2 comments about The Inaugural Addresses of the Presidents: Revised and Updated.

1. The Presidents' Inaugurals are worth reading. There are few similarities between them. Some recount history. Some are long, some are short. Some are eloquent while others use plain language. Some give specific policy proposals while others focus on the big picture. It is interesting to see what the Presidents wanted the country to focus on. It is also interesting to compare their predictions to what actually occurred. It is interesting that Warren G. Harding and Jimmy Carter both quoted from the same Old Testament passage in the book of Micah.



2. 'The Inaugural Address of the Preidents' is one of the few nonficton books I've read. I read it not wanting to be one-sided regarding books(most books I have read are fiction), and trying to get a clearer image on the presidents I have not known well. This book, besides the inaugural addresses, has a short writing about the president in each election. The inaugural address may be just an address, but it also showed the differing view of values of each presidents, while sketching the hitory of america, if briefly. I'm not an american, and so the vocabulary was a little hard for me, and it is of course not what you would call a fun book but all in all, it was a thumbs up.

5 comments about Red Azalea.

1. 
   From the start of the book the reader is enveloped with several odd concepts and aspects of communism and the Chinese culture that many may find simply odd. This is one of the books most fascinating qualities that make it partly likable. My problems with the book come primarily from Min's raw and almost poetic writing style. At times her simple sentence structure was a major drawback that led to a choppy feeling and rough delivery. I felt that her memoir would have been more appealing if she had spent less time dwelling on descriptions that were in many cases not necessary. Overall this book in my opinion deserved three out of five stars. I will undoubtedly recommend this novel to others for the reason that this story is one of a kind and at many points heartwarming.



2. Red Azalea is a compelling memoir, even though the writing is not always engaging. The prose relies on simple declarative sentences and often seems stilted. One observation follows closely upon another; thus, a description of setting might be followed immediately by a description of mortal danger, all in the same even, subject-verb syntax. You feel like you are reading a translation, and, in a sense, you probably are, since Anchee Min knew no English when she came to the U.S. in 1984, although the memoir was written in English. (Red Azalea was published in 1994.) Interestingly, she does not use quotation marks for a character's speech, but does use them for the numerous quotations from Chairman Mao, which has the effect of making Mao a powerful presence in the book. Two things make the book compelling. One is the sheer force of the events of the Cultural Revolution, particularly Min's depiction of her childhood and of her time on Red Fire Farm. The other is her eye for detail, like the bright red underwear hung out to dry in the spartan barracks of the collective farm. Min's recollections of sexual repression (and expression) during the Cultural Revolution are interesting. Such sexual puritanism is exactly what George Orwell's character Julia rebels against in the totalitarian society of his novel 1984, written in 1949, the year Mao came to power.



3. I'm not really sure what to make of this book. It was very powerful and personal. It's unlike any other book i've read because it something that has actually happened. The events in the book are mind blowing in a way that makes you want to keep reading. I would reccomend this book for someone who is ready to read a story that can overwhelm you.



4. I finished the book in 2 days...I could've finished it in one but I'm a student so I couldn't finish it as early as planned. However, I love this book! I love Anchee Min..she is definetly my favorite author. I bought almost all her books. One of the book I really liked is Empress Orchid.



5. Having read Empress Orchard I found this written in a more juvenile way. Perhaps the author was a younger and less sophisticated writer at the time. Good, but not fantastic

5 comments about Seventh Child: A Family Memoir of Malcolm X.

1. 
   Malcolm X was more than just a prominent civil rights activist. Amongst many things, he was a family man, a charismatic Muslim preacher, a spokesman for the Nation of Islam, a black nationalist, and the founder of the Muslim Mosque Inc. and the Organization of Afro-American Unity. He was controversial, influential, and often times misunderstood.
   
   It is unfortunate that many people today regard him negatively, as a racist, an apostate, a criminal, an extremist, or all of the above. But who is this Malcolm X? What did this man stand for? What were his intentions? And what did he accomplish? In this book, Rodnell P. Collins, Malcolm X's own nephew, addresses these questions.
   
   But this book is not solely focused on Malcolm X. Although he is the central figure in this book, Collins also writes about Malcolm's internal and external family members, and explains the impact they had on him, and vise-versa. Collins tells us about Malcolm's family background, including a little bit about himself. Personally, I found the story of the Little family very fascinating. I think readers will be pleased with the information Collins provides, such as the revelation of Malcolm X's first American ancestor, who was kidnapped from Africa and sold as a slave to the Little family. You'll get somewhat of a brief history lesson on the slave trade in America, here.
   
   Writing from an eye-witness account, Collins touches base on many important subjects regarding Malcolm's life; family, religion, politics, ambitions, etc. Collins also explains why Malcolm X rejected his Christian religion and instead accepted the teachings of "prophet" Elijah Muhammad by joining the Nation of Islam. Other topics include; racism in America, corruption of the NOI, Malcolm's Assassination, Spike Lee's movie, and much more.
   
   In the last pages of the book, you will find a few never-before-published letters from Malcolm and his family, as well as some disturbing letters from Christian extremists of the KKK.
   
   Although an excellent book, there's only one minor flaw in my opinion. And that is the author's tendency to sometimes over-exalt his uncle. For instance, he praises Malcolm for being an intelligent and open-minded individual who saw through the fatuity of black Christians and their faulty beliefs, which prompted Malcolm's conversion to Elijah Muhammad's distorted Muslim sect. But what about Malcolm's own fatuous belief that Elijah Muhammad was divine? Even after Malcolm X was well informed about Elijah's corruption and contradictions, he still had faith in him. I understand where the author is coming from, but I still find it a bit hypocritical, albeit it's nothing too serious and it certainly won't diminish the importance of this book.
   
   This may not be the most elaborate book on Malcolm X, but it's certainly a good one. I highly recommend it.



2. This was an excellent book which offered more insight into Malcolm's political believes and his work whith other countries which are hardly ever written about. It also made clearer why Malcolm left the Nation of Islam. The book helped to reinforce my belief that Malcolm X was the most sincerest leader in the African American Struggle.



