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A special thank-you to Macmillan and Goodreads for providing an ARC for me to review!
Title: Bernie Sanders Guide to Political Revolution
Premise:
The focus of this book is to share Bernie Sanders’ views on the major political issues of the day and the ways he would address them. He seeks to inform readers about the broken policies and practices in the areas of a livable wage, taxes, Wall Street, health care, higher education, immigration, climate change, and policing and criminal justice.
My thoughts:
I think that this book accomplishes exactly what it set out to do: share Bernie’s political views and solutions with a younger generation. The text and explanations are clear and concise, breaking down the issues into language which most young people would understand. If you’re older or looking for a particularly in-depth analysis and explanations, you’ll be disappointed, but remember that’s not the aim of this book.
I had heard Bernie’s views leading up to the election of course, but this is a quick and easy way to learn about his political views. The problems he talks about in each area are enlightening and it’s good to be informed about the problems our country is facing and why. Quite frankly, I got angry and/or depressed after reading each chapter. There is so much injustice in this country, especially being perpetuated by corrupt big business and political powers. The rich really do have a racket going on in this country and the little people are at a major disadvantage in righting those wrongs. So, I wouldn’t recommend reading this right before bed because you’ll probably get angry and sit there fuming in bed while you should be sleeping.
I think Bernie’s aim is not to get people depressed and feeling helpless, but to encourage them (especially young people) to get involved in politics. While it may seem overwhelming because there are so many areas of corruption, we can each choose one area that we feel strongly about and focus our energies and efforts there. One person cannot do everything, but each one of us can do something. A lot of little people working to make change will add up to large changes in our society and political system. I think Bernie Sanders is a politician with heart who keeps the well-being of everyday people in mind. That’s a rare thing today.
I recommend Bernie Sanders Guide to Political Revolution to young people who would like to learn more about the major political issues of the day, and see how Sanders would address those issues. It’s also appropriate for adults who are looking for a basic, concise book about Sanders’ views.
A favorite quote:
“I believe that the government has a moral responsibility to provide for the vulnerable–the children, the elderly, the sick, and the disabled. But I do not believe that the government should burden taxpayers with financially supporting profitable corporations owned by some of the wealthiest people in this country. That’s absurd.” (p. 10)
Rating: 3 1/2 Stars
Until next time…
Lori
Book Buffoonery 