Book Reviews

This week I am entering into the world of books. As many of you know, I love reading. I plow through both reading and audio books relentlessly. I can’t get enough. Every now and again, I get into a book that makes me pause. That was the case with Erik Larson’s ‘The Demon of Unrest’. I read it on the advice of a colleague and was absolutely blown away. The narrative grabbed me and took me on a journey of intrigue in the months that preceded the Civil War. It was amazing to me to see the many parallels that exist in our society still today. It begs the question, are we advancing or retreating? As an educator, I couldn’t help but reflect on the relevance of history and how important it is to prepare the next generation with knowledge to face similar challenges. Throughout the book, the author discusses political division, social inequality, and the fast pace of technological change. This is truly no different than today. 

 I thought the most interesting part was how the author discussed the importance of the leader within: The moral and ethical conundrums that we all face navigating our own objectives. When faced with challenges, do we rise up to meet it, or do we wilt like a flower in the sun. The lesson of integrity is so important today. Certainly the greatest theme addresses change in the Southern States. No doubt, change was coming and the book details how different social groups and people responded to it. Some people avoided it like the measles, others faced it. Those that faced it and accepted change, in the end, were better off. Those that resisted change, were met with a difficult existence or much worse, sad end. This is so true with our personal lives, our work experiences, and society in general. By studying history, we can see that change, while difficult, can also lead to growth and innovation.

Then while reading the book, the emotions got involved and I was tangled up in the story. I kept asking Why? Why did that have to happen? Why…Why.WHY! It’s not like the outcome was a big surprise. I know the winners, but the stupidity of it all. I have traced my family tree and have found ancestors that have fought on both sides. Thankfully they survived so I could be here, but I still ask the questions. The answer to the Why is, I guess, stubbornness. More than a belief, more than economic realization, it boiled down to a way of life and an unwillingness to change. Just NUTS! It relates so much to the current social climate that it was truly scary. Not that we are on the verge of a North/South battle anytime soon, but just the idea of social unrest, underserved populations, the erosion of ethical and moral conduct, and the distrust of elected officials. It’s all in the book. 

I know, I know, I sound like a book ad. I really don’t write reviews of books because when I read them, they become mine. What I take from them, I get to keep. For this book however, I took away deep thought and strong emotions. I want people to read it and experience the same. For me, it was more than reading because I have to stop to digest. That in turn, started my thoughts and emotions, which prompted me to dive into it further. So, for this one, I say thank you to my colleague for encouraging me to read it. It was an absolutely riveting read. Next on the reading list is another from Erik Larson, “In the Garden of Beasts” and then one from Amor Towles, “A Gentleman in Moscow”. I’m sure I’ll have something to say about these as well. Stay tuned. This weekend's weather is perfect to pick up a book and read outside. Whatever you do, have an enjoyable time. 

Until next time...