Lisa Reviews Andy Andrews

I have a confession! One that is very hard to own up to, especially when you consider my profession.  I have not completely finished a book – read every page, cover to cover – in, oh, probably a year. Now I do listen to audio books all the time. In fact, much to my family’s dismay, I have been known to sit in the car for a half hour or so listening to the last few chapters of the latest Patterson, Grisham, Evans, or whomever  I am “reading” at the time. And yes, I know listening does not, in most people’s eyes, equate reading but that is the pattern I have fallen into of late.  I have excuses, lots of them. But that is neither here nor there.

Several years ago, I stumbled on a little known author from the South who quietly slid onto the best sellers list a few times but never really made it to the more popular ranks.  It has been a couple of years since I have read Andy Andrews, the last book being The Noticer, which I loved so much I gave all three of my children copies and made them promise to read it.   Andrews writes thought provoking, insightful stories that are mostly labeled “self-help/advice” and I normally steer away from this type of author.   But, while this label may be true to some extent, I rather think his stories are true lessons from the past laced with enough possibilities of the future that he crosses several genres. But I absolutely love Andrews’ books.  I have read each one and some more than once.  I am captivated by the stories from history and their links to our present and future.  He makes me think.

How Do You Kill 11 Million People? Why the Truth Matters More than You Think

 

Well, of course the title caught my attention.  Then, because I am still in my horrid pattern of not reading (actually turning the pages), its size grabbed me.  It is about the size of a postcard and only eighty-four pages, including author interview, reader’s guide, resources, and bibliography.  I read it in about 15 minutes, cover to cover!  I will not delve into much detail about the book, simply because there is no excuse for anyone not to take 15 minutes to read it.  Instead, I will list my favorite quote from the book.  It is actually a quote from President James A. Garfield in his centennial address to Congress in 1876. “Now, more than ever before, the people are responsible for the character of their Congress.  If that body be ignorant, reckless and corrupt, it is because the people tolerate ignorance, recklessness, and corruption. If it be intelligent, brave, and pure, it is because the people demand these high qualities to represent them in the national legislature.”  Then, he added, “If [one hundred years from now] the next centennial does not find us a great nation… it will be because those who represent the enterprise, the culture, and the morality of the nation do not aid in controlling the political forces.”

Wow, see I told you, lessons from the past laced with possibilities (good or bad) for the future.

So, take 15 minutes and read this “little” book.  It will make a BIG impression.

And, yes we have it here at FRANKLIN COUNTY LIBRARY.  We also have more books from Andy Andrews!  Read them all.  You won’t be disappointed.