Book Description
Olson turns her razor sharp vision on the Clintons' shocking excesses in their final days of office: the outrageous pardons to political cronies and friends, the looting of the White House, the executive orders that were sheer abuses of presidential power, the presidential library that is becoming a massive boondoogle of vanity more appropriate for a Third World dictator, and much more.
Customer Reviews:
What politicians will do to cling onto power.......2006-12-10
Conservative commentator Barbara Olson, who perished when the hijacked Flight 77 dove into the Pentagon on September 11, 2001, reminds us with "The Final Days" precisely what sort of leeching parasites politicians can be. This is not a strict "Republican" or "Democrat" kind of thing, nor is it an issue pertaining to just "conservatives" or just "liberals." The book is not biased just because it reports only the Clinton wrongdoings, even though the author is a self-proclaimed conservative. In fact, the flip side to Olson's coin is the recently released "State of Denial" by Bob Woodward, who similarly documents the slime coursing through the current Bush administration and the ongoing war in Iraq. No, "The Final Days: The Last, Desperate Abuses of Power by the Clinton White House" merely reiterates a well-worn fact of life dominant in today's world: Power corrupts.
Olson's final account about the closing of doors in the Clinton administration should send alarm bells screeching through the minds of the American electorate, especially in a time where a Hillary Clinton run for the presidency seems almost inevitable. Olson reveals with painstaking accuracy the core tenets of Clintonism: Deny the accusations, play the helpless victim, and attack the enemy with relentless savagery. And, of course, it is permissible to lie whenever the chance arrives. When many liberal Democrats pressured him truthfully to explain everything behind the pardon of Marc Rich and his associates, President Clinton acknowledged that those he pardoned, who evaded millions in taxes and maintained connections with the Castro and Gaddafi regimes, simply had been wrongfully persecuted by the Justice Department. It is a classic example of the `victim hood' phenomenon so popularly paraded by the Clintons. Everyone seems to be a poor, pitiable victim, especially if their names end with "Clinton" and the persecutor is that dang "right-wing conspiracy." I'm afraid the term you're looking for, Mr. and Mrs. President, is "vast critical-thinking conspiracy." Or perhaps the "concerned American citizen conspiracy."
Like "State of Denial," "The Final Days" wields sharp facts to counter the myths surrounding popular politicians. Clinton may have presided over the largest economic expansion in U.S. history, but the shameless "For Sale" sign dangling around his neck during the closing days of his administration calls into question his serious character and moral flaws. Similarly, Bush may have stated "Mission Accomplished" in Iraq, but the fact that we are still there waging a failing campaign at the expense of American and Iraqi blood does not make his acts justifiable. I highly recommend both books to spark in your head the idea that maybe we need to rethink seriously the decision of putting these kinds of people in power.
A book about two topics: pardon and donation........2006-05-26
I listened to the audio version of this book. While most of the things said in this book may be true, it appears a bit biased. In addition to facts, the author uses some adjectives which show her personal dislike of the famous couple.
In the end, I had an impression that this book grew out of author's frustration upon Mark Rich pardon. Many chapters are dedicated to that case.
A disproportionately large portion of the book is devoted to two topics: pardon and donations. At one point the audio book spends a large amount of time only listing names of who donated what item. It goes on and on and on with names that make no sense and contribute nothing much to the story. That could have been moved to the appendix to keep the flow going.
I was hoping to find details about mischievious behavior by Clinton staff during the last days. There was no mention of that.
FAILING TO CROSSOVER.......2006-04-15
"The much talked about Marc Rich pardon has become an appropriate symbol of the entire eight years, but Mrs. Olson does a commendable service by clearly detailing the effrontery of his (Rich's) misdeeds, and an even more skillful demonstration of the President's specious and insulting attempt to justify this shocking act. To add fuel to her raging fire, she quotes former President Jimmy Carter who openly stated "I don't think there is any doubt that some of the factors in his pardon were attributable to his large gifts. In my opinion that was disgraceful."
Naturally, given her neo-con bent, Ms. Olsen failed to mention the extremely salient point that the attorney representing Marc Rich's pardon application was none other than Scooter Libby, Dick Cheney's aide.
Excellent and bloody right!.......2006-03-18
All of you Clinton lovers should actually learn to not turn the blind eye on many of these things Clinton did during his presidency. The last few minutes before he was impeached.
I can admit George Bush is a bad president himself but I can also admit what Bill clinton stood for. Corruption!
See the pardons such as the nationalistic terrorist group from Puerto Rico plus the tax cheat and a whole list of other losers that Clinton pardoned.
A Catalogue of Iniquities. .......2004-07-28
The last days of the Clintons were an occasion for the country to witness just how corrupt this two for the price of one team actually was. They took furniture and gifts that were not their's for the taking, and appeared to be granting pardons on the basis of what law breakers held the most influence within their circle of friends and family. From arsenic to Mark Rich, the whole squalid tale is recounted by the superlative Barbara Olso, who sadly is no longer with us.
Book Description
The famed compound at Hyannisport was the Kennedy family's favorite place to relax, and Rose Kennedy's kitchen was the central gathering place. Everyone--including Jackie Kennedy Onassis, JFK Jr., Caroline Kennedy, Maria Shriver, and Arnold Schwarzenegger--came wandering in the back door to visit Rose. Her chef, Neil Connolly, always made sure there was lobster salad, potato salad, and a platter of roast chicken in the fridge, and in this book, he brings these and other favorites to your home. Included in this cookbook are Kennedy family photos and anecdotes collected personally by Neil.
