Wednesday, January 25, 2012

One Man's List of Creditable and Influential Political Columnists

I skimmed through Christopher Hitchens last book titled Arguably. The book covers a series of essays on politics, people, culture and religion. I admire Hitchens' intellect and his way with the English language. I also admire (maybe more) his speaking skills and ability to think quickly and with wit on his feet.

In addition to Hitchens, I also enjoy the thoughts and columns of these columnists who write about current affairs, politics and culture. I don't list them in any particular order but I admit that Maureen Dowd is my favorite columnist and writer. She is great at exposing hypocrisy and weak arguments. You can find her articles in the New York Times.

  1. Maureen Dowd

  1. Frank Rich

  1. David Brooks

  1. Andrew Sullivan

  1. EJ Dionne

  1. Kathleen Parker

  1. Thomas Friedman

  1. Dana Milbank

  1. George Will

  1. Michael Smerconish

  1. Joe Klein

  1. Juan Williams

  1. Gail Collins

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Best Book to Understand the History and Horror of World War II

Max Hastings has written an excellent book on the Second World War, Inferno, The World at War 1939-1945.  He recounts the war years not just from the prospectives of the leaders of the warring countries and soldiers who fought it but also from the civilians and innocents caught in the middle. It's a long book (651 pages) but a compelling (if not depressing ) read.

There are hundreds of stories about the depravities of war, including cannibalism, rape, executions and senseless violence. You'll read about the best of men under horrible circumstances and the worst possible behavior that can be exhibited by soldiers of all countries.

Hastings writes fairly. He cites the brilliance and stupidity of Generals and political leaders whether they were part of the Axis or the Allies.

This book is gritty and very honest. I've read a number of other World War II histories (including some earlier Hastings books). This is the best.