How Bush Rules: Chronicles of a Radical Regime : Book Review

"How Bush Rules" by Sidney Blumenthal is a critical analysis of the presidency of George W. Bush. Blumenthal, a journalist and former senior advisor to President Bill Clinton, provides a comprehensive examination of Bush's leadership style and governing philosophy.

The book explores various aspects of Bush's rule, including his approach to foreign policy, the economy, and civil liberties. Blumenthal argues that Bush's presidency was characterized by a strong belief in executive power, which led to policies that some believed were harmful to American democracy. He offers insightful insights into the decision-making processes behind significant events like the Iraq War and the response to Hurricane Katrina.

Blumenthal's writing is engaging and thought-provoking, providing readers with a wealth of information and connecting different aspects of Bush's presidency. Despite his critique, the author supports his arguments with solid evidence and a deep understanding of the political landscape during Bush's time in office.

One of the book's strengths is the inclusion of firsthand accounts and interviews with key figures from the Bush administration. These insider perspectives offer valuable insights into the decision-making and internal dynamics within the White House.

Overall, "How Bush Rules" offers a thought-provoking examination of George W. Bush's presidency, shedding light on his motivations, policies, and their consequences. Blumenthal's journalistic expertise and access to insider sources make this book an insightful and informative read for those interested in understanding the complexities of American politics during the early 2000s.

What are readers saying?

Sidney Blumenthal's book "How Bush Rules" has garnered mixed reviews. The book delves into a detailed analysis of George W. Bush's presidency and his administration's policies, serving as a critique of his leadership.

Some reviewers appreciate Blumenthal's extensive research and insightful analysis. They commend the author for providing a comprehensive account of Bush's presidency, discussing key events and decisions in a clear and thought-provoking manner. These readers find the book to be an important resource for understanding the political climate during Bush's tenure, as it explores both the motivations behind his policies and their consequences.

However, other reviewers express disappointment with "How Bush Rules." They argue that Blumenthal's analysis is heavily biased and fails to offer a balanced perspective on Bush's presidency. These critics believe that the author's political leanings undermine the book's credibility, turning it into more of a political opinion piece rather than a fair examination of Bush's leadership.

Some readers also highlight the book's dense and academic writing style, which they find challenging to engage with. They struggle with the abundance of information and the lack of a clear narrative structure, making it difficult to understand the content.

Additionally, a few reviewers mention that while "How Bush Rules" offers a critical assessment of Bush's presidency, it falls short in providing alternative solutions or constructive suggestions for improvement. They feel that the book tends to dwell too much on the failures of the administration without offering a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of governance.

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