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Recommend this book:
American Grit
From a Japanese American Concentration Camp Rises an American War Hero
John Suzuki
2023 Finalist
188 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
Reviewed by Natalie Soine for Readers' Favorite
Japanese-American Shiro Kashino was one of the thousands of people captured and held at Minidoka, a former United States concentration camp. Ten camps were created after Japan bombed Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, when America declared Japanese Americans on the West Coast to be “resident aliens.” It became everyone’s job to make Minidoka comfortable and livable, and it was here that Shiro met his future wife, Louise Kashino. Shiro joined the United States Army with 6000 men as they needed Japanese-American volunteers to serve and fight in World War II, going to war for the same government that imprisoned him. He would later be regarded as one of the most gallant soldiers of the 442nd Division. The Lost Battalion of the Alamo Regiment was saved by the Japanese-American 442nd Regimental Combat Team in a victory that would become recognized as one of the greatest battles in American history. Thanks to author John Suzuki, the rest of the world will learn what American Grit is.
I commend John Suzuki for his dedication and commitment to completing this historical, educational story and including the most beautiful photos. John has fulfilled Kashino’s wish that the experience of Japanese Americans and the valor of the 442nd RCT during World War II never be forgotten. Readers will appreciate the time and effort it must have taken John to complete his research, travel to various towns, and compile all the information he gathered along the way. John has also included original documents and references for further reading. American Grit is well-written, smooth flowing, and a pleasure to read. Highly recommended to people of all ages.
Japanese-American Shiro Kashino was one of the thousands of people captured and held at Minidoka, a former United States concentration camp. Ten camps were created after Japan bombed Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, when America declared Japanese Americans on the West Coast to be “resident aliens.” It became everyone’s job to make Minidoka comfortable and livable, and it was here that Shiro met his future wife, Louise Kashino. Shiro joined the United States Army with 6000 men as they needed Japanese-American volunteers to serve and fight in World War II, going to war for the same government that imprisoned him. He would later be regarded as one of the most gallant soldiers of the 442nd Division. The Lost Battalion of the Alamo Regiment was saved by the Japanese-American 442nd Regimental Combat Team in a victory that would become recognized as one of the greatest battles in American history. Thanks to author John Suzuki, the rest of the world will learn what American Grit is.
I commend John Suzuki for his dedication and commitment to completing this historical, educational story and including the most beautiful photos. John has fulfilled Kashino’s wish that the experience of Japanese Americans and the valor of the 442nd RCT during World War II never be forgotten. Readers will appreciate the time and effort it must have taken John to complete his research, travel to various towns, and compile all the information he gathered along the way. John has also included original documents and references for further reading. American Grit is well-written, smooth flowing, and a pleasure to read. Highly recommended to people of all ages.
Recommend this book:
Secrets of the Kashmir Valley
A Story of Love, Loss and Courage
Farhana Qazi
2023 Honorable Mention
176 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
Reviewed by Munir Muhammad for Readers' Favorite
In Secrets of the Kashmir Valley by American scholar Farhana Qazi, the author tells an unforgettable true story. It is about the women of the Kashmir Valley as peaceful protestors, political activists, and the prime victims of a brutal war. It is a place of great beauty and immense tragedy. It is also described as Paradise on Earth. But in this land of magic and myth, some madmen and militaries trample on Kashmir’s beauty. Kashmir is in the midst of an active conflict, unsettling and unpredictable. It is not about the politics of war, but the people living inside it. It shares the true, emotional, personal stories of women who struggle, sacrifice and survive against all odds. Every day, someone dies, someone is detained or someone disappears. After seven decades of war, Kashmiris go on living. They go to school. They fall in love. They get married. Many have children. They do what seems normal, despite the protests, politics, and paranoia of living in a place that is not free.
Secrets of the Kashmir Valley is a brilliant book that describes the author’s unique personal observations with a deep knowledge of the region, its people, and its culture to describe Kashmir. The author's bravery, open-mindedness, intelligence, and tenacity take her into danger, real lives, and raw emotions during her journey. It is a very daring story and the style of writing creates ample awareness of what is happening in Kashmir. It gives one the ability to sense other people's emotions and imagine what someone else might be thinking or feeling. Farhana Qazi's writing style is profound and provides insights into the veil of Kashmir. It gives a heart-breaking reminder that military occupation must end to allow the Kashmiri people to be free. It is so compelling that readers will end up reading the entire book in one sitting. This is a story that must be read by those who wish to understand the role of women in one of Asia’s longest-running wars, almost seven decades, and the motivations, lives, and thoughts of the women in Kashmir.
