Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

Broke, the latest release by Beck, is a surprisingly entertaining text to be sure. It's engaging, easy to read and designed as an unapologetic agenda...Beck style. It's also packed full of information that is sure to create a "teachable moment" among even the most vocal opponent. As a college instructor and business writer, Beck is one of the personalities that tends to draw a lot of attention and followers/critics; for that reason I attempt to stay somewhat up to date with what he/others are doing however, I'm not a "fan" of Beck per se. Although I consider him in the realm of "entertainer" rather than serious economic or political leadership, Beck has done a very real service with the publication of this book if for no other reason than the historical and educational value of the first 2/3 of the book. Also, despite the fact that this is an early review of the book (versus my own personal opinion and/or agenda), please note that this is a verified purchase unlike others. If you want to debate the pro's and con's of the "agenda", the tea party, republicans vs democrats, liberals versus conservatives etc...this is NOT that review. Basics About the Book First of all, this is a 400 pages of facts, figures, charts, explanations, history, examples and action-steps. It contains plenty of resources, ample visual impact and a clear concise style that encourages the reader to continue reading. This is the hardcover version with dust-jacket and I'm happy to say that it was well designed for maximum readability and audience appeal. Whether you are the type that sits down and reads 400 pages at once or just likes to browse a bit here and there, this book will work equally well. Plenty of conversation with oodles of tidbits and factoids. Who Should Read Beck Critics - Those that dislike Glenn Beck will not be disappointed - he provides plenty of fuel to fire-up even the most reserved of his critics. In fact, even hard core Beck advocates are likely to take issue with a few items here and there due to "spin" so commonly used by Beck when interpreting information and data. Like the old adage, there are lies, d-mnded lies and statistics...the cited data is often used for/against both sides of a debate, definitions are distorted to the benefit of both sides and the usual chicanery is alive and well throughout the book. Yes, I cringed at times but let's face it, that is a daily event for most Americans that haven't already tuned out entirely. Critics of Beck will find ample opportunity to criticize the details, the proposed plan of action and even the man himself. However, there is a good chance that even the most critical opponent of Beck will actually learn something from this book! It is interesting and packed full of relevant historical detail as well as food for thought. Beck Fans - If you enjoy Beck, this may be his best book to date. It's packed with information and is unapologetic in the proposed agenda set forth. It's funny. It's informative. It's entertaining. It's educational. Without a doubt you will want to buy a copy for yourself, a couple to loan out to friends and at least one to keep on hand for naysayers and critics. Unless they are so closed to anything other than their very own agenda, every thinking person is likely to find something of interest in this book. Yes, there is slant or angle but that is true of every "side". What does come through (quite clearly) is the position taken by Beck and his supporters as well as the reasons and rationale. Agree or disagree, it's worth reading. Teens & Those New to Politics, Economics, Tax Issues etc. - Anyone with an open mind is likely to enjoy this book even if you don't agree...or actually disagree...with Beck and his conclusions. This would be a great tool for teens, home schooler and others that would like to initiate an open conversation about what it taking place (or not) in this nation. The historical perspective alone is well written, filled with facts and open enough to spur endless debate. What is Covered With over 400 pages packed to the brim, this book provides a big bang for the buck! It's roughly divided into three parts: Part I - Part I begins with ancient history, the foundation of this nation, monetary policy of Hoover, FDR, Reagan, Bush, Clinton, Bush II and now Obama. Part II - Covers the crime of the century, the cover up and "the murder weapon". Part III - The Plan. This is Becks' call for action, response to critics and his understanding of the role religion, government, family etc plays in shaping our nation. Citations, Resources etc...