3. This book gave me a greater appreciation of Malcom X as a world leader and a human being. I really enjoyed reading this book during a visit to the Middle East. If you are really into Malcom X and want to know more about him and who he was, do yourself a favor and read this book.



4. This is clearly one of the better Malcolm X books as it actually tells us something new and firsthand unlike so many other such books that glutted the market in the early 1990s. A bonus is the revelation of the name of Malcolm's actual African ancestor that he wanted to know about through most of his adult life (this was discovered by a family researcher. "Malcolmites" have much to enjoy and learn from here-buy it!



5. I JUST STARTED READING THE BOOK LAST WEEK AND CAN NOT PUT THE BOOK DOWN. I AM A HISTORY MAJOR AND READING THIS BOOK WITH ALL THIS INFORMATION ABOUT MALCOLM AND HIS OWN FAMILY HISTORY IS WONDERFUL.

   MR. COLLINS DID A WONDERFUL JOB!...

5 comments about Andrew Jackson: The Course of American Freedom, 1822-1832 (Andrew Jackson).

1. Andrew Jackson and the Course of American Freedom, 1822-1832 begins with Jackson's return home from Florida, where he served as military governor, and goes through his first term as president.
   
   There are many interesting aspects to Jackson's life covered in this volume, particularly his devotion to his wife Rachel and his devastating grief when she died a few weeks after he was elected president. But the part that I found the most interesting was how Jackson revived the American political system. In many ways he was the founder of the system we still use today.
   
   The 1820s are often mistakenly referred to as "The Era of Good Feeling." James Monroe was president, and there wasn't really any organized opposition. As Remini documents, there was very little good feeling involved except for those officials who were lining their pockets at the expense of the public. Needless to say, there were many people who were upset and alarmed by the corruption and saw it as a real threat to the American republic (remember, it was only about 50 years since the Declaration of Independence and less than 40 years since the Constitution had been written). These Republicans wanted to restore the two-party system, reconstituting their party along the old Jeffersonian doctrines. They soon hit upon the idea of recruiting the most popular man in the country, retired General Andrew Jackson, to run for president.
   
   Jackson was a military hero, but he was much more than a figurehead candidate. Jackson was also a brilliant instinctive politician and a strong, capable executive. But the rise of Jackson was about more than the candidacy of one man. The purpose, in Jackson's own mind as well as many others, was to connect his popularity with something large and more meaningful--the restoration of the republican principles of the Founding Fathers and a constitutional form of government that adequately protected the liberties of the people. Jackson built a party organization around himself that soon became the Democratic Party, the direct ancestor of the party that still exists today.
   
   As president, Jackson discovered that the nation had changed greatly in the years since he was a boy soldier in the Revolution, and he adapted his ideas accordingly. He became president of an America that had become a sprawling land with an expanding population and a dynamic and complex economy in which industry was increasingly important. Instead of limiting power, Jackson instead changed the nature of power, shifting it (permanantly, as it turned out), from Congress to the presidency.
   
   Before Jackson, "freedom" meant the right of the individual to enjoy the fruits of his labor without interference by government. During his presidency, freedom came to mean majority rule. A free society was one that conformed to the will of the masses. Since Jackson represented the people (something of a new concept), it followed that his program constituted their sovereign command--what we would today call a "mandate."



2. The second volume of Remini's celebrated biography is inevitably rather less intriguing than the first. While it's predecessor was largely about military campaigns and duels, this volume is more focussed on such dynamic topics as debt repayment and, especially, the controversy over renewing the charter of the US Bank.

   The controversial election of 1824 is covered in detail and well explained. Remini also shows how the aftermath of that election reshaped American politics - the parties became far more organized. Although the Democratic Party is spoken of as having been created by Jefferson, Jefferson was the leader of a group or faction more than a true party. In a real sense it was created as a party when Calhoun and Van Buren agreed to unite their factions behind Jackson for the election of 1828. The new era of national parties was illustrated in 1831-32, when, for the first time, national conventions were held to nominate presidential candidates. (The Democrats were so firmly Jackson's party that they didn't bother to formally nominate him, meeting mainly to ratify his desire that Van Buren replace Calhoun as the Vice Presidential candidate.)

   Also covered at length is the bizarre 'War of the Petticoats', when Jackson's cabinet was torn apart over the fact that some officials and their wives, spreading lascivious rumors about Peggy Eaton, wife of the Secretary of War, refused to appear at social events to which the Eatons were invited. However absurd the incident sounds, the consequences were significant.

   Along the way, I learned quite a few things ranging from remarkable to trivial. For instance, I had never suspected that Jackson was the first President to veto a bill with a veto message that centered on what he believed to be the faults of the bill. All prior vetos (there were only a few over 40 years) had been based on arguments that the bills vetoed were unconstitutional. Vetoing partially on the merits (Jacvkson also thought the bill unconstitutional) was considered at the time a shocking extension of executive power. I also learned that Jackson had the first 'kitchen cabinet', a term that dates from the tensions in the cabinet over the Petticoat War. The kitchen cabinet, those friends who Jackson trusted more than many of the men in his official cabinet (also called the 'parlor cabinet' at the time) was so called because they supposedly used a back staircase from the White House kitchen to meet Jackson in his study.

   Overall, a strong history with clear writing, a remarkable central character, and intriguing glimpses at the period covered.




3. This is the second book in Remini's trilogy and it's an extremely detailed, well-researched book. So many biographers bury their subject and forget that most readers what to know who their subject *was*, not merely what they *did.* Remini doesn't fall into this trap. He gives the reader a well-grounded and detailed look at Andrew Jackson as a man: his foibles, passions and prejudices, as well as his extreme ambition and vacillating brilliance.

   Remini strikes a beautiful balance when examining Jackson's private life and military/political life. His examination of Jackson's personal life is exceptional, and he weaves Jackson in and out of the narrative with rare poise and skill. The reader can actually picture Jackson in the midst of his political battles, feel his emotions and understand the decisions he made. When a biographer can paint such a vivid picture, the reader will always be rewarded.

   This is an excellent book for the entire spectrum of people interested in Jackson. Whether you are a neophyte or an established Jacksonian historian, there is much to enjoy, as well as new material. The footnotes and bibliography are excellent resources and lead to additional sources for the reader. Highly recommended.




