed amongst this main plot are the stories of a young prostitute, a priest, a Mexican cop, and some Irish mobsters. Each character is impacted either directly or indirectly by the drug culture or the fight against it. From the mid-1970s to the early 2000s, we see these characters advance through time and experiences that have inevitable physical, monetary, and emotional ramifications. It truly is an in-depth portrait of the cause and effect of the "War on Drugs."

For all the large set pieces and action, and Winslow spares no detail in his graphic and striking actions scenes, The Power of the Dog is ultimately an intimate character study and a conclusive referendum on the inner workings of both the drug trade and the fight to stop it. It is a true testament to Winslow's authorial prowess that the novel manages to cover such a large period of time and characters while still being the kind of thriller that you can't stop reading. Moreso, the depth of Winslow's research brings an authenticity that grounds this novel in a reality that is undeniable. Several times I had to remind myself that I was reading a work of fiction. The Power of the Dog is the first in a trilogy that includes The Cartel and this year's The Border. It reads as a complete work, but I can't wait to see where these characters go next.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.
(2019, 14)

With the dust of the contentious 2016 presidential election finally settling, Americans are beginning to look toward the 2020 contest. As the early stages of this election begin to come into view, potential Democratic candidates have started to offer a counter choice to Donald Trump's controversial presidency. It seems to be a prerequisite for each prospective candidate to publish a memoir that gives voters an intro to their family upbringing, political history, and hopes for America's future.

In his memoir, An Unlikely Journey, Julian Castro attempts to plant the seeds for his own political future. Castro recently announced his candidacy for President, so this book seems a bit inevitable. His story is pretty compelling. In sharp contrast to the rhetoric of the current President, Castro writes about the value of immigrants to the US. His family descends from Mexican immigrants, and he was raised with a deep connection to his culture. He witnessed the ways his family members worked hard and persevered to build their own version of the American dream. Moreso, he saw his mother's never-flinching commitment to provide him and his identical twin brother with the opportunities only a solid education could provide.

Julian has had an interest in politics for most of his adult life. He's grown and learned from each of those experiences. From student council member, city council member, city mayor, and finally head of the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, Castro has dedicated his life to public service. He writes about the challenges of those demanding positions and the need for balancing them with the needs of his young family. Ultimately, his most passionate explanations are the ways in which he eschewed personal gain for the needs of his constituents. Specifically, Castro writes about initially turning down a job with the Obama administration so that he could see a large education policy for San Antonio children come to fruition.

San Antonio is my hometown, and I remember Castro as being the first mayor I was actually aware of. His Pre-K for SA initiative still stands as a lasting testament to his commitment to providing a strong education to future generations. Despite my personal connection to his story, I'd be lying if I said An Unlikely Journey is a good read. He fell into the trap that many political memoirs do. His personal story is compelling, but his writing on political aspirations and specific policy halt any narrative momentum. Instead of coming off as an inspiring story of rising from nothing, An Unlikely Journey ends up being a mere clog in Castro's political machine.


For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.
(2019, 3)