Here he shares an exclusive recipe from the Kennedy kitchen with us:
Sugar Tuile
These thin, crisp cookies can be cooled flat, but here they are formed into edible cups that can hold ice cream, chocolate mouse, or fresh berries. Note that the cookies are baked in two batches, so that you have time to mold them while they are still warm and soft.
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Makes about 8 cookie cups
1 stick (4 ounces) butter, at room temperature
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
6 egg whites
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract |
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1. Preheat the oven at 375 degrees F. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper and draw four circles 5 inches in diameter on each piece of paper.
2. Invert four heatproof, 2-inch-wide glasses or cups on the counter so they are ready when the tuiles come out of the oven.
3. In a mixing bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the sifted flour, egg whites, and vanilla. Beat until well blended.
4. Spoon the batter into the circles on one baking sheet and spread to the edges with an offset spatula. The batter will be very thin.
5. Bake the tuiles for 5 to 6 minutes, or until the edges become golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven and immediately use a wide spatula to invert each tuile over a glass. Using a mitt, gently press to form into a cup shape. As soon as the tuiles are set, gently lift them off the glasses.
7. Whisk the batter briefly and form the remaining 4 tuiles. Bake and form as directed above. When all the tuile cups are cool and set, store in a covered container until ready for use. |
Customer Reviews:
Buy it!.......2007-07-16
I bought this book as one of our prizes for out annual 4th of July races. I skimmed it and copied a few recipes before placing it on the prize table. Wonderful stories with every recipe. The three recipes I made have been excellent. The meatloaf is the best I've tasted and easy to make.
I plan on ordering another copy for myself and trying more recipes.
Jini.......2007-06-11
I live about ten miles from the compound and own over 2,000 cookbooks and this is one of the best I've ever seen. It has receipes that are easy to follow with ingredients that are readily available and is both current and traditional. It's the best addition to my collection in a long time.
Good Enugh to Eat!.......2007-05-22
the stories are fun tio read, and the recipes are easy to follow. I've tried a few, and they've been delicious, despite my limited culinary skills! I gave copies to my daughters-in-law for Mother's Day, and I've heard no complaints. It's beautiful to look at, too--and that alone makes it a worthwhile acquisition.
Fabulous Craftmanship!.......2007-05-09
It is apparent that a tremendous amount of work went into the development of this book. The pictures and narration is eloquent and extremely vivid. It's a wonderful book to have around the house for guests to look through and spark conversations, and for hosts to refer to for food preparations. This book is truly amazing!
Unbelievable Book!!.......2007-05-09
This book is a winner! It is filled with recipes to make any occasion special- from breakfast to dinner. I enjoyed reading the stories in the book. The recipes are easy to follow, and would make a lasting impression at any party or get together. I highly recommend this book for a gift or just to add to your collection!!
Customer Reviews:
excellent for reading, browsing, or as a reference book.......2007-08-27
Replete with timelines, maps, sidebars, and photographs, this is a wonderful resource. Whether you're watching a DVD of "I, Claudius" or reading Gibbon, it's a highly useful reference book where you can get a quick read on any emperor. Often, I'll pull it down from the shelf to research a particular emperor, then find myself still reading it an hour later.
What I like best about it are the photographed busts of the emperors which along with the lively writing really bring the Roman rulers to life. They also allow one to trace the change in Roman art from the idealized classicism of Augustus to the grim realism of the mid 3rd century's portrait of Philip the Arab when the Empire was falling apart to the stolid and blank cartoonlike portrait of Constantine the Great in the 4th century when the Empire had been restored, but had become Christian and more medieval.
A real gem, this book is highly recommended for fans of Roman history.
Great!.......2006-11-10
Excellent book, very few errors. Good source of information, very nice colorfull pictures and sketches. Worth the cost.
Chronicles Rule!.......2006-03-19
I bought a second one for a friend a week after the first copy arrived. Great, concise book.
A useful Reference document.......2006-02-01
This is a useful reference that places the lives of the Roman Emperors in chronological order. The detail is useful but not onerous and it is quite an easy read.
Great book for curious beginners in Roman history.......2005-02-21
This book is a superb addition to the library of history buffs. The book is short but packed with information on many different topics on the Roman Emperors. The book covers all Roman Emperors and does contest some myths commonly held regarding some of the more well-known emperors. The book spends a proportionate amount of time in the book compared to the emperor's rule and importance. In each mini-biography of rule, Scarre adds sections concentrating on interesting aspects of that person's rule. For instance, Augustus' section discusses the early lineage of emperors by tracing and discussing the Julio-Claudian family tree. Trajan's section has a two page insert on Trajan's Column. The book acts as a great reference of Roman leadership. Scarre adds hundreds of images consisting of both artistic renderings and archaeological finds from all periods of the Emperors' rule. Scarre ends with a highly abbreviated discussion of the last emperors of the split Roman empire.
Scarre adds at the end a select bibliography and a robust index.
The book is well bound and should be a long lasting addition to the library.
