I started and finished A Sense of Direction in one evening; I couldn't really stop thinking about it, so I couldn't put it down. I found it...
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I am only about half way through at this point, but have found this a gripping read - it's hard to put down and I am always eager to pick it back up again to continue. The buildup to Lincoln's nomination as the Republican presidential candidate, his skilled assembly of a cabinet, and the unfolding of the Civil War all emphasize not only Lincoln's political genius but his humanity, compassion, and good will. This is especially evident in contrast to his "rivals", as the author skillfully compares and contrasts their history, reactions, and thoughts, unearthed from personal correspondence. My former esteem for this President has been substantially enhanced by the intelligence, good humor, and fortitude he exhibited during tremendously troubled times.
This book is brilliant and for anyone who truly loves their country (not just their political party), it should be considered mandatory reading. Gelman is a fantastic writer, so at no point did I feel like I was wading through or bogged down by the material. In fact, I found the book so gripping, it was hard to put down. While I'm no fan of the Bush/Cheney administration, I was very pleased by Gelman's objectivity (I'm not into divisive partisanship, thank you very much) and this isn't a Cheney-bashing diatribe. The author sticks to the facts, talks to the key players, and has incredible source notes (70 pages worth), so you know the information's reputable and that he's done his homework and then some. The chapter involving Jim Comey will make your hair stand on end (we citizens owe Mr Comey the hugest of thank yous for his service to and defense of this country). In summary, READ THIS BOOK and get all your family and friends to read it too!
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shanna_jacobson has commented on (2) products.
Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln by Doris Kearns Goodwin
shanna_jacobson, December 9, 2009
I am only about half way through at this point, but have found this a gripping read - it's hard to put down and I am always eager to pick it back up again to continue. The buildup to Lincoln's nomination as the Republican presidential candidate, his skilled assembly of a cabinet, and the unfolding of the Civil War all emphasize not only Lincoln's political genius but his humanity, compassion, and good will. This is especially evident in contrast to his "rivals", as the author skillfully compares and contrasts their history, reactions, and thoughts, unearthed from personal correspondence. My former esteem for this President has been substantially enhanced by the intelligence, good humor, and fortitude he exhibited during tremendously troubled times.Angler: The Cheney Vice Presidency by Barton Gellman
shanna_jacobson, January 14, 2009
This book is brilliant and for anyone who truly loves their country (not just their political party), it should be considered mandatory reading. Gelman is a fantastic writer, so at no point did I feel like I was wading through or bogged down by the material. In fact, I found the book so gripping, it was hard to put down. While I'm no fan of the Bush/Cheney administration, I was very pleased by Gelman's objectivity (I'm not into divisive partisanship, thank you very much) and this isn't a Cheney-bashing diatribe. The author sticks to the facts, talks to the key players, and has incredible source notes (70 pages worth), so you know the information's reputable and that he's done his homework and then some. The chapter involving Jim Comey will make your hair stand on end (we citizens owe Mr Comey the hugest of thank yous for his service to and defense of this country). In summary, READ THIS BOOK and get all your family and friends to read it too!(3 of 5 readers found this comment helpful)