Synopses & Reviews
Senator Chuck Hagel has long been admired by his colleagues on both sides of the Senate floor for his honesty, integrity, and common-sense approach to the challenges of our times. The
Los Angeles Times has praised his "bold positions on foreign policy and national security" and wondered, "What's not to like?" In
America: Our Next Chapter, Nebraska-born Hagel offers a hard-hitting examination of the current state of our nation and provides substantial, meaningful proposals that can guide America back onto the right path.
In America: Our Next Chapter, Hagel speaks the truth as he sees it—in a direct and refreshingly unvarnished manner. Basing his suggestions on thorough research and careful thought, as well as on personal insight from his years as a political insider, successful businessman, and decorated war hero, he discusses domestic issues—including the health care crisis, immigration, and Social Security and Medicare reform—and global climate change. He confronts foreign policy problems that the current administration has bungled or ignored, including China's growing economy; control of U.S. debt; India's and Pakistan's nuclear capabilities; and Iran's aggressive political, ideological, and nuclear stances. He decries the pervasive disease of third world poverty, arguing convincingly that this is where the real fight against terrorism must begin. Always true to the beliefs instilled in his childhood on the prairie, he speaks passionately about service—to one's country and to one's fellow citizens—as the path toward a renewed America. And, of course, he gives a candid examination of the debacle that is the Iraq War.
A staunch Republican yet a "hero to liberals" (Time), Hagel asks the tough questions and delivers straight answers to America's most pressing problems. America: Our Next Chapter is a serious, honest, and, ultimately, optimistic look at our nation's future, from an American original.
Review
“This forthright and surprisingly blunt book... details his public life as a United States senator and gives him an opportunity to ask some tough questions, and to make some tough judgments. Hagel has made his mark in the U.S. Senate by being his own man, a man above partisanship.” Journal Star Review
Review
“A leader and passionate advocate of dialogue and multilateral engagement, Chuck Hagels book describes in clear terms why the world needs enlightened American leadership. His vivid examination of American politics provides a rationale for future policy.” Kofi A. Annan, UN Secretary-General (1997-2006)
Review
“America The Next Chapter” is a powerful combination of personal reminiscence and public policy prescription. Hagel is an authentic and courageous voice--a principled Republican moderate in the finest traditional sense. Susan Eisenhower
Review
“[Chuck Hagels] is a true American voice, straight forward, pragmatic, full of the values that have made this country great. His book traces a course for a... more hopeful future for the country; it sets standards for the next generation to follow. A must read.” James D. Wolfensohn, President of the World Bank 1995-2005
Review
“Well-reasoned and timely . . . His approach should be required reading for anyone who cares about the diminishing ability of our elected officials to seek common groundand people everywhere interested in an inspirational American life.” Alan Greenspan
Review
“ He writes with insight, expertise, authority and with the credentials that come from his dedicated service in war and peace. . . . . A fast, solid worthwhile read.” Colin L. Powell
Review
“Senator Hagel is a plain spoken man from the heartland with a big vision for where America needs to go next - and how we can all help. This is a book for people who care about their country.” Tom Brokaw
About the Author
Chuck Hagel, Nebraska's senior senator, is serving his second term in the U.S. Senate. His duties include membership on four senate committees: Foreign Relations; Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; Intelligence; and Rules. Hagel and his brother Tom served side by side in Vietnam in 1968 as infantry squad leaders with the U.S. Army's 9th Infantry Division. He earned many military decorations and honors, including two Purple Hearts. A fourth-generation Nebraskan, Senator Hagel is a graduate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Hagel and his wife, Lilibet, have two children.