4. When we last left Andrew Jackson, he had just quit his job as governor of the Florida territory. Having built his reputation on his military actions against Indians and his rout over the British in the Battle of New Orleans, Jackson now had two goals: first, recovering his precarious health, and second, becoming president.

   In this second volume of Remini's biography of the seventh president, Jackson rises to the pinnacle of his power, though it is by no means easy. First, there is his health: having abused his body over the years in war and duels, Jackson was not in good shape and probably spent the last decades of his life in constant pain which only his vast willpower could overcome.

   In 1824, Jackson ran for president and despite getting a plurality of the popular and electoral votes, wound up losing to John Quincy Adams that makes the 2000 election seem non-controversial in comparison. Getting cheated (as many felt) would lead to a second, successful campaign in 1828, but even this had a high price, as the slander he was subjected to due to the dubious circumstances of his marriage would emotionally wreck and eventually lead to the death of his wife.

   The second half of the book focuses on Jackson's first presidential term, ending with his election to a second term. In many ways the first populist president, Jackson redefined the role of the presidency by expanding the power of the veto (rarely used previously and only in limited circumstances) and attempted to clean up the corruption left over from the so-called "Era of Good Feelings."

   Remini is a great biographer and this book is every bit as great as the first volume. He holds back few punches when it comes to Jackson's negatives, especially his treatment of Indians and his tendency to dwell incessantly on little things (such as the Eaton affair). Nonetheless, this is a generally positive biography, as Remini demonstrates that despite the view that Jackson was an ignorant backwoodsman manipulated by his aides such as Van Buren, Jackson was both intelligent and independent.

   This is the definitive biography of Jackson. If you want to learn of the man or the era, this is a must-read.




5. In this, the second (and shortest) installation of three volumes on the life of Andrew Jackson, Robert Remini covers the decade between Jackson�s ostensible retirement from public life after serving a short � and miserable � term as governor of the newly acquired Florida territory to the culmination of his first presidential term.

   The central issue covered in this volume � indeed, the central issue in Jackson�s political life, as Remini later concludes in Volume III � is the presidential election of 1824 and the so-called �corrupt bargain� between John Quincy Adams and Henry Clay to deprive Jackson of the presidency despite his commanding lead in the popular vote. For Jackson, it was conspiracy of the wealthy elites against a commoner, and it proved that the American republic itself was in mortal jeopardy. The defeat served as a catalyst for Jackson�s passionate, almost obsessive commitment to �reform and retrenchment,� which Remini weaves together with the character developed in Volume I. It was his quest to avenge the loss of 1824 (and the honor of the American people who had been swindled) and sweep the �augean stables� of corruption and graft in Washington that led to the great democratic movement that bears his name. (It should be noted that Harry Ammon and other leading historians of the Monroe and Adams administrations stridently contest Remini�s assertion that the Era of Good Feelings was actually the �Era of Corruption.�)

   For those of you who puzzled over Washington�s obsession with the Monica Lewinsky affair, you will be amused to read that the dominating issue of Jackson�s first term was the reportedly lascivious nature of Peggy Eaton, the wife of Jackson's old friend and secretary of war. This so-called �Petticoat War,� which saw the wives of other cabinet members and senior officials � mostly notably vice president Calhoun�s wife, Floride � shunning social interaction with Peggy, literally ripped the cabinet asunder and very nearly toppled the government. Remini tells the story with verve and wit, which at times reads more like a Sidney Sheldon novel than a volume in a definitive presidential biography.

5 comments about Dossier: The Secret History of Armand Hammer.

1. There exists an unusually wide breadth of opinions about Armand Hammer -- he almost won the Nobel Peace Prize, and is revered by those who have benefited from his charitable endeavors, yet is excoriated by the political right. The latter group became particularly vocal in the United States around 2000, as Hammer's ties to Al Gore's father became fodder for talk-radio rumor mongering in that year's presidential election.
   
   Dossier is the only biography of Hammer written with reference to both the U.S. government's records on the man, made available under the Freedom of Information Act after he died, and Soviet records, made available after the collapse of the U.S.S.R. It is therefore the only book that comes close to explaining the nature of Hammer's ties to the Soviet Union. (Spoiler: In the early 1920s, he set up some companies that were used as channels by the Soviets for financing secret operations abroad).
   
   Unfortunately, Epstein was not satisfied with these records, and turns to some really marginal sources to sex up the story. The book contains a number of particularly shocking accusations that, if you follow through the footnotes, all come from a woman who claims to have been Hammer's mistress, decades ago. Take for example Epstein's rendition of the well-known 1920 conviction of Hammer's father for manslaughter. Hammer's father had performed an abortion after which the woman had died. Among those who testified at the trial were the woman's maid, who had been present when the operation took place. Every other source on Hammer treats this as the start of Hammer's business career -- with his father incarcerated, Hammer had to take the reins of the family business.
   
   Epstein, on the other hand, writes that it was the 21-year-old *Hammer himself* who had committed the abortion, not his father, and that he had allowed his father to go to jail for the crime. Epstein bases this remarkable claim on the 1990s recollection of a woman who claimed to have been Hammer's mistress in the 1950s, and who said that Hammer confessed to this crime (along with a string of other appalling things) to her. He ignores the fact that much more credible contemporary witnesses testified to the contrary.
   
   Repeatedly in the book, Epstein takes credit for "discovering" things that have been widely known for decades, and which are discussed in detail in previous Hammer biographies. Meanwhile, his discussion of Hammer's 70-year-long business career is cursory.
   
   If you do read the book, be sure to check the footnotes on any novel claim; some of the sources are really weak. See Weinberg's biography of Hammer for a much better treatment of everything except the early Soviet material.



2. This book is a biography about an american oil mogul:Armand Hammer.The author is a jew, as the biographed.
   If you read this book, you will see a true:marxism(leftism, eugenicism, environmentalism, feminism, etc.) is something for millionaries.
   Hammer got a fortune linking to former Soviet Union's interests.Then he went to oil business.Again he linked his oil business to Lybia, even to Khadafy money.
   Defects of this book are small.I don't believe ,that Al Gore had school's payment from Hammer.Another problem,of this book,is to forget that Hammer was a little linked to eugenics movement, at least until Hitler's time in 1933.These are small problems.This book is good.



