Book Reviews

Sam Pizzigati's book, “Greed and Good: Understanding and Overcoming the Inequality that Limits Our Lives,” effectively critiques the growing wealth inequality in America, arguing that current economic structures disproportionately benefit the wealthy, harming society as a whole.

He demonstrates that a strong middle class, rather than a concentrated wealthy class, is crucial for economic prosperity and social well-being.

More importantly, he gives us an analysis to use to develop strategies to do something about it.

Sam Pizzigati's book, "The Rich Don't Always Win," is particularly relevant today, as the U.S. has transitioned from an oligarchy to a plutocracy, with the wealthy elite wielding significant influence. Ken Bedell argues that individuals can and should challenge systemic inequities. History shows us that the broad efforts of activist groups, ordinary people at the local level, were essential in defeating the plutocrats in the early 20th century. Bedell urges readers to learn from history to advocate for a fairer society today and moving forward.

Two Harvard professors have written books that explain how and why the Republican Party has been taken over by far right extremists. They show that the structure of our government under the Constitution not only makes this possible, but the Constitution is designed to facilitate and even encourage extremism. They call on Americans to recognize that the Constitution is not designed for a democratic government.

This book focuses on the organizing and leadership of African Americans and Latinx in the struggle to become full participants in the economic and political life of America. And Ortiz also tells the other side