In Secrets of the Kashmir Valley by American scholar Farhana Qazi, the author tells an unforgettable true story. It is about the women of the Kashmir Valley as peaceful protestors, political activists, and the prime victims of a brutal war. It is a place of great beauty and immense tragedy. It is also described as Paradise on Earth. But in this land of magic and myth, some madmen and militaries trample on Kashmir’s beauty. Kashmir is in the midst of an active conflict, unsettling and unpredictable. It is not about the politics of war, but the people living inside it. It shares the true, emotional, personal stories of women who struggle, sacrifice and survive against all odds. Every day, someone dies, someone is detained or someone disappears. After seven decades of war, Kashmiris go on living. They go to school. They fall in love. They get married. Many have children. They do what seems normal, despite the protests, politics, and paranoia of living in a place that is not free.
Secrets of the Kashmir Valley is a brilliant book that describes the author’s unique personal observations with a deep knowledge of the region, its people, and its culture to describe Kashmir. The author's bravery, open-mindedness, intelligence, and tenacity take her into danger, real lives, and raw emotions during her journey. It is a very daring story and the style of writing creates ample awareness of what is happening in Kashmir. It gives one the ability to sense other people's emotions and imagine what someone else might be thinking or feeling. Farhana Qazi's writing style is profound and provides insights into the veil of Kashmir. It gives a heart-breaking reminder that military occupation must end to allow the Kashmiri people to be free. It is so compelling that readers will end up reading the entire book in one sitting. This is a story that must be read by those who wish to understand the role of women in one of Asia’s longest-running wars, almost seven decades, and the motivations, lives, and thoughts of the women in Kashmir.
Recommend this book:
America’s Loveless Age
Trumpism, FemPower, the End of Patriarchy (Why Singleton is the New Normal)
Noel Terry
2023 Bronze Medal
266 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
Reviewed by Keith Mbuya for Readers' Favorite
Donald Trump’s victory in the 2016 US presidential polls not only sent Americans hurtling down a path with some of their worst fears, but also engaged them in an all-discovery journey politically, socially, spiritually, and in every aspect of life you can think of. Most devastatingly, the liberals and conservatives were left deeply sundered and rather doubtful about the whole idea of “The American Dream”. Is it the Republicans' idea of the good old days of patriarchy apparently being sold as “Make America Great Again”? Is it the Democrats' idea of a liberal society endowed with gender equality (which aggressively promotes women's empowerment)? What exactly does patriarchy entail? Has gender equality made the lives of Americans any better? Which is the right way to go? Find out more, and just how this political heat might be the reason why there is a growing number of singletons in the United States in Noel Terry’s America’s Loveless Age.
Noel Terry’s America’s Loveless Age is a must-read for any political enthusiast. He delves deep into one of the toughest topics among the American people and summarizes his thoughts and ideas succinctly. His unique style of writing impressively conveys his educative and insightful discourse on the political situation in the United States. His sophisticated choice of words and the intensive way he aligns his thoughts exhibit his mastery in the whole subject of politics as well as in the art of writing. Noel Terry is undoubtedly a professional writer. I loved how he advances his ideas unbiasedly and with an open mind. He includes an array of quoted sentiments, statistical data, and a vast reference to historical facts to back his ideas. He maintains both a casual and “down to business” tone throughout the book, occasionally spicing his words with sarcasm, irony, and wit. America’s Loveless Age is a great piece of work.
Donald Trump’s victory in the 2016 US presidential polls not only sent Americans hurtling down a path with some of their worst fears, but also engaged them in an all-discovery journey politically, socially, spiritually, and in every aspect of life you can think of. Most devastatingly, the liberals and conservatives were left deeply sundered and rather doubtful about the whole idea of “The American Dream”. Is it the Republicans' idea of the good old days of patriarchy apparently being sold as “Make America Great Again”? Is it the Democrats' idea of a liberal society endowed with gender equality (which aggressively promotes women's empowerment)? What exactly does patriarchy entail? Has gender equality made the lives of Americans any better? Which is the right way to go? Find out more, and just how this political heat might be the reason why there is a growing number of singletons in the United States in Noel Terry’s America’s Loveless Age.
