by Peggy Noonan
First published 2008
Peggy Noonan examines America during a period of bitter political warfare and partisan anger. The Wall Street Journal columnist observes how the terrible attacks of September 11th initially united Americans as they had not been since the Second World War. Yet the following years under Bush created deep national fractures that proved damaging and unhealthy. Noonan argues that Americans have grown weary of tired partisan battles and manipulative campaign tactics designed to deepen these rifts. She contends the public mood demands political transformation, though politicians lag behind this shift. The nation yearns for leaders capable of inspiring greatness and solidarity, much like those who guided America through battles against fascism and communism. Writing in the tradition of Tom Paine's Common Sense, Noonan presents an urgent appeal for citizens to recognize each other with fresh eyes and unite behind the next President. She maintains that America's character stems not from the obstacles it confronts, but from how it chooses to meet them. The book calls for Americans to address shared challenges collectively by rediscovering their national identity.
Genres: american, political-science, non-fiction, 21st-century, current-affairs, american-history
Vibes: intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: call-to-action, social-commentary
Setting: America, United States
Period: September 11th, Bush Administration
208 pages · Hardcover · Harper