Rating:  Summary: Simply The Truth Review: Black Americans have been fed the victimization lie for so long that it will be nearly impossible to change their minds. Larry Elders book is simply too logical for most Blacks to accept. He does not "fabricate" any of the facts in his book. I have learned them myself by simply observing life around me. Quite honestly, I am ashamed to have believed in the victimization lie for so long. It is time to stop letting self appointed Black leaders to speak on behalf of all Blacks. The Jacksons, Sharptons, Waters, Mfumes do not represent me or my family in any way shape or form. As neither does the Boxers, Kennedys or Clintons whom also feed off the notion that they have to help me, because I can't be successful without a handout ( meaning control ) from them!
Rating:  Summary: Can't wait for part 2. Review: If you are living in the greater Los Angeles area, you would be served equally well by listening to his afternoon drive time radio show. Perhaps this is why I found most of the topics discussed in the book repetitious and monotonous, having listened to Larry for at least the last 6 years. Everything in the book has been and continues to be hashed out on his radio show with relentless pursuit, perhaps not daily, but often enough to give the listener a firm grasp on any given socio-political issue. Having said that, Larry Elder does make an excellent case for his beliefs and is extremely cogent in presenting his ideas as well as the facts in whatever format, be it radio or print. Larry Elder is in my opinion, a shining light and a force to be reconned with. Sadly though, those individuals who need to hear his message the most are the very ones who are not listening/reading or simply flat out rejecting him for being a "sell-out", "Uncle Tom, "self-hater" and on and on. I happen to be black and am a strong supporter of Larry Elder, an "Elderado" if you will (Larry Elder fan). I have tremendous respect and admiration for his work, community activism, and for the strength of his convictions. Finally, after everyone has read this book, maybe there won't even be a need for a part 2, that is if we can read it with a clear and open mind and try some of the solutions presented.
Rating:  Summary: Should be "Ten of the things..." Review: Chicken Soup for the Conservative Soul!
Rating:  Summary: More libertarian than traditional conservative Review: I do not agree with all of Larry Elder's thoughts, but his arguments are very provacative and his writing is very pithy. Among conservative writers, Larry Elder is a very good---and fast---read. I was also impressed that he personally replied to my email.
Rating:  Summary: ...and some things you should. Review: Larry Elder writes this book with an direct hard-hitting style and posture. He uses a balanced combination of opinion, philosophy, and statistics to back his claims. I will say that I found the first several chapters on race issues to be fascinating. Larry writes about race issues from his own perspective as an African-American regarding the present state of race relations in America, and makes some excellent points. The subject matter is worth talking about openly, and if not for the comical and tragic "political correctness" movement of the Left, would likely open many lines of communication and improve race relations. If you are at all interested in this subject I strongly suggest you read this book. The liberal platform has actually (according to Larry) done far more damage to African-Americans than the supposedly racially biased political Right-wing views and policy. A must read. Sadly, the book goes downhill as it progresses, which is not to say it isn't well written, just - in my opinion - divergent from his logical stance in the first half. His take on legalizing drugs and gun control are way out to the Right, seem to defy common sense at times, and also appear to contrast with his views on race relations - when looked at from a non-political viewpoint. Overall an interesting book, and worth the read if just for the sections regarding race relations alone. The title is not misleading, although I would say it should more accurately state "The Five Things You Can't Say in America", as about half of his Ten are not that controversial, just well disputed.
Rating:  Summary: More Government is Not the Solution Review: This is a great book for those of you who are tired of the constant whining and the calls for bigger and bigger government to solve our country's ills. This is a perfect book for those of you who are doing the whining that Elders refers to. "The Ten Things You Can't Say in America" is a book about humanity and our inherent freedom and desire to better ourselves and our society without the government slowing things down. The constant theme throughout is a very simple explanation of who is best qualified to accomplish these things--ourselves. Larry Elders is a libertarian with some great ideas and a firm grasp of the way the world works. In fact, after reading this very convincing book, I am more inclined to call myself a libertarian than a conservative. It boils down to the fact that no matter how well intentioned our government social programs are, they only serve to do more harm than good, and we as caring humans can more effectively help our fellow man than the stifling government. For those who already understand the concepts of freedom and the natural good of humankind, you will enjoy this book and find many stories and facts that will further your beliefs. Others will find this book a challenge to the often accepted view of government as a savior, and fortunately Elders has provided extensive footnotes, graphs, tables and documentation to help in the awakening. Views on politics and government aside, everyone will find this book uplifting, as it is encouraging to know how the regular folks in this country can make such a difference. The power to change things and make this country a better place for everyone can be found in ourselves, not in blaming others, and perhaps this book will help some of you see the light. I am now an "Elderado!"
Rating:  Summary: Great Review: This is the perfect book for people of all ages. It provides another view of Americas social problems. A must for any educated, or socialy active person.
Rating:  Summary: The truth hurts (Liberals)!! Review: Great book. Very fast read, couldn't put it down. I don't suspect there will be to many left wingers reading this book. The truth would simply make their head explode. If they realized how they had wasted all there time and effort on liberal causes, only to have the light of truth shine on them, they just wouldn't be able to take it. Go Larry!
Rating:  Summary: The Real "Third Way" in American Politics Review: If you're like me, you often think that both Republicans and Democrats fail to offer solutions to the nation's biggest problems that can really work or even be viable in the long term. Larry Elder attacks America's problems with a Libertarian sword in a way that is convincing, refreshing, fun, and easy to understand. If you don't know a lot about Libertarianism or don't understand why "less is more" when it comes to federal government, then you must read this book. Elder convincingly illustrates how the federal government (and its hundreds of agencies) ACTUALLY MAKES MATTERS MUCH WORSE WITHOUT US REALIZING IT when it comes to health care, wages, unemployment, crime, poverty, the media, and freedom. Take an exciting glimpse at a way out of the current mess in Washington D.C. and discover why if we choose our leaders and policies wisely, America's best years are yet to come.
Rating:  Summary: Facts? Review: I'll admit right off the bat that I haven't read this book. But someone just quoted some "facts" from this book to me, that I happen to know are inaccurate. I can't swear that she quoted Elder correctly, but if she did, then I would suggest that all of you who enjoyed this book so much go back and do your own research. If the man is drawing his conclusions from false premises, then his arguments aren't worth a thing. I'll admit that I'm a liberal, but I have no problem with open dialogue with conservatives who get their facts and figures correct. But how can you even begin to disagree with someone who isn't dealing with reality? (And before you call me a hypocrite, yes, I'm going to go and read this book for myself now...)
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