Noel Terry’s America’s Loveless Age is a must-read for any political enthusiast. He delves deep into one of the toughest topics among the American people and summarizes his thoughts and ideas succinctly. His unique style of writing impressively conveys his educative and insightful discourse on the political situation in the United States. His sophisticated choice of words and the intensive way he aligns his thoughts exhibit his mastery in the whole subject of politics as well as in the art of writing. Noel Terry is undoubtedly a professional writer. I loved how he advances his ideas unbiasedly and with an open mind. He includes an array of quoted sentiments, statistical data, and a vast reference to historical facts to back his ideas. He maintains both a casual and “down to business” tone throughout the book, occasionally spicing his words with sarcasm, irony, and wit. America’s Loveless Age is a great piece of work.
Recommend this book:
Schnooks, Crooks, Liars & Scoundrels
A Field Guide to Identifying Political Buffoons
Gene Berardelli
2023 Silver Medal
234 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
Reviewed by Maryann Namayi for Readers' Favorite
Schnooks, Crooks, Liars and Scoundrels: A Field Guide to Identifying Political Buffoons by Gene Berardelli is an informative and thought-provoking nonfiction guide to exploring the intricacies of government and politics. The author explores the impact of factors like derision and ridicule on American political culture. He examines how some politicians intentionally adopt buffoonish behavior as a tactic to increase their influence and discusses the implications of this phenomenon. So why is this referred to as political buffoonery? How does it relate to self-confidence and ignorance? It's simple; the answers lie within the skills of politicians themselves. This book delves deep into this subject by examining various aspects of American political history and events shaping the modern political scene. Learn about it, participate in the author's extensive discussions, and benefit from his knowledge.
The author provides valuable insights into the tools and strategies required to succeed in politics. He emphasizes the importance of developing a winning attitude and effective communication skills. Gene Berardelli suggests that factors such as "name recognition" can be viable predictors of electoral success but stresses the need for politicians to take proactive steps toward achieving their goals. Drawing inspiration from noted genius Dr. Emmet Brown, the author argues that political buffoonery remains a potential threat to society but can be mitigated through proper measures. He provides readers with a wealth of information and practical advice on navigating the complex world of politics and achieving success. Schnooks, Crooks, Liars and Scoundrels is a well-written and informative read that offers a unique perspective on the modern political landscape. Berardelli's extensive knowledge and expertise are evident throughout this book, making it an invaluable resource for anyone interested in politics or government.
Schnooks, Crooks, Liars and Scoundrels: A Field Guide to Identifying Political Buffoons by Gene Berardelli is an informative and thought-provoking nonfiction guide to exploring the intricacies of government and politics. The author explores the impact of factors like derision and ridicule on American political culture. He examines how some politicians intentionally adopt buffoonish behavior as a tactic to increase their influence and discusses the implications of this phenomenon. So why is this referred to as political buffoonery? How does it relate to self-confidence and ignorance? It's simple; the answers lie within the skills of politicians themselves. This book delves deep into this subject by examining various aspects of American political history and events shaping the modern political scene. Learn about it, participate in the author's extensive discussions, and benefit from his knowledge.
The author provides valuable insights into the tools and strategies required to succeed in politics. He emphasizes the importance of developing a winning attitude and effective communication skills. Gene Berardelli suggests that factors such as "name recognition" can be viable predictors of electoral success but stresses the need for politicians to take proactive steps toward achieving their goals. Drawing inspiration from noted genius Dr. Emmet Brown, the author argues that political buffoonery remains a potential threat to society but can be mitigated through proper measures. He provides readers with a wealth of information and practical advice on navigating the complex world of politics and achieving success. Schnooks, Crooks, Liars and Scoundrels is a well-written and informative read that offers a unique perspective on the modern political landscape. Berardelli's extensive knowledge and expertise are evident throughout this book, making it an invaluable resource for anyone interested in politics or government.
Recommend this book:
How Russia Became a Zombie State
Alexey Molchanov
2023 Gold Medal
404 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
How Russia Became a Zombie State by Alexey Molchanov revolves around the history of Russia through to its contemporary political climate today, and how the author believes the culmination has resulted in the deterioration of a once great empire. Molchanov shares his expertise as a qualified lawyer from Moscow who has since relocated outside the country and employs his experience as someone who worked within the Russian legal system in multiple capacities. What Molchanov specifically does in this book is comb through the Russian constitution and examine each and every article. Within these articles, he links back to the ways, and very often it is in many ways, that Vladimir Putin has shaped the government for the express purpose of preserving his power and serving his needs regardless of the detriment to the people.
