nbronzova

Before I read this book I had heard a critic say it lacked any policy prescriptions, but personally I think it is loaded with practical ideas for improving domestic and foreign policy. Obama necessarily paints with a broader stroke than if the book were about one issue only, but by reading it one can learn where he stands on issues ranging from healthcare to the role of the Bretton-Woods institutions. This does not make the book boring, however. His ideas are nicely woven with personal anecdotes and the lessons he has learned from speaking with his constituents. Furthermore, because Obama writes on a very personal level and admits to mistakes he has made in life, he comes across less as a stuffy politician and more as a real, complete human being. Although Obama is obviously a Democrat, he acknowledges valid points that conservatives make and attempts to define our shared values. In this way, even though the book points out particular problems within our nation that frustrate me, overall Obama succeeds in making me feel better about the people of America, at least while I'm reading it.

2022-11-14 13:53