3. Mr. Epstein places a great work on to the life of Armand Hammer. Many individuals wonder how such a man, whom was red flagged by the CIA, could remain connected to each and every Presidential administration and Kremlin since the days of Lenin. I was hoping for more information on their dealings with Robert Maxwell but it was only mentioned in brief. Hammer, like is father, presented to the public as immensely wealthy and powerful individuals, yet reality had dictated the opposite. Hammer, a man in quest for power, could have taken the time to do good things but instead he worked to expand not only his own personal image/power but to keep the secret line open to advance the Communist movement. I'd also recommend "The Perestroika Deception" - A. Golitsyn.



4. ~Dossier: The Secret History of Armand Hammer~ chronicles the life and despondent character of Armand Hammer. In his later life, Hammer invested great time and sizable resources to get a favorable authorized biography that portrayed himself as a generous, urbane and cultured philanthropist. Hammer no doubt would be dismayed by Epstein's account, though he never lived to see it. Epstein chronicles a different Armand Hammer. Epstein draws a picture of a power hungry man with an unscrupulous character. The real Armand Hammer led a life corrupted by avarice, adulterous sexual escapades and notoriously unscrupulous dealings with the Soviet Union and American politicians. Epstein by implication shows that Hammer may very well have been a Soviet agent. Hammer was in Bolshevik Russia while the revolutionary hadn't quite settled down. Hammer got a trade concession for a pencil factory that he operated in Moscow. While in the Soviet Union he moonlighted with Lenin and other Bolshevik revolutionaries. Hammer soon left Russia and supposedly almost went insolvent. His questionable business dealings in Europe perhaps as a launderer for Soviet enterprise to fund covert operations abroad would eventually gained the watchful eye of American authorities. Hammer got into art dealing and liquor distilling, but never lost his Soviet ties. He would eventually become the target of scrutiny by J. Edgar Hoover's FBI who took interest in his domestic and overseas machinations. While Hammer was the target of American counterintelligence, he ironically made use of his own intelligence clique especially later in life; he hired detectives, spies and former government agents to acquire information while manipulating business partners, competitors and politicians for personal gain. Hammer rose to fame as the Occidental Petroleum mogul and continued his shady dealings. Though, he tried to break into the market of the Seven Sisters oil cartel by getting an oil concession in Libya. His unscrupulous and devious dealings included bribery of foreign countries for trade concessions. Having lived a life of infamy, in his twilight years, the billionaire labored tediously to cultivate a favorable personal image. Hammer would have liked to have been remembered as a wealthy, cultured, humanitarian and religious Jew. Then Epstein came along to tell the real story.
   
   This secret history is a window into the world of Armand Hammer: Hammer was an unscrupulous man, disloyal to his country, who put greed and power above family and nation. Epstein's conclusion is almost irresistible, yet he is never so obvious enough to state it: Hammer was a selfish opportunist who should have spent a substantial part of his life in a federal penitentiary.



5. Biographer Epstein does a straightforward, almost journalistic description of the life and times of Armand Hammer, considered by many to be a man of vision, humanity, and charity until details of his life began to seep out following his death. Even the New York Times gave this man a glowing obituary. But, thanks to the tremendous research done by Epstein, we see Hammer for what he was: an evil, self-serving, egomanic. And Epstein's non-sensational telling of the details of Hammer's life is appropriate; it is unnecessary to augment beyond the notoriousness of Hammer's own actions. What Hammer did speaks for itself, and Epstein catalogues his many sins. He was a traitor to his country, his family, his friends. He was such a lowlife that he allowed his father to go to prison for crime he, the son, committed. He was a perpetual adulterer. He laundered millions of dollars and had secret accounts everywhere. He drove what most believed to be a successful company to the brink of bankruptcy. But I could have done without the incessant mini-flashbacks that kept creeping into the narration. And I think it was a really bad choice to begin the book with the prologue describing Hammer's final days. It would work much better at the end, as this failure of a human being tops himself while he is dying with malicious, coniving, and deceitful steps to preserve his false characterization upon his passing. I would strongly recommend that you read the prologue at the end of the book. I would also suggest that as you finish each chapter, you turn to the source notes for that chapter and be amazed by the research Epstein did to compile his facts. He paints Hammer as such a dispicable character, that you will be astounded that this character got away with his ruse for his entire life. In this day of rotten corporate big-business, the book shows the rot has been going on for decades.

5 comments about Robert C. Byrd: Child Of The Appalachian Coalfields.

1. An autobiography this book surely is. all 770 pages! I read it with great interest from beginning to end, tho it is a heavy book and could have been shortened considerably.
   
   Senator Byrd published this memoir in 2005 at the age of 87. As a West Virginia senator in Washington, DC. for more than 50 years, he is well qualified to inform us of the workings of government. He manages to convey the story of his entire life and career, as he witnessed and helped shaped American history.
   
   The book is very readable and filled with opinions on most all subjects. Several pictures are appreciated as the reader digests 87 years in the making of a fine gentlemen who, as an orator, a historian, a debator, and a patriotic American, as well as a proud West Virginian, is respected and who inspires us to reach out and make a difference in our corner of the world.
   
   Of course, if you are from the beautiful state of West Virginia, or know someone who is, or have relatives there, or live in neighboring states, or if you, like me, just enjoy learning how our legislative branch has evolved, especially the past half century, you'll enjoy this book also. You may want to visit the
   state aptly nicknamed "Mountain Mama" and drive on the highways Senator Byrd helped fund, see the schools and industries named after him, and the bridges, tourist attractions, etc. etc. with his stamp of approval. If it were not for him, a native son who was raised near the coal mines, attended a two room schoolhouse, and worked his way up from a butcher to a senator who "delivered" to his state, we would not be appreciating the wonders of West Virginia, as John Denver portrays in his song "Country Roads".
   
   I was impressed with Senator Byrd's insights. His campaigns over the years had a unique flavor - he played the fiddle and sang mountain music, visited, enjoyed, and helped fund useful projects in every county in his state, made some mistakes, learned from them, and grew into a skillful politician with an attitude - to stand up for what is right, to uphold the Constitution, and to keep America one nation, under God.
   