How Russia Became a Zombie State was an interesting read for me, particularly as someone who works within the structure of the justice department, and it is clear that Alexey Molchanov is passionate about the Russian legal machine. This is the first time I have ever read the constitutional document, translated into English, that is intended to be the cornerstone of Russian democracy but is instead worth little more than a box of Kleenex. The most intriguing aspect for me is the constitution itself, which Molchanov annotates where exactly it has been willfully ignored. From a literary standpoint, the writing is of an acceptable standard but would benefit from a more substantive polish. The references to resources for further study give those who would like to do their own digging a map of where to start, which is excellent. For those with a deep interest in Russian history and those who like reading the constitutions of other countries, this will be a good match.
How Russia Became a Zombie State by Alexey Molchanov revolves around the history of Russia through to its contemporary political climate today, and how the author believes the culmination has resulted in the deterioration of a once great empire. Molchanov shares his expertise as a qualified lawyer from Moscow who has since relocated outside the country and employs his experience as someone who worked within the Russian legal system in multiple capacities. What Molchanov specifically does in this book is comb through the Russian constitution and examine each and every article. Within these articles, he links back to the ways, and very often it is in many ways, that Vladimir Putin has shaped the government for the express purpose of preserving his power and serving his needs regardless of the detriment to the people.
How Russia Became a Zombie State was an interesting read for me, particularly as someone who works within the structure of the justice department, and it is clear that Alexey Molchanov is passionate about the Russian legal machine. This is the first time I have ever read the constitutional document, translated into English, that is intended to be the cornerstone of Russian democracy but is instead worth little more than a box of Kleenex. The most intriguing aspect for me is the constitution itself, which Molchanov annotates where exactly it has been willfully ignored. From a literary standpoint, the writing is of an acceptable standard but would benefit from a more substantive polish. The references to resources for further study give those who would like to do their own digging a map of where to start, which is excellent. For those with a deep interest in Russian history and those who like reading the constitutions of other countries, this will be a good match.
Recommend this book:
Why They Stay
Sex Scandals, Deals, and Hidden Agendas of Eight Political Wives
Anne Michaud
2022 Finalist
281 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
Reviewed by Jennifer Ibiam for Readers' Favorite
Have you ever wondered why the wives of cheating presidents and powerful politicians seldom walk away? Why They Stay: Sex Scandals, Deals, and Hidden Agendas of Eight Political Wives by Anne Michaud profiles the lives of eight powerful political couples through American and British history. Anne delved behind the curtains to shine a light on the private and public lives of political wives and why they tolerate the consistent infidelities of their husbands. As a veteran political journalist, Anne left no stone unturned through thorough research, bringing us the truth. She also reveals how the conduct of these couples spills into the next generation: their children. Did we know anything from what the media showed us? Why They Stay told me we know nothing. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this seasoned exposé!
Why They Stay by Anne Michaud was revealing, insightful, and arresting. This book felt like a mix of premium gossip tabloids and a journal. While the stories were fun, I was appalled by how much a woman would put up with for the sake of power, affluence, and fame. I always believed marriage to be sacred, but I watched these couples turn their marriages into transactional and contractual relationships. Someone had to gain something, and often, the woman was at a disadvantage. Where do wives draw the line between self-respect, healthy marriage life, and the quest for power and financial security? However, I developed a grudging respect for Jackie. Anne’s reportage is not isolated but a conduit that links women across races, exposing their private ordeals from the past to the present.
Have you ever wondered why the wives of cheating presidents and powerful politicians seldom walk away? Why They Stay: Sex Scandals, Deals, and Hidden Agendas of Eight Political Wives by Anne Michaud profiles the lives of eight powerful political couples through American and British history. Anne delved behind the curtains to shine a light on the private and public lives of political wives and why they tolerate the consistent infidelities of their husbands. As a veteran political journalist, Anne left no stone unturned through thorough research, bringing us the truth. She also reveals how the conduct of these couples spills into the next generation: their children. Did we know anything from what the media showed us? Why They Stay told me we know nothing. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this seasoned exposé!
