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The Audacity of Hope by Barack Obama - Book Review

About.com Rating 3.5

By Erin Collazo Miller, About.com

The Audacity of Hope by Barack Obama

Audacity of Hope - Courtesy Crown

The Bottom Line

*Review Written in 2007

Barack Obama is one of the hottest political figures in the country, and has announced he will be running for President in 2008. Precisely because Obama may become President, The Audacity of Hope is an interesting read. I recommend The Audacity of Hope to anyone who hopes to understand Obama's self-proclaimed new style of politics.

Pros

  • Barack Obama articulates his vision for the country clearly and intelligently
  • The Audacity of Hope provides a good opportunity to size up Obama
  • It is refreshing to read a political book that makes some attempt to unite Republicans & Democrats

Cons

  • The chapters are long and broad -- it is sometimes hard to pay attention to a long, general analysis
  • If Obama were not a political star, this book would not be very interesting

Description

  • The Audacity of Hope is Barack Obama's vision for the country--where he thinks we are going & how policies should change
  • Chapters: Republicans & Democrats, Values, Constitution, Politics, Opportunity, Faith, Race, World Beyond Our Borders, Family
  • Obama gives background to each topic, providing overarching ideas and suggestions.
  • There are not detailed policy plans in this book. This is more about the general direction Obama thinks we should follow.

Guide Review - The Audacity of Hope by Barack Obama - Book Review

The Audacity of Hope is an optimistic look at America. Obama uses the book to share his perspective on America's history, present situation, and the challenges the country must overcome in order to have a prosperous future. Throughout the book, Obama makes an effort to point out strengths and weaknesses in both parties' positions, although he admits upfront that as a Democrat his opinions will naturally fall more in line with liberal politics.

Indeed, for all Obama's peacemaking effort, many of the policy changes he champions in The Audacity of Hope sound like standard Democratic fare. He does, however, pull in from hardline rhetoric. His gracious, accommodating and hopeful tone provide a pleasant new package for ideas that may not be entirely original.

Despite the fact that The Audacity of Hope is not groundbreaking in its policy recommendations or comprehensive in its assessment of issues facing Americans, it is still a worthwhile read for anyone interested in learning more about Barack Obama and what he believes. After finishing the book, I felt as if I knew the man and what he hopes to accomplish in public office better. It was nice to have such a clear statement from a candidate who may become the next President of the United States.

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