   I learned a great deal from reading the book and perhaps you will ask legislators from your own state "What have YOU done for us lately!" - It appears to me that Robert C. Byrd, a proud super intelligent West Virginian will be a tough act to follow. Americans will do well to get on the websites of state legislators and voice their concerns.
   
   Incidentally, this reviewer is not from West Virginia, tho I have visited there and studied the history and people. It is a great state for geneology purposes with beautiful websites for every county. Its citizens can be proud and grateful that Senator Byrd's loyalty, influence, support, courage, and calm reasoning has never wavered and that when he speaks before the senate, and to presidents and leaders all over the world, they listen attentively.



2. Although the Democrats pride themselves on civil rights issues (never mind that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was passed due to Republicans, not Democrats, who were opposed) they have a lot of 'splainin to do. Apparently, the KKK was "a fraternal group of elites - doctors, lawyers, clergy, judges and other 'upstanding' people". Wow! That's neat... I wonder if anyone will question Senator Byrd about this. People ignored his comments that "(...)", so I suppose he'll get a pass on this, too.
   The next time you hear about those "racist Republicans", ask yourself, which party has the dubious honor of having a real life Klansman as their leader in the senate.



3. I was a little hesitant to buy a biography of over 800 pages. However, I was quite surprised by the content and layout. Although the book is divided into chapters dealing with specific areas of Senator Byrd's life, the narrative is more along the lines of storytelling. I have enjoyed the fact that the format is in small little stories; a motivator to complete a book of this size.
   
   This is an enjoyable, well written book. Although I am originally from West Virginia and thus hold a stronger interest for Senator Byrd, I believe that many will enjoy learning about one of our country's most interesting Senators. Yes, this book does confront the fact that Senator Byrd was in the KKK, unlike what is said in other reviews.



4. Sent this book to my 89 year old dad who knows Mr. Byrd and who also ran several coal mines in the 50's. So much of the book is true to every detail - this book tells of a time of hard work, good people, company ownership of it's employees, labor unions, and of times that only few know. It is a very pure piece of American History.



5. Without Robert C. Byrd, West Virginia would not be what it is today. That may be a weird statement, seeing it isn't much now, but it would be nothing. Senator Byrd lobbied hard to get funding for a state the nation forgot about. Robert C. Byrd helped propel West Virginia into a state now gaining national recognition (President Bush likes it for a 4th of July stop). Like him or hate him, you got to respect the man.

5 comments about The Undiscovered Paul Robeson , An Artist's Journey, 1898-1939.

1. For those of us who knew only that this great and gifted Renaissance man had fallen out of political favor of a paranoid United States, this is a great opportunity to see who he really was. Written by his son, this first volume study of Paul Robeson's life is replete with photographs, diary entries, and correspondence of the type only a family member might have. Paul Robeson Jr. spent a good part of his formative years away from his famous parents, and his view of their sometimes strained marriage, held together primarily by their preoccupation with Robeson's career, is remarkably detatched. This is an excellent snapshot of an era when the life of a black artist was complicated by American racism, and the tremendous intellect of a thoughtful genius who had his own views of the world could be stifled by an America unwilling to open its mind.
   A must read for anyone wishing to understand this aspect of African America in the 20th century. I look forward eagerly to the second volume.



2. What an outstanding book about a dazzling man that can only bring pride to every American, joy to anyone hearing him sing, and praise knowing his full life story.

   The book finally shows that Paul Robeson is an icon far beyond his time. He could have lived just the good life based on his talents in academics, entertainment and sports. Robeson earning a comfortable life of opulence with his talents his first 40 years only to give it away to stand up to the injustices he saw in America and the world. He practice when you are given much in life you must give back even more and he did losing much for his show of valance.

   If you ever heard the English words of the Soviet Anthem sung by Robeson, you understand the meaning of justice in life. It must be remembered that this was when Russia along with Ghandi in India were opposing Nazi Germany in Spain, Fascist Italy in Ethiopia and Colonialism in Africa and Asia.

   Robeson was for equality, fairness and civility. They opposed Fascism, Colonialism and Racism just like many came to do in the West, but at a much later date. Robeson never accepted the atrocities of Stalin and indeed never met him. In fact, many of Robeson's friends in Russia were actually purged and murdered by Stalin.

   Consequently, by becoming the most popular singer in Russia in 1930's and supporter of Russia against Hitler in the 1940's actually branded you an archenemy of America in the 1950's. A terrible sad situation but very true. In the end, this yeoman of ability and audacity was wrongly put on many blacklists that forced his legend into the entertainment and political dump heap of oblivion.

   Later there is no doubt that the courageous deeds of Paul Robeson only spawn the acts of Dr. Martin Luther King. These same people led the changes in America that were required so opportiunbities for all replaced the discrimination of the many. The same thing can be said to have happen in Russia when Stalinist's policies were finally exposed for the treachery and exploitation to enslave minds instead of freeing them. The book proclaims the costs of calling real heroes traitors for seeking to oppose the power of such tyranny.

   Paul Robeson is to be admire as much as any person in America. He is my favorite singer and after reading this book you will see few men could equal his talent and even fewer his grit. I highly recommend this book and hope it in made into a movie.




3. I highly recommend "The Undiscovered Paul Robeson" because it provides insightful information for both those readers who know a lot about Paul Robeson and those who do not. One of the most significant figures of the 20th century, this book paints a definitive picture of the key influences of his formative years. Born in 1898, he was raised by his minister father (who was an escaped slave)in the African-American church culture. The book shows how he became a football star,and an internationally famous concert singer and actor who dedicated his art to the struggles of his people for full equality. The book is particularly interesting because it uses Paul Robeson's own words as culled from his diaries, correspondence, and personal conversations with his son and other intimates, and from his wife's diaries. Paul Robeson legacy is important for us to know about. He helped to change the racial stereotype prevalent in the first half of the 20th century by presenting a dignified male image on stage and off; he was the first artist to legitimize spirituals as significant concert material; and he always reflected the dual image of an African-American rooted in his own culture who simultaneously believed in the oneness of the human spirit worldwide. More Americans need to know more about Paul Robeson!