Why They Stay by Anne Michaud was revealing, insightful, and arresting. This book felt like a mix of premium gossip tabloids and a journal. While the stories were fun, I was appalled by how much a woman would put up with for the sake of power, affluence, and fame. I always believed marriage to be sacred, but I watched these couples turn their marriages into transactional and contractual relationships. Someone had to gain something, and often, the woman was at a disadvantage. Where do wives draw the line between self-respect, healthy marriage life, and the quest for power and financial security? However, I developed a grudging respect for Jackie. Anne’s reportage is not isolated but a conduit that links women across races, exposing their private ordeals from the past to the present.
Recommend this book:
Macron Unveiled
The Prototype for a New Generation of World Leaders
Alain Lefebvre
2022 Honorable Mention
224 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
Reviewed by Frances Deborah Kerr-Phillips for Readers' Favorite
Macron Unveiled by Alain Lefebvre is an in-depth investigation into Emmanuel Macron, President of France, man, politician, and player on the international stage. In each chapter, Lefebvre explores a different aspect of Macron’s complex public persona in terms of how he has approached significant internal and external crises and events. Macron is shown to be a completely new political ‘prototype’ in that he has positioned himself as being in the middle of the political spectrum, independent of traditional left-wing and right-wing ideologies, being driven by what he believes is best for France. However, Lefebvre does not shy away from what he perceives as being flaws in Macron’s strategies. Macron Unveiled follows the French president's meteoric rise, his stumbling, and his regaining of equilibrium as the end of his first term approaches.
In reading Macron Unveiled, I hoped to improve my knowledge and understanding of France’s current political landscape. Lefebvre’s book, however, offers so much more: he couches his analysis of Macron within a deeper study of French political history, providing the reader with abundant context. In addition, Macron’s strategies and character are often compared to those of key political players around the globe, such as John F. Kennedy. His commentary is frequently substantiated by quotations from various print media publications, as well as from public figures, lending authenticity to his arguments. With the first round of the 2022 French presidential election less than a month away, the opportunity Macron Unveiled offers to gain insight into one of the key contenders is well worth seizing.
Macron Unveiled by Alain Lefebvre is an in-depth investigation into Emmanuel Macron, President of France, man, politician, and player on the international stage. In each chapter, Lefebvre explores a different aspect of Macron’s complex public persona in terms of how he has approached significant internal and external crises and events. Macron is shown to be a completely new political ‘prototype’ in that he has positioned himself as being in the middle of the political spectrum, independent of traditional left-wing and right-wing ideologies, being driven by what he believes is best for France. However, Lefebvre does not shy away from what he perceives as being flaws in Macron’s strategies. Macron Unveiled follows the French president's meteoric rise, his stumbling, and his regaining of equilibrium as the end of his first term approaches.
In reading Macron Unveiled, I hoped to improve my knowledge and understanding of France’s current political landscape. Lefebvre’s book, however, offers so much more: he couches his analysis of Macron within a deeper study of French political history, providing the reader with abundant context. In addition, Macron’s strategies and character are often compared to those of key political players around the globe, such as John F. Kennedy. His commentary is frequently substantiated by quotations from various print media publications, as well as from public figures, lending authenticity to his arguments. With the first round of the 2022 French presidential election less than a month away, the opportunity Macron Unveiled offers to gain insight into one of the key contenders is well worth seizing.
Recommend this book:
Stress Test
How Donald Trump Threatens American Democracy
William Cooper
2022 Bronze Medal
184 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
Reviewed by Francis Mont for Readers' Favorite
Stress Test: How Donald Trump Threatens American Democracy by William Cooper is a collection of previously published columns by the author. The theme is American Democracy, its current state of health, and the stresses it has undergone during and after the Trump presidency. The collection systematically analyzes the key preconditions of a healthy democratic system and points out the danger signs that we have all witnessed during the unprecedented period it’s dealing with. It starts with the 2019 impeachment proceeding; then continues with an analysis of the judiciary; then the role and condition of the press; it follows with a description of voter apathy, cognitive dissonance, and powerful bias permeating the citizenry. The criminal justice system’s dismal record is followed by a detailed analysis of the January 6 insurrection at the Capitol and Trump’s role in it. The 2020 election is covered in one column and then he dives into the thorny issue of what can we do in the “The Way Forward” column in which he points out the danger signs American democracy is facing now with Trump still looming large, casting a dark shadow on America’s future
I have very seldom read a collection as factually balanced as this one. In our age of extreme opinions, painting everything as wholly good or evil, it is so refreshing to read a rational analysis, in the best sense of the word. The author cautions us that rationality most and foremost has to consider the facts that are well documented and well understood. Once in possession of the facts, rational human beings have to use intelligent judgment to evaluate them and draw cautious conclusions, ready to modify them as and when new facts emerge or old ones are discarded. Scientists use the same method (The Scientific Method) to achieve great results in areas of science, medicine, and technology. Human beings, dealing with their own issues about their democratic institutions should do the same. The writing is clear, concise, thorough, and often passionate. William Cooper’s Stress Test should be required reading for all segments of the citizenry from politicians to educators to the press. Highly recommended.