Book Description
According to Time magazine, Pakistan's President Pervez Musharraf holds "the world's most dangerous job." He has twice come within inches of assassination. His forces have caught more than 670 members of al Qaeda in the mountains and cities, yet many others remain at large and active, including Osama bin Laden and Ayman Al Zawahiri. Long locked in a deadly embrace with its nuclear neighbor India, Pakistan has come close to full-scale war on two occasions since it first exploded a nuclear bomb in 1998. As President Musharraf struggles for the security and political future of his nation, the stakes could not be higher for the world at large.
It is unprecedented for a sitting head of state to write a memoir as revelatory, detailed, and gripping as In the Line of Fire. Here, for the first time, readers can get a firsthand view of the war on terror in its central theater. President Musharraf details the manhunts for Osama and Zawahiri and their top lieutenants, complete with harrowing cat-and-mouse games, informants, interceptions, and bloody firefights. He tells the stories of the near-miss assassination attempts, not only against himself but against Shaukut Aziz (later elected prime minister) and one of his top army officers (later the vice chief of army staff), and of the abduction and beheading of Daniel Pearl -- as well as the forensic and shoe-leather investigations that uncovered the perpetrators. He details the army's mountain operations that have swept several valleys clean, and he talks about the areas of North Waziristan where al Qaeda is still operating.
Yet the war on terror is just one of the many headline-making subjects in In the Line of Fire. The full story of the events that brought President Musharraf to power in 1999 is told for the first time. He reveals new details of the 1999 confrontation with India in Kashmir (the Kargil conflict) and offers a proposal for resolving the Kashmir dispute.
He offers a portrait of Mullah Omar, with stories of Pakistan's attempts to negotiate with him. Concerning A. Q. Khan and his proliferation network, he explains what the government knew and when it knew it, and he reveals fascinating details of Khan's operations and the investigations into them.
In addition, President Musharraf takes many stances that will make news. He calls for the Muslim world to recognize Israel once a viable Palestinian state is created. He urges the repeal of Pakistan's 1979 Hudood law. He calls for the emancipation of women and for their full political equality with men. He tells the sad story of Pakistan's experience with democracy and what he has done to make it workable.
Customer Reviews:
Good read but sensationalist and opinionated!.......2007-06-01
Disclaimer - I support no political organization and do not have an 'Indian' mindset. I was born in Pakistani middle class, educated family (just like Musharraf) and consider myself 'Pakistani' to the core.
Review - This book is an interesting read but one should not expect a sitting head of state to publish a book that is 'honest'. For that matter, its naive to expect any politician to write a book that details facts honestly and analyzes them objectively.
The book is a narrative of the 'great' things Musharraf is doing for Pakistan. Its a narrative of self-praise and vitriolic spite for enemies. I would take all facts stated with a pinch of salt.
Finally, the timing of the book, when YOU are the sitting head of a country, is a way to make a quick buck with blatant disregard of the ruckus your self-eulogy will cause.
The facts speak for themselves:
1. Musharraf continues to remain a sole monarch where the Chief Justice, the guardian of law and order, is forced to resign by men in uniform.
2. Poverty and inflation are rampant at the same time. The rich drive inflation high and the poor become more poor.
3. Crime is rampant, people get mugged, shot at during daylight. Every urban family has experienced a car-jacking at gun point.
4. Corruption has permeated every government and semi-goverment organization. Religious clerics have declared bribery justified because without it nothing gets done.
This is the 7 year legacy Musharraf intends to leave behind, assuming that he intends to or forced to leave, ever. The same legacy left by Bhuttos' or Nawazs'
Read between the lines.......2007-05-27
Chinua Achebe once said that ,"Until the lions write their own history, story of hunt will only glorify the hunter", and in the dense forest of Pakistani politics no one can say who is hunting whom or who deserves the glorification? . Reading the chapter Coup where Nawaz Sharif is the hunter and Musharraf the glorious lion who will came out victorious luckily and eventually was real fun. As I did not approach the book in search of some political truth so i did not get my heart swell or mind numb in an attempt to weigh the truth________ burning In The Line of Fire! However i felt like coining new words such as 'stubborn confidence', 'humble pride', and above all 'dictocracy'. Despite his secret prayers to serve the country as a President( to seek sole power) he remains innocent as to why God has chosen him for this difficult task of steering the nation aright. Little did he know that with pains men come to greater pains and this was exactly what he had come to. And one wonders why a man has to be a president to serve his nation why not serve any other way...or perhaps its the juicy seat after all!
Worth appraisal are his views regarding education, economics , women's emancipation and tourism. No doubt they are well articulated but how you achieve them is as important as how you say it. Just hope he has wits enough to translate these ideas into practice rationally. I must quote :
"To speak now of the true temper of empire, it is a thing rare and hard to keep; for both temper, and distemper, consist of contraries. But it is one thing, to mingle contraries, another to interchange them." (Bacon)
I wish that a cultural unification is achieved through media and spirit of Nationalism is inculcated one that is in keeping with our ideologies. This is to say that Musharraf must take care in not interchanging national values and interest . Pakistan needs a mingling of contrary elements(such as secularism ,fundamentalism etc ) in order to produce a moderate decent state. After reading the book i could see that Musharraf wants to inculcate nationalism to project 'soft image' of Pakistan through the means of cultural unification and polarity. The thought is brilliant but on the other hand the wise man himself is seeing in to the vast breach between civilian politicians and Army and then again in the army itself!
Kargil event is one example of the gulf between the politicians and the army . I cant see how in a country where everything is divided good will can multiply? This is not provocative cynicism but awake one to the need of unity. Anyhow Kargil heroes i believe deserved the glorious justification that has been given to them. Moving on words the chapters narrating his choice to help America in anti-terror war were not convincing. The lines in the review that he is doing "single most crucial job in the global war on terror',... were mostly likely written to attract the readers all over the world. The fact however is that Musharraf's ambivalence has baffled all__the reader ,the Nation and the World! This is what i think makes him a true politician.
Take it with a grain of salt.......2007-05-23
Musharaff is an important figure, and he has an interesting tale to tell. He begins when he was about five years old, and Pakistan was breaking away from India. Musharaff tells of his life story, from the time he left India to live in what is now Pakistan, to the time he spent in Turkey, to his return to Pakistan, and his rise to power. Along the way are several frightening attempts on his life. The book is readable and informative.
The big question is whether you want to believe anything Musharaff says. I do not know enough to question any of the specifics, but some of what he says seems self-serving, e.g., his account of a border skirmish with India which he claims he "won" and his rise to power. My sense is that he is not to be trusted, but I just do not know enough to say. If you are willing to keep an open mind, however, it is an interesting read.
One small thing that bugged me -- Musharaff claims to be a math wiz, yet he keeps making the same simple mistake over and over. If something grew from 5 to 10, he says it grew 200%. I suppose if it "grew" from 5 to 5, he would claim it grew 100%. I know that sounds petty, but here is a man who claims to be best in his class in math, and to understand how to run an economy, and he keeps making the same silly mistake!
HE IS ARROGANT FOR GOOD REASON !!.......2007-04-30
It is interesting to note that most of the people writing the review on this book are indians . Their hatred for pakistan has deep rooted historical reasons. I am a pakistani born american living in California, and am well aware of what Musharaff has done for Paksitan and America alike.
He has single handedly redefined the fate of a nation.
Economic Progress (7% in the last 5 yrs)
Free Media (from one state owned tv channel to 43 pvt ones right now) Automobile Production rising from 40,000 cars per year in 2001 to 250,000 per annum in 2007.
Karachi Stock Exchange capitalisation was $5 billion dollars in 2001 . It stands at $57 billion right now.
These are all hardcore achievements. Which need to be celebrated. Thankyou !!! Mr. President .
Interesting perspective from the "other side".......2007-04-09
Being from the Indian side of the sub-continent, I bought this book to get a historical perspective from the other (Pakistani) side. The General writes with candor and provides interesting insights about his early life and upbringing. He also provides a unique perspective on the role of the army in the Pakistan national life. His narrative of Kargil had its elements of fiction and self-righteous posturing. Same with the treatment of the 1971 war. It was disappointing not to learn more about Zia's demise. Overall, an interesting read.
Customer Reviews:
Classic, but outdated.......2005-04-20
Neustadt's work has been praised by many other reviewers here, and I won't disagree that this is a classic that must be read by any serious student of the American presidency. Nonetheless, his thesis is quite outdated and has been superceded by more recent scholarship.
Neustadt's fatal flaw is to assume that the individual person in the office is the only thing that matters - if that person has the right set of skills, he can successfully bargain to get his goals accomplished. However, he doesn't pay enough attention to the role other institutions may play in constraining the president's ability to get what he wants, or how increased presidential power may give the president new resources with which to deal with the other branches.
Neustadt also assumes that all presidents before FDR were "pre-modern" and "mere clerks of the office." This perspective has been proven false in several respects. First off, Teddy Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson clearly acted like "modern" presidents in many respects. Secondly, there are numerous examples of "pre-modern" presidents acting like the modern ones: even the much-reviled Rutherford B. Hayes acted like the modern presidents when appointing executive branch officials. Others such as Andrew Jackson, James K. Polk, Lincoln, etc., are left out altogether.
If you want to read cutting-edge work that deals with these shortcomings, take a look at Stephen Skowronek's book on the presidency instead.
Machiavelli in the White House.......2004-03-24
This is indeed one the classics in the field of presidential studies. Neustadt's contribution, although somewhat commonsensical at first glance, is that despite the huge increase in formal powers that the president has acquired over the years, the most fundamental power the president possesses is the power to persuade.
The president must persuade other independently elected officials to do as he sees fit. This, in a city such as Washington DC where people have seen powerful politicians come and go over the years, is easier said than done. The president must be attuned to the nuances of political issues and not allow himself to become cut off from the political back and forth by his retinue of aides. He must retain the prerogative of making the final political decision and avoid becoming a clerk and simply ratifying the decisions made form by the staff and the bureaucracy. Further, he must define what is in his political self interest.
The president does so by keeping himself informed, by employing a system of information that allows him to be at the center and making real decisions; and by carefully husbanding the power and carefully cultivating the image of the president. While the president does posses the power to command, instances where he must rely on command are a prima facie failure of persuasion.
Finally, the president must ensure that others understand his power. He must be able to strike a modicum of fear into both his allies and his foes. In the political sense, this means the ability to hurt someone electorally. If I as the president can campaign against you and make it stick, you will be more likely to fear me and be persuaded by my requests.
This is not an easy read, but if you are involved as a student of politics you WILL read this book at some point. A classic and well worth the effort.
John C. McKee
One of three seminal works on the Presidency.......2000-04-26
Neustadt's book describes one of three theories about Presidents. Everyone knows that there is a balance of power between the judiciary, the legislative and the executive branches. Neustadt claims that the President is the weak leg of the stool and that he is unable to govern alone. He must use his powers of persuasion in order to convince the other branches of the government to do his bidding.
As part of a graduate program in political science with a concentration on the United States, you will read this book. If you don't, I am happy to go out on a limb and say that there is something wrong with your program!
This is one of the three seminal works available on the Presidency. There are others but this is one of the big guns. If you read this book, along with Corwin's "Presidential Power" and Rossiter's "The American Presidency", you'll understand all three theories of presidential power: the weak President (Neustadt), the strong President (Corwin) and the President wearing many hats (Rossiter). In reality, all three are correct.
It's interesting but a scholarly read. It's not a book you'd pick up for light after dinner reading.
still useful after all these years..........2000-04-19
The 1960 edition of Presidential Power has had a long shelf-life, and has grown over time to append chapters on post-Eisenhower presidents. But Neustadt's original thesis -- that presidents are Constitutionally weak, not strong, and that they therefore must leverage their bargaining advantages to the fullest if they want to be effective leaders -- still holds up. (Think the 104th Congress here.) It's hard to skim Neustadt -- he writes the old-fashioned way, in long, graceful sentences and paragraphs that actually hang together. But it's well worth while to settle in and get a sense of what it takes to be president. It's not clear that 2000 is going to be a good year for the American polity...
Don't stop half way through.......1999-04-07
About half of the way through the book, Neustadt seemed to be saying the same things over and over again. I almost stopped reading. However the incredible tidbits of advice in the first half encouraged me to continue. It was certainly worth it. The last 5 or 6 chapters were written over the period between the Kennedy assasination and the end of the Reagan Administration, allowing Neustadt to ammend many of his ideas from the first 8 chapters (originally published in 1960) making the book far more lively. A wonderful read for those with a weak knowledge of the last 50 years. If you know a lot about the Korean War, Bay of Pigs, or Iran-Contra, the book may be a little too much review. Otherwise it is fabulous.
Book Description
The austere president who presided over the Roaring Twenties and whose conservatism masked an innovative approach to national leadership
He was known as “Silent Cal.” Buttoned up and tight-lipped, Calvin Coolidge seemed out of place as the leader of a nation plunging headlong into the modern era. His six years in office were a time of flappers, speakeasies, and a stock market boom, but his focus was on cutting taxes, balancing the federal budget, and promoting corporate productivity. “The chief business of the American people is business,” he famously said.
But there is more to Coolidge than the stern capitalist scold. He was the progenitor of a conservatism that would flourish later in the century and a true innovator in the use of public relations and media. Coolidge worked with the top PR men of his day and seized on the rising technologies of newsreels and radio to bring the presidency into the lives of ordinary Americans—a path that led directly to FDR’s “fireside chats” and the expert use of television by Kennedy and Reagan. At a time of great upheaval, Coolidge embodied the ambivalence that many of his countrymen felt. America kept “cool with Coolidge,” and he returned the favor.
Customer Reviews:
Coolidge truly deserved a better biographer.......2007-09-26
As many small "r" republicans and libertarians have noted, Coolidge is truly underrated. Unfortunately this biography will not do overly much to boost his image or reputation.
Mr. Greenberg's political beliefs get in the way of a non-partisan review of Calvin Coolidge. He does not much like his hands off philosophy nor very obviously, his small government/non intereference beliefs. This gets in the way of real examination of the man and his accomplishments. Though he admits to admiring aspects of the man's personal life, he cannot extend that admiration to Coolidge's lack of ambition or vision as president.
From the begining of his national notice as governor of Taxachusetts, Coolidge is portrayed as a man who dithers from indecision rather than a man who refuses to overstep his potical boundaries (police strike of 1919). Greenberg labels Coolidege's propensity to delegate rather than do things himself as weakness rather than sound executive ability.
He does note Coolidge's accomplishments in the use of radio (the new media then)to actually contact the people in lareg numbers. His ability to use the medium let him avoid the Congress and go direct to the people, something few presidents have forgotten since. With this use of radio and regularly scheduled presss conferences, he was the first 'modern' president.
Greenberg's personal political philosophy gets in the way too many times of the process of looking into Coolidge. From the falsehood of tax cuts "costing the Treasury money better spent on infrastructure" (how about what taxpayers would have done with it?) to his deploring of Coolidge's decision to let the ICC languish rather than up its choking of the American railroads (FDR reversed that quickly enough, look at that result),Greenberg fails to keep his personal views from is often a pleasurable read. He does note very astutely that Coolidge was no true laissez faire man but rather on tariffs at least, a traditional Republican out for big protective tariffs.
He does grudgingly though note that Coolidge was a true believer in the limits of political power. It would be this belief that would cause him to declare that he would not run for reelection. As Coolidge himself said, "the office has lost its attraction for me..."
Perhaps its Coolidge's style, concern for the taxpayer, and overall simplicity that many Americans long for. For sure, many of us would love to see someone in office who did not have to pronounce on every event in the nation like our last few decades of leaders have gotten into the habit of doing...
Nice read.......2007-08-09
The author does a good job of explaining a little known president. I am always intrigued by the story behind the story and the author of this book does it well.
A Luke-Warm Look at Coolidge.......2007-02-14
Why is it that my interest in the executive office seems to fade following the presidency of Warren G. Harding? The answer probably lies in the fact that the man who succeeded Harding was remarkable only for one thing: for being so personally un-remarkable.
Calvin Coolidge was an accidental president, assuming that office upon Harding's death, and so he does warrant at least a passing nod of respect for the way he calmly entered the presidency and led the nation at a difficult time. Absent this, however, Coolidge barely registers a mention in most highschool history texts. And really, that may not entirely be his own fault, considering the fact that he was president during a peaceful time in the nation's history. There were no great battles to be faught, no important measures that called for a strong, activist leader.
The book is well written, though it may not generate much interest generally. It will find its place among readers who are interested in the presidency. The author, David Greenberg, does a fine job in reminding readers of a relatively little-known or understood man who became the 30th President of the United States. Coolidge was a good man. However, one cannot escape the fact that "Silent Cal" was a bland figure who really didn't do anything. The economy was in good shape during the 20's, and so Coolidge sat back and let things pass. He is remembered today (if at all) as little more than a place-holder--- someone who happened to occupy the Office of the President for awhile before turning over the ship of state to an equally bland figure (Herbert Hoover).
Silent but Steady.......2007-01-28
David Greenberg does a nice job of humanizing "Silent Cal". Against the backdrop of the roaring twenties, he brings a quiet but even handed Calvin Coolidge to life. The objective reader will likely find himself at least a modest fan of our only President from Vermont.
Book Description
Already the acclaimed choice of thousands of successful organizations including the American Library Association, the Fourth Edition features an all-new chapter that considers the ways the Internet and other state-of-the-art technologies have rewritten the rules of today’s meetings and conventions. This easy-to-use, paperback volume—the popular alternative to Robert’s Rules—is the most comprehensive, understandable, and logical guide to smooth-running, professional meetings. Alice Sturgis was a practicing parliamentarian and consultant to national and international professional and business organizations. She taught at Stanford University and the University of California.
Download Description
Already the acclaimed choice of thousands of successful organizations including the American Library Association, the Fourth Edition features an all-new chapter that considers the ways the Internet and other state-of-the-art technologies have rewritten the rules of today's meetings and conventions. This easy-to-use, paperback volume-the popular alternative to Robert's Rules-is the most comprehensive, understandable, and logical guide to smooth-running, professional meetings. Alice Sturgis was a practicing parliamentarian and consultant to national and international professional and business organizations. She taught at Stanford University and the University of California.
Customer Reviews:
Preferred to Robert's.......2007-03-27
If you can convince your orgaization to use this manual instead of Robert's, I say go for it! I find this manual much easier to use and more in line with what people expect to be the procedures for having meetings. The book updates old-fashioned language like, "I move the previous question" with the more understandable "I move to close debate". The book includes model Bylaws (useful for our Homeowner's Association which is in the process of revision), and a section that explains the differences between this book and Robert's, as well as tips for those whose organizations still use Robert's.
The book is much more readable than Robert's and tends to explain the basic principles a little better. There's a handy table inside each cover to help a member attending a meeting or a presider with proposing and handling motions.
Best Parliamentary Authority.......2003-05-10
The Standard Code is a better parliamentary authority then Robert's. It simplifies and modernizes parliamentary authority, making it more accessible to more people. Dump your RONR and get this work.
We don't wear wigs and robes! We're a casual, social club........2001-08-10
If you've always feared having to pull out the ol' Robert's Rules of Order because it was too detailed and complex for the casual social organizations in which you participated, help is here. Someone has realized that, because a group might need parliamentary procedures, it does not need the granularity required by The Parliament of England.
The Standard Code of Parliamentary Procedure is understandable, comprehensive, logical, refined, and efficient. As it should, it covers all the formal business of holding a productive and respectful meeting. But it also includes procedures that facilitate business for the less formal organization or club.
Necessary jargon is defined in a glossary. The "Often-Asked Questions" section covers many common situations and eliminates the need to look through the chapters for most answers. The book is up-to-date, addressing contemporary and often-encountered situations such as holding meetings and elections via the telephone or Internet.
As a bonus, it serves as a resource to those trying to form an organization. There are chapters to help you prepare documents (like bylaws and financial records) that won't be in conflict with legal and parliamentary procedures down the line. It explains the hierarchy of documents that govern an organization. There's even a section that helps explain some of the arcane procedures in Robert's Rules!
I'm grateful to have found this gem. It deals with all the situations that my clubs have encountered.
An alternative to Robert's Rules of Order.......1999-12-22
One of the best modernised book on the parliamentary procedures.
1st published in 1950, this 3rd edition is revised by the American Institute of Parliamentarians in 1988.Since this publication, many organisations have changed their bylaws to designate it as their parliamentary authority, among them are: American Medical Association and the American Dental Association.
It is the second most popular parliamentary authority after Robert's Rules of Order.
WHAT GROUPS MUST FOLLOW PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE? 'All organizations, such as business, cultural, religious, social, fraternal, professional, educational, labor, civil, scientific, medical, and governmental, are subject to the principles and rules of common parliamentary law. All profit and non-profit corporations and associations and the boards, counsels, commissions, and committees of government, must observe its rules.' Sturgis, p. 3.
This book is undoubtedly one of the best and comprehensive works. There is also a chapter which intended especially to aid persons unfamiliar with parliamentary procedure.
To quote Dr. Floyd M. Riddick, Parliamentarian Emeritius US Senate: 'It is understandable vocabulary makes it usable by anyone, not just experts in the field. All students of parliamentary procedure should have a copy in their library.'
THE Code of Parliamentary Procedure.......1999-11-28
Contains the complete standard code of parliamentary procedure, with each aspect thoroughly explained. This is the widely accepted procedure for meetings (ie United Nations). Very useful for keeping large meetings organized.
Amazon.com
This is the consummate guide to the political and personal lives of every U. S. president through Bill Clinton. Arranged chronologically, The Complete Book of U.S. Presidents elaborates not only on the major accomplishments and events of their terms, but also on less well-known details such as personalities, careers before the presidency, Supreme Court appointments, hobbies, ethnic backgrounds, and even extramarital affairs. Well-organized and packed with details, the book also includes a bibliography on each executive, including books written by and about them, along with useful and entertaining appendixes on the political composition of every Congress, presidential curiosities (such as the uncanny similarities between the lives and deaths of Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy), and a ranking of presidents. Whether you want to know the opponent of James Monroe in the election of 1816 or read some of Harry S. Truman's more memorable quotes, this is a most complete and thorough reference to each commander in chief.
Book Description
So completely updated, this edition will include brand new information about the life and election of the 1996 president—whoever that might be!—Take a factual look at each of our chief executives—their lives, loves, administrations, friends and foes, successes and failures. This totally comprehensive single-volume sourcebook is arranged in chronological order for easy reference and features a photographed portrait of each president. 43 photographs, 769 pages.
Customer Reviews:
The Hobo Philosopher.......2007-09-19
I have several books giving brief biographies of the presidents of the United states. I imagine that there are quite a few people like me who are interested in reading about U.S. Presidents.
This book is well worth the price. He gives a lot of accurate information in a few pages. All the info. is categorized and it is the same categories for each president - so comparisons can be made easily. The author, does of course have his favorites and some are looked at more favorably than some others. I would say that Clinton is rather heavily negative while Nixon is taken rather in stride but the facts are still the facts and they are there for each man no matter what the slant.
This is a very good volume for reference purposes.
Quite Simply, the Best Presidential Reference Book..........2007-07-29
Recently there have been a spate of books on presidential history and trivia. However, in my opinion this book is simply the best of the lot. First published during the Reagan Presidency and frequently updated since, "The Complete Book of U.S. Presidents" fits the title. Each President since Washington gets his own chapter. Each chapter features 25 or more sections providing extensive - and often surprising - details about each President. The sections range from standard fare such as "Physical Description", "Ancestry", "Father" and "Mother" to categories about each President's "Religion", "Recreation", and even "Extramarital Affairs" (if any). There are also sections on the President's opponents in each of their presidential campaigns, detailed biographies of their Vice-Presidents and Cabinet members, Supreme Court appointments, and brief histories of the major events of their presidency. There are even sections describing what each president did after they left the White House, when and how they died, and quotes by others praising and criticizing each president. If you've ever wanted to know about James A. Garfield's extramarital affair with a "Mrs. Calhoun", or Harry Truman's experiences as an artillery officer in World War One, or a detailed description of the Republican who opposed Franklin Roosevelt's bid for a second term in 1936, then this book will answer your questions, and then some. Quite simply, if you're going to buy just one reference book about America's Chief Executives, then this book should be it. The latest edition goes through the first year of George W. Bush's second term. Highly Recommended!
Solid Biographical Reference.......2007-07-28
Author William DeGregorio has done a nice job portraying the lives, loves, decisions, and biographies of each U.S. President. Readers learn more than just some basic biographical information. We also learn about what motivated them, their personal views and philosophies, their friends, loves, foes, romances, failures, successes etc. In short, we learn what made them tick. The book is readable, concise, and contains headings for the various categories. One weakness is that there is much less information on some of the more ancient chief executives, but this remains a valuable and easily-read reference.
A LOT OF GOOD RESEARCH.......2007-05-08
I've read each edition of this book through out the years. It is the best insight into the individual presidents with both personal and professional information. The book never shows bias and puts in the good with the bad. A must read for any history buff.I'm glad the author always updates his work.
The Complete Book of U.S. Presidents.......2007-03-09
Great book. Very informative with details such as favorite foods, etc.
Book Description
The First Ladies Fact Book is the definitive guide to the lives, achievements, triumphs, and tragedies of every first lady from Martha Washington to Laura Bush. Arranged chronologically for easy reference and illustrated throughout with artwork, photographs, and documents, it is a complete overview of everything you’d ever need to know: the major impact of their lives and the legacies they left behind; their personalities and personal habits; their early lives; their family backgrounds, siblings, children, friends, and foes.
What’s more,
The First Ladies Fact Book surpasses typical references, featuring selections of the most intimate correspondence of each first lady, from letters to their families to letters to their presidential husbands. Delightful surprises abound, including little-known information about the women’s hobbies, style of dress, habits of socializing, and peculiarities. The more than 700 evocative photographs include sixteen pages of color photography of first-lady fashion, making it a wonderful combination of solid reference and eyecatching visual history.
Customer Reviews:
Fascinating information!.......2006-11-10
I am teaching an extra-curricular high school class this semester on the history of U.S. presidents and wives. This book has some very interesting information on the wives of the presidents. I have found fascinating tidbits from this book which kept my students interested even when the presidents might have proven boring! I am enjoying reading the book on a personal note too!
Fascinating Stories.......2006-03-19
This huge book bollows Mr. Harris earlier book The Presidents Fact Book where he talked of the Achievements, Events, People, Triumphs, and Tragedies of Every President. Obviously in this book he is not talking about the presidents but their wives.
The first ladies have had their own share of the making of history. In recent years, Jackie Kennedy did a lot towards the creation of the Camelot image of the Kennedy years. Hillary Clinton is certainly remembered for her efforts towards creating universal health care.
These are just two small details of the lives of two first ladies. This book has over 700 pages about their lives, their interests, their activities in the white house and the way that they worked with their husbands to assist in the governance of the country.
And yes, there is a color section of pictures featuring mostly the clothes they wore.
Book Description
A full update of the popular Our Country's Presidents offers the same fascinating and comprehensive profiles of the nation's first 42 Presidents, plus an all-new profile of George W. Bush and, if applicable, his successor. In this family reference volume filled with period paintings and vibrant photographs, meet the country's most powerful statesmen and share the highlights of their administrations. Find out why George Washington gave up his life as a Virginia planter to lead a nation, and why John Tyler was nicknamed "His Accidency." Walk with the Presidents through wars, depressions, civil rights movements, and the race for space. Follow the party politics of Democrats, Republicans, and Whigs. Tour the White House where Abigail Adams hung laundry in the unfinished East Room, where the Garfield sons held pillow fights, and where silk-gowned hostesses still entertain royalty. Even meet the latest White House resident, newly-elected (or re-elected) President ?! New thematic spreads, new pictures, up-to-date historical context, and up-to-the-minute Presidential achievements make this new volume even richer than the last. Our Country's Presidents includes in-depth profiles on each of the nation's 43 (or 44) Presidents. Introductory paragraphs list each President's major accomplishments right up front before launching into a more detailed account of his life and administration. Background historical information is provided as needed and all political terms are explained. Raised quotes from letters, speeches, and diaries help reveal the men who have led the United States and the world. Periodic thematic spreads designed specifically to educate and entertain kids provide additional information on government, American politics, electoral process, First Ladies, kids in the White House, and more. Easy reference fact boxes include information on the Presidents' political parties, Vice Presidents, birth, inauguration and death dates, nicknames, and other fun facts. "Geographic scene" and "Selected landmarks" make the National Geographic connection. Sixteen all new pages allow room for the most recent events-from 2004 election results to a look at the war on terror. A foreword from the newly elected President of the United States sends a message to students straight from the Oval Office. An expanded introduction gives an excellent background on American democracy and the institution of the Presidency. Updated and expanded back matter offers students a full resource guide of places to visit, web sites, books, articles, and videos on the American Presidents. Several new thematic spreads add exciting information. "Presidents at War" traces the role of the Commander-in-Chief from the Revolutionary War to the war in Iraq. A spread on Vice Presidents takes a closer peek at the often-overlooked number two spot. "Presidential Landmarks" features a brand-new comprehensive map of Presidential sites to visit, from monuments to Presidential libraries to famous retreats of the First Families. The book is illustrated with spectacular photography and art of the Presidents' lives and times, including all the official portraits of the Presidents, additional official and personal photographic material, political cartoons, artifacts, plus numerous images from each historical era to give flavor of period. Historic spreads with photographic period montages place the Presidents in the context of their age. A handsome design and stunning reproduction of historic imagery makes the book a pleasure to look at, as well as to read. Our Country's Presidents is an authoritative volume on a topic of general interest as well as an essential resource for students who study American history.
Customer Reviews:
Great book!.......2007-05-14
This book on the Presidents is great for people of all ages. A great way to learn about our Presidents.
PRESIDENTS R US.......2007-02-11
If ever a book was designed for opening the eyes of Jr. High students, as well as adults looking for a bit of a "refresher course," this is it. It presents our presidents in a quick, concise manner, that makes one want to delve further into their lives and times. Without being ponderous, and/or preachy, it is informative, while also being one heck of a pageturner. Get it. Read it. Share it.
Tony Horowitz
[...]
History of our Presidents.......2007-01-10
This book on the Presidents is an outstanding book for people of all ages. A great way to learn who our Presidents were in the past and to learn about them. I would recommend this book to one and all...
Great overall book!.......2006-03-22
I bought this book for my second grader. He loves it. The book is colorful and interesting. It has a quick outline of each president as well as information on goverment and how it was formed. I even enjoy reading through it.
Very good book!.......2005-09-18
I am enjoying this book. It will give you a good glimpse of our presidents' lifes and dedication to our country. Highly recommended.
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Books Index
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General
| United States
| Americas
| History
| Subjects
| Books
Hell to Pay: The Unfolding Story of Hillary Rodham Clinton
Dereliction of Duty: The Eyewitness Account of How Bill Clinton Compromised America's National Security
Unlimited Access: An FBI Agent Inside the Clinton White House
The Case Against Hillary Clinton
Reckless Disregard: How Liberal Democrats Undercut Our Military, Endanger Our Soldiers, and Jeopardize Our Security
