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Favorite Readings
The following found a prominent place on my reading list recently. Share your thoughts or comments about these or other readings that offer insights on public policy issues by clicking here.
The Forgotten Man: A New History of the Great Depression by Amity Shales. This substantive book offers a fresh perspective on the politics and economics surrounding the Great Depression. Using insightful analysis and individual stories, Shales challenges conventional wisdom and forthrightly discusses what did and did not work with FDR’s New Deal. With our nation facing tough economic and financial challenges, this book is a timely read.
Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game by Michael Lewis.
The federal government could take a cue from the Oakland A’s manager Billy Beane, the subject of this book. Beane did his homework - analyzing vast amounts of statistics - and found a formula that achieved a winning record with one of the smallest budgets in Major League Baseball. A fascinating read regardless of whether you are a baseball fan!
Lincoln on Leadership: Executive Strategies for Tough Times by Donald T. Phillips
While this book focuses on Lincoln’s leadership during the Civil War, it highlights strategies and executive management approaches that transcend that historical time period. All leaders, including government, non-profit, and civic, can benefit from this inspiring and educational book.
Presidential Courage: Brave Leaders and How They Changed America 1789-1989 by Michael Beschloss
Well-known historian Beschloss structures this book as a series of chapters about various presidents and the challenges they faced. Each president – including Jackson, Lincoln, FDR, Truman, Kennedy and Reagan – demonstrated personal courage in trying times and helped preserve and shape our nation.
Creating the United States. Exhibit at the Library of Congress.
The Library of Congress just unveiled an interactive exhibit focusing on our nation’s founding documents: the Constitution, Bill of Rights and Declaration of Independence. If you are in Washington, D.C., visit the exhibit yourself and be amazed. From a computer anywhere, visit the online version of the exhibit. Exploring the exhibit will give you a fuller understanding of the crafting of the documents that form the cornerstone of our democracy.
Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap... and Others Don't by Jim Collins.
In this painstakingly researched book, Collins explores the question: can a good company become a great company? He concludes it is possible and identifies several criteria that are the keys to such success. While Collins’ work focuses on the private sector, public sector executives can also benefit from the wisdom and advice offered in this engaging read.