4. I found The Undiscovered Paul Robeson is educational to those who don't understand the way the world use to be. The information provided by his son Paul Robeson Jr was right on point looking back into history. I've learned alot about how the entertainment business can work for you and then against you in a matter of speaking. Reading this book taught me how to forget what people say about you and to acheive to your highest goal ever. I found it enlightening, somewhat humorous at times and a must read book for our African-Americans worldwide. I highly recommend this book to learn about our African-American Heritage.



5. Undiscovered Paul Robeson provides a biography of artist Robeson from 1898-1939, providing a fuller view of not just the man's contributions, but his psyche and family life. Other titles have focused on his role as actor, singer, activist: this probes his youth, his initial resistance to politics, his associates. A revealing biography, Undiscovered Paul Robeson is very highly recommended for Robeson fans.

5 comments about In Nixon's Web: A Year in the Crosshairs of Watergate.

1. In Nixon's Web is a valuable source for Watergate junkies. It also provides new information about the Hoover-era FBI and the actions of old guard Hoover loyalists like Mark Felt. Finally, it fleshes out our picture of L. Patrick Gray who for too long has been portrayed as a cardboard villain in order to highlight the noble heroism of Deep Throat.
   
   The flesh and blood Mark felt comes off badly in Gray's telling. He was an inveterate leaker--not just to Woodward but to the New York Times and Time magazine as well. His leaks were not confined to Watergate but were aimed at discrediting Gray and his attempts to curb the tyrannical abuses of Hoover and his minions. Moreover, when confronted about the leaks, Felt lied and tried to direct suspicion at other, innocent parties.
   
   Ed Gray has also unearthed powerful evidence that Woodward overstated Felt's role and credited Deep Throat with information that came from other sources. The "Deep Throat as composite" theory is far from dead.



2. This book is very easy to read and extemely interesting. I felt very bad for Pat Gray because he is still accused of things that he was never found guilty of doing. He tried to change the FBI and the people working closest with him were never on his side. It's a sad story. I was very disappointed in Mark Felt, Bernstein and Woodward. Felt lied to Gray on many occasions, probably because he wanted the top job. Felt was convicted of crimes but Gray never was and Gray received apologies from the senators who accused him of crimes. Gray's son interviews Bernstein and Woodward about their ongoing accusations against his father. Woodward comes across very badly because he can't seem to explain the notes that he took while writing his book, even though they don't match the Watergate tapes. After reading this, I'm convinced that Felt was not "deep throat". No question that "deep throat" was a combination of a lot of different people who liked to leak information without giving their names. Great book!!!



3. Very good historical review that clears up several mysteries. L. Patrick Gray make a good case for clearing up misstatements about his involvement in Watergate and indicates why the one person identified as the Deep Throat source actually had to be more than one person. Resentment about an outsider being appointed as head of the FBI turns out to be the reason for most of the leaks. Gray defended the FBI based on good faith that his associates wee truthful.
   
   The packaging was a problem. The plastic tabs that were to be lifted to get the discs out were not well separated despite the grooves. I actually damaged one disc beyond use by my attempts to get to it.



4. I found the book fascinating. It was a real page-turner for me. Parts are absolutely gripping, especially when L. Patrick Gray is sitting in Nixon's office perplexed at what his boss is trying to tell him. Gray is an honest man and a straight-shooter and Nixon is trying to get him to be a conspirator without coming right out and saying it. Gray's mind just doesn't have a place for the idea that the President of the United States is a criminal.
   
   Although I was only a boy when the Watergate scandal broke, it was a
   formative chapter in my life. One of my early memories is watching my
   father (a Massachusetts McGovern supporter) listen to the 1972 returns
   in dismay. Later I watched the Watergate hearings on TV at school, transfixed by the historic importance of what was happening.
   
   I've since been keenly aware of the far-reaching damage Nixon did to our
   country. I was less cognizant of the damage he and his henchmen
   inflicted on the personal lives of so many. L. Patrick Gray's story brings this starkly to light.
   
   The extent to which the book also puts the press in a bad light is timely. I was one of those, reared on the Woodward and Bernstein myth of reporter as white knight. In the past 15 years I've come to see the press more for what it is, a self-serving business/political entity. I know there are people of good faith in both government and the press, but they don't seem to be the ones running show, bless 'em for keeping at it!
   
   This book starts to rewrite the fictional construct "Deep Throat" that Woodward and Bernstein created in order to sell a book and a movie, and cast themselves as heroes in the process. "All the President's Men" is a good story but it's far from the truth. "In Nixon's Web" is a first hand account backed up with FBI files, Senate Committee testimony, and the famous White House tapes.
   
   Patrick Gray, a highly respected naval submarine commander, accomplished lawyer and former assistant Attorney General, doesn't cast himself here as a hero, just someone trying to do the best he can for his country. He admits to being naive, especially in trusting people who have been given a high level of trust by the entire nation.
   
   Watergate left a lot of U.S. citizens disillusioned with their government. Patrick Gray was one of them. He has every right to be bitter, but this is not a bitter story. It's a tragedy told directly and without embellishment. The events themselves are enough for a terrific tale.



5. What a great book. L. Patrick Gray is a tragic figure. Stumbles into the FBI Directorship job, gets caught up in all the FBI backstabbing, and on top of it, gets his name thrown in with the criminals of Watergate. Even more tragic is that Mark Felt comes out a hero for being Deep Throat.
   
   Without giving anything away, Nixon's Web will give the interested Watergate reader a very different perspective. It's really easy and good reading. I like the style, it's to the point, very little fluff if any. It's a shame that Gray didn't come out with this sooner, but the announcement of Deep Throat compelled him to break his long silence.
   
   If you've been a Watergate reader, you absolutely cannot go without reading this book.

5 comments about Revolution of Hope: The Life, Faith, and Dreams of a Mexican President.

1. So what if he could not deliver on all of his campaign promises? He did not have the majority in Congress to do so.
   
   He did start making changes which his successor felipe calderon must continue in order for Mexico to be succesfull in the modern world. Free trade, privatization of certain elements of the oil industry, increased government accountability, drug trade, etc.
   