Stress Test: How Donald Trump Threatens American Democracy by William Cooper is a collection of previously published columns by the author. The theme is American Democracy, its current state of health, and the stresses it has undergone during and after the Trump presidency. The collection systematically analyzes the key preconditions of a healthy democratic system and points out the danger signs that we have all witnessed during the unprecedented period it’s dealing with. It starts with the 2019 impeachment proceeding; then continues with an analysis of the judiciary; then the role and condition of the press; it follows with a description of voter apathy, cognitive dissonance, and powerful bias permeating the citizenry. The criminal justice system’s dismal record is followed by a detailed analysis of the January 6 insurrection at the Capitol and Trump’s role in it. The 2020 election is covered in one column and then he dives into the thorny issue of what can we do in the “The Way Forward” column in which he points out the danger signs American democracy is facing now with Trump still looming large, casting a dark shadow on America’s future
I have very seldom read a collection as factually balanced as this one. In our age of extreme opinions, painting everything as wholly good or evil, it is so refreshing to read a rational analysis, in the best sense of the word. The author cautions us that rationality most and foremost has to consider the facts that are well documented and well understood. Once in possession of the facts, rational human beings have to use intelligent judgment to evaluate them and draw cautious conclusions, ready to modify them as and when new facts emerge or old ones are discarded. Scientists use the same method (The Scientific Method) to achieve great results in areas of science, medicine, and technology. Human beings, dealing with their own issues about their democratic institutions should do the same. The writing is clear, concise, thorough, and often passionate. William Cooper’s Stress Test should be required reading for all segments of the citizenry from politicians to educators to the press. Highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
The Intrepid Brotherhood
Public Power, Corruption, and Whistleblowing in the Pacific Northwest
Gordon Graham
2022 Silver Medal
216 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
Reviewed by Maria Victoria Beltran for Readers' Favorite
The Intrepid Brotherhood: Public Power, Corruption, and Whistleblowing in the Pacific Northwest by Gordon Graham is an account of the author's experiences leading up to his controversial filing of a whistle-blower petition with the Chelan County Public Utility District. Organized under state statute as a non-profit municipal corporation, the organization functions as a customer-owned public cooperative energy district. It provides electric, water, wastewater, public utility, and telecommunications services in Chelan County, in north-central Washington, USA. When Sonny Smart announced his retirement as General Manager in 1997 and a new manager was hired under questionable circumstances, an autocratic style of management became the norm. As director of its Information Technology Department, Gordon Graham tried to do his job under stressful circumstances but matters finally came to a head when he was unceremoniously fired. This is his story.
Gordon Graham’s The Intrepid Brotherhood exposes what went wrong at the Chelan County Public Utility District when an ambitious Chief Financial Officer set out to take over its management and succeeded, albeit temporarily. In eight interesting chapters, the author logically and objectively presents the way the organization was manipulated and mismanaged. The aftermath included overspending, irregular payments for work that wasn’t performed, inadequate implementation of a new system, and collusion in approving contracts to preferred vendors. In telling his story, the author provides not only the full picture behind his filing of the whistle-blower petition but also guidelines on how to manage a business or an organization through the use of best practices and ethical leadership. This book is a must-read for all managers and every member of the workforce. Highly recommended!
The Intrepid Brotherhood: Public Power, Corruption, and Whistleblowing in the Pacific Northwest by Gordon Graham is an account of the author's experiences leading up to his controversial filing of a whistle-blower petition with the Chelan County Public Utility District. Organized under state statute as a non-profit municipal corporation, the organization functions as a customer-owned public cooperative energy district. It provides electric, water, wastewater, public utility, and telecommunications services in Chelan County, in north-central Washington, USA. When Sonny Smart announced his retirement as General Manager in 1997 and a new manager was hired under questionable circumstances, an autocratic style of management became the norm. As director of its Information Technology Department, Gordon Graham tried to do his job under stressful circumstances but matters finally came to a head when he was unceremoniously fired. This is his story.
Gordon Graham’s The Intrepid Brotherhood exposes what went wrong at the Chelan County Public Utility District when an ambitious Chief Financial Officer set out to take over its management and succeeded, albeit temporarily. In eight interesting chapters, the author logically and objectively presents the way the organization was manipulated and mismanaged. The aftermath included overspending, irregular payments for work that wasn’t performed, inadequate implementation of a new system, and collusion in approving contracts to preferred vendors. In telling his story, the author provides not only the full picture behind his filing of the whistle-blower petition but also guidelines on how to manage a business or an organization through the use of best practices and ethical leadership. This book is a must-read for all managers and every member of the workforce. Highly recommended!
Recommend this book:
We The Presidents
How American Presidents Shaped the Last Century
Ronald Gruner
2022 Gold Medal
648 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
Life hasn’t changed that much. Politics remains partisan and often volatile. But what of life? Ronald Gruner explores this theme in We The Presidents: How American Presidents Shaped the Last Century. We still have a world full of differing opinions on everything from climate change to soaring inflation, issues on equity and inclusion, wars and natural disasters, and the list goes on. Yet, when the politicians make their platform statements, it’s all empty promises with only the rhetoric of the party they represent shining through. Presidential biographies focus on these partisan issues: what the president accomplished and how he stood up for the beliefs of their respective political parties. If one were to look at the non-partisan side of presidential biographies, what would the story be like? Perhaps what we’d see, first-hand, is a repeat of the same issues, the same problems, everything that defines what America is now and what it was then. “It’s the intertwined threads of history, rippling upward to today, that have woven the intricate tableau that is America.” What truly makes each of these presidents, the way history defines them, is the people who supported them, voted them in, rallied for or against them – in other words, the real Americans who stood the test of time.
Ronald Gruner’s book, We The Presidents, is a fascinating study of modern American history and the politics that defined it. From Warren G. Harding to Donald Trump, the author has delved into the man behind the scenes, the man who represented the presidential office, and the often volatile issues that played out. The study follows the presidents sequentially, with each chapter beginning with a profound quote from the president being portrayed. From Harding’s, “America’s present need is not heroics, but healing; not nostrums, but normalcy; not revolution, but restoration,” to Trump’s proclamation, “Together, we will make America strong again,” the underlying theme is the resilience of the people and all for the good of the people. This is an engrossing look at both modern American history and American political history.
Life hasn’t changed that much. Politics remains partisan and often volatile. But what of life? Ronald Gruner explores this theme in We The Presidents: How American Presidents Shaped the Last Century. We still have a world full of differing opinions on everything from climate change to soaring inflation, issues on equity and inclusion, wars and natural disasters, and the list goes on. Yet, when the politicians make their platform statements, it’s all empty promises with only the rhetoric of the party they represent shining through. Presidential biographies focus on these partisan issues: what the president accomplished and how he stood up for the beliefs of their respective political parties. If one were to look at the non-partisan side of presidential biographies, what would the story be like? Perhaps what we’d see, first-hand, is a repeat of the same issues, the same problems, everything that defines what America is now and what it was then. “It’s the intertwined threads of history, rippling upward to today, that have woven the intricate tableau that is America.” What truly makes each of these presidents, the way history defines them, is the people who supported them, voted them in, rallied for or against them – in other words, the real Americans who stood the test of time.
Ronald Gruner’s book, We The Presidents, is a fascinating study of modern American history and the politics that defined it. From Warren G. Harding to Donald Trump, the author has delved into the man behind the scenes, the man who represented the presidential office, and the often volatile issues that played out. The study follows the presidents sequentially, with each chapter beginning with a profound quote from the president being portrayed. From Harding’s, “America’s present need is not heroics, but healing; not nostrums, but normalcy; not revolution, but restoration,” to Trump’s proclamation, “Together, we will make America strong again,” the underlying theme is the resilience of the people and all for the good of the people. This is an engrossing look at both modern American history and American political history.
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