Tad R. Callister

This is a really rough book to clearly review.

The book proposes an over-arching idea but really seems like a series of essays relating to the topic, connected with vague sentences. I think Callister can do better. In fact, I know he can. He still brings in literature, history, research, etc., and winds them together around each idea, but the overarching sweep is missing. In some instances, I would have chosen different examples, in some instances I saw legitimate logical arguments that were not pointed out, and, in others, I see some holes that could have been filled with research that I know exists. Not to mention that one of his points was somewhat indirectly disproved by some of his examples.

I wish that he had addressed racism or had a guest author address it and expanded on his comments regarding the flag. I also somewhat disagree with his take on political correctness. I believe it is possible to be appreciative, kind, and honest---though it may take work.

And yet... I would give it 4 stars. Why? Well, the references to A Man For All Seasons don't hurt. I am a known sucker for that film.



As a lawyer, his take on courts and cases were fascinating. I also think that there are few that would disagree with his points regarding politicians.

But I just went through some of my reviews for a certain author's books that present some of the same arguments and research and destarred them. Because this author(not Callister) played on emotion and position to get his stars. Callister does not do this. Though it's not perfect, it is boldly so. Or, as Tolkien supposedly said:



And, here, Callister exhibits and exudes none of the fair appearance that the other author does. He is honest and creates no dark corners.… (más)