   A lot of people hate him and hated President Zedillo, but without them both, Mexico ould still be stuck in its old political and presidentialist system that brought us nothing but economic crises after economic crises.
   
   A good read, very entertaining outlook at the personal life, back ground, upbringing, career in the private and public sector.



2. When learning a language such as Spanish, it is important to learn the culture of native speakers. Unfortunately, most books on culture are either vague (e.g. Mexicans are macho.) or trivial (such as focusing on a timeline of rulers without making the dates meaningful). Revolution of Hope adds context to Mexican history. When an event happens, the suffering or the improvement of lifestyle of the Foxes is chronicled. Likewise, aspects of culture are illustrated with real-life stories.
   
   I do not agree with all of Vicente Fox's politics, but this book is well-written and a great help in my quest to learn Spanish.



3. In order to read this book you should be objective not subjective. Have an open mind and try to listen to the man. I believe too many people have read(or lied and claimed to have read the book to push their own agenda)this book letting their own prejudices cloud their judgement of the book. It is a memoir of sorts, an autobigraphy if you will. It is not literature. Many authors who are first and foremeost not authors write with the help of a professional, for example, Lance Armstrong has enlisted the help of columnist Sally Jenkins in his books It's Not About the Bike: My Journey Back to Life and Every Second Counts. I mention this because some reviewers here have dismissed this book saying he did not write it. So what is this book about? It is one man's account of his rise to the Presidency in 2000 breaking the one-party rule of the PRI that had a stranglehold on the Mexican people for the previous seventy-one years. This in itself was a monumental accomplishment. But this book is much more than than just his personal rise to power. It is about his struggles, his parents and grandparents struggle to achieve a better life, an ongoing theme that seems to irritate many people when it comes to the immigration issue. BTW, his paternal grandfather emigrated in 1898 to Mexico from the United States (Ohio), seeking a better life because his business failed and his father was an American citizen! So you see, immigration goes north and south, with results that can often be amazing. Vicente Fox chronicles his youth and what it was like to live on the family ranch in San Cristobal in Guanajuato. He discusses his parents decision to send him to school in the U.S. and the effect that had on his youth. Like many Americans or Mexicans of Mexican descent,this traversing of the border can create conflicts on both sides of the border. As children we go where our parents tell us to go because they know best. In the end this was good for Vicente Fox as it allowed him to compare and take the desireable qualities of American life and later apply them to his leadership, first as the youngest CEO of Coca-Cola, on to Governor of Guanajuato and ultimately as President of Mexico. I found President Fox to be a man of integrity, commitment, strength, leadership and vision. People can agree to disagree, as Fox does with Bush but a bond is there between people who are seperated by a border. There is a mutual respect that these two leaders have for each other as the book indicates. His life is fascinating but his desire to create a better world is even more admirable. Politics aside you cannot be other than impressed with his commitment to the betterment of mankind. I was very impressed with his denuciation of the dictator, Hugo Chavez of Venezuela and his good reltionship with President Bush. These two leaders were making progress with regards to immigration until 9/11. The summit meetings in San Cristobal prior to 9/11 were historic in many reagrds, not the least of which was the fact that this was President Bush's first foreign destination. If you do not let your personal views on immigration cloud your judgement I think you can find this autobiography quite compelling. His narration his part history lesson, part vision of the future. He incorporates the lessons of today, compares them with the past and creates a unique observation to the future. He cites examples from Europe on how through a common market the economies of the poorer European nations have leveled the playing field with the richer European nations. The Euro is stronger than the U.S. dollar. He believes that much can be done within our own hemisphere to create prosperity for all nations in the Americas. Canada,the United States and Mexico can be the torchbearers of this vison of economic unity and vitality. Vicente Fox's vison is honest, whether or not it will occurr in our lifetime is another question but naysayers should not write him off so quickly. He achieved the unthinkable, he defeated the PRI'S reign, so don't sell the man short, besides he's very tall, 6'5". Seriously though, Fox doesn't sugar coat his countries problems and presents Mexcio with all it's warts. He discusses the role of narcotrafficers and the devasting effect they have had on both sides of the border. Mexico's attempt to clamp down on these gangs and the cooperation between nations to prosecute. The key word here is cooperate, that is what neighbors must do. Hostility between neighbors, whether it is with regards to immigration or any other "hot" button issue will not solve anything, cooperation will. President Fox continues to fight the good fight with the Centro Fox and the expansion of Vamos Mexico Foundation by getting the help of the Carters, the Clintons and others to combat AIDS in Africa, preventing election fraud, raising funds for disaster relief and working for global democracy, peace and social justice. This is a good book about a good man. Recommended for those who envision a better tommorrow and like current events and autobiographies.



4. Ordered this on Dec. 2 and was told that it shipped Dec. 11. It is now Dec. 23 and I have not received book or any info. as to what is going on since Dec.11. Not happy with this service at this time.



5. I will strongly recomend this book for people that are interested in The Americas' integration of cultures.

5 comments about Petain: How the Hero of France Became a Convicted Traitor and Changed the Course of History.

1. This book is a 2005 biography of Marshal Petain by the British Historian Mr Charles Williams.
   
   Mr Williams is a good writer and the book is well researched, but Mr Williams uses leftist rhetoric in regards to the Catholic Church and right wing organisations such as the Action Francaise. This might have something to do with the fact that Mr Williams was a former member of the Labour Party, the most important British left wing party. Also, the title with the word "traitor" and a photograph of Hitler in Paris reveals bias.
   
   That being said, at the conclusion Mr Williams fortunately still admits the truth that Petain's actions were for the interest of the French people, Petain was not a traitor to his country, and he is sympathetic personally to the Marshal despite political bias.
   
   3 Stars due to the good writing and sympathy but 2 lost for the bias!



2. I thoroughly enjoyed this biography of Petain. I was expecting it to be focused primarily on the Vichy years. However, covers Petain's entire life and career.
   
   The treatment of his leadership at Verdun gave me a better insight into the French perspective on WWI. I have mostly been brought up reading about the British and American experience. For France the war was a brutal meat grinder as they threw men against the German onslaught etc.
   
   This serves as an excellent backdrop for the subsequent sympathetic treatment of Petain in WWII and the Vichy government. Throughout Petain is presented as a man trying to save what he could of his beloved France.
   
   The author demonstrates how Petain did not quickly realize the nature of the Nazi overlords. Many of his compromises were a matter of footdragging, delay and playing for time.
   
   The book did not go into great detail about the policies and programs of the government relating to the Jews. The author did give some insight into Petain's dealings with the resistance. In short they were mostly communists and he didn't like them.
   
   Based on the title I expected the book to be more of an expose of the underbelly of Vichy France. It was no such thing. It was a well drawn portrait of a man twice caught on the cresting waves of history. Succeeding brilliantly the first time and failing the second time.



3. After reading this book, I certainly know more about the sex life of Henri-Philippe Petain then I ever expected I would. But then when an author is writing about a man who sleeps with every woman he can, including the widows of the officers that died under his command, it is a hard subject to avoid. Petain was a hero to all of France after World War I and a traitor after World War II. We can easily think of many men who died too young, John Kennedy, Will Rogers, Buddy Holly. DeGaulle suggested that Petain died too old.
   
   If Petain had died in 1920 he would be remembered as one of the greatest heroes of France, having saved the French army at Verdun in 1916, ended the mutiny of 1917, and stopped the German spring offensive of 1918. Already in his sixties when the war ended (he had been prepared to retire when the war started), Petain lived for 33 more years giving him time to become attracted to the idea of a dictatorship. He was fascinated by Francisco Franco and believed that the only thing that could save France was a single person in power, with himself as that person, of course. When France fell in 1940, Petain signed the Armistice to end the fighting and took up the dictatorship of Vichy France. While there, he let the Jews be deported, let the Nazis take French citizens as slave labor, he fought to stop the Resistance, and created a secret police to control his citizens.
   
   Which leads to my major complaint with the book, that it is much too sympathetic to Petain. The author frequently falls back on Petain's age as being a factor or that Petain thought that he was needed to rescue France from the occupation. The one word that the author fails to use that describes Petain best is narcissist. No one could have possibly had a higher opinion of Petain than Petain. His mistakes were the faults of others. His triumphs were all his alone. Only he could save France. Resigning in the face of Nazi atrocities would destroy France. At the same time he was easily swayed by the last argument he heard on an issue. So it wasn't his policies that mattered to him since he really had none that he held intensely.
   
   I have other complaints as well. The book could have used some maps. Describing the pitch and flow of battles running across the French countryside without having a good idea of where this river or this town is located makes it hard to follow the story. The pictures included were insufficient as they are almost exclusively of Petain. The author describes a picture of Nini (Petain's wife), but does not include the picture. The many people moving in and out of the story could have used brief biographies. It is hard to keep track of a person mentioned on one page who disappears for thirty pages but then is an important part of the continuing story. The final chapters of Petain's trial for treason and his imprisonment are simply too long. I really didn't need to know that at 90, Petain was having issues with incontinence. More detail about why the French government felt unable to move Petain to a military hospital would have been more helpful than gossip about Petain's final days.
   
   Overall, the book is a readable biography of Petain. It certainly isn't a great book and had too many failings to make me truly enjoy it. I know more about Petain than when I started the book but I still feel that Petain himself is in the mist.



4. This is a fine book, and, frankly, its brevity is a major strength. I really did not want to read a whole lot more about Marshall Petain than a few hundred pages. Williams has crafted a concise and workmanlike account of the man who rose to the height of France's status structure after World War I but who would soon fall to its nadir within twenty-five-years. Petain was, in equal turn, both a traitor and a hero. One could even argue that he spectacularly succeeded at both roles. The malicious nature of Vichy France is not something which anyone can deny, but we see here that Petain was oblivious to a good many things during the course of his collaboration with the Nazis. The Marshall does not seem to be an evil person but one whose vanity and pride allowed evil to use and exploit him. Regardless of what he may have wanted Vichy France to be, it became a cesspool of deportations, murder, and oppression. Petain's is a tragic story, but it teaches us that from evil no good can flow. He outlived his greatness and now is remembered chiefly for his flaws and his mistakes.



5. In 1914, at the age of 58, two years from retirement, Petain was a Colonel, with a dull and undistinguished career. But, when the Germans were stopped at the Marne, the French Army was in need of defensive specialists; Petain, who was lauded as the "Victor of Verdun", and later became a Marshal of FRANCE rose to the top of his countries military. Along with Foch (the Victor of the Marne) he was considered one of the 'Saviors of FRANCE' (you can almost hear the Marsaillaise in the background).
   
   He was at the pinacle of his career right after the War and could do no wrong. There is a quote from DeGaulle saying, "it would have been better had he died in 1925". From then on, he couldn't do right, he flirted with the proto-facists in Spain, and worked with the right wing fanatics in France. He was one of the most famous of the backers for what became the "Maginot Line"; in fact he inspected it the week before the German invasion.
   
   But after the French Army fell back behind the German onslaught it seems that every decision he made was the wrong one. He was 'requested' to lead the country in asking for an 'armistice' so as to protect the country from major destruction; and ended up running the government beginning in April 1940.
   
   Under the Armistice, he became the titular head of government of 'unoccupied France' based in Vichy. He then spent the next four years fighting a rear-guard battle with the Germans, Colloborationists, Fascists and Resistance. He said he just wanted to protect France and his 'children' from the Nazis. Unfortunately this didn't include the 100,000 Jews who were sent off the the ovens, nor the french workers who were sent to Germany to work as 'volunteers'. In the end he was tried as a traitor, stripped of all his honors, and died under house area at the age of 95.
   
   Williams spends a lot of time trying to explain Petain, and why he thinks he did what he did. The man was never a politician and may have been to ready to trust anyone who declared himself a patriot. He also was too enamored by the actions of Franco and the early successes of Mussolini. Most of what he did after 1940 (when he was 84) could be written off as the failing of his mental capacities due to the onset of senility.
   
   I think that a lot of what happened at the end was due to a man who had outlived his era (he was 15 when Napoleon III surrendered at Sedan) and didn't fully grasp how the world had changed.