History

Using Kit Carson as the anchor, Sides combines descriptions of life in the early days of the west, President Polk's violent enacting of Manifest Destiny, and the Navajo's fight to maintain their lands and way of life. I loved how it felt like reading a novel but really taught me about an important point in American History. -Nici

The original "Boy's Club", one can picture each man on their individually unique, ambitious, and sometimes ruthless journey to success and fame. A detailed lesson in history as well as the ethics of the business world. -Annie

Kurlansky takes on a much broader subject in this book than he has in the past (Cod, The Basque History of the World) and presents us with a ground-breaking history of non-violence--not as a form of pacifism, but as a world-changing technique that offers a greater promise of protection than any military advancement. Like Kurlansky's previous books, this one is very original and well-written with important lessons that can be put to good use in today's world. -Nici

Chalmers Johnson convincingly and eloquently traces the rise of American militarism, from its first colonial aspirations during the war with Spain to the vast network of permanent military garrisons throughout the world, carrier task forces, and the enormous amount of resources devoted to "defense." This is paralleled to the rise and fall of past empires, particularly Rome. The picture is tragic, but Chalmers gives the democratic-minded populace of America an inspiring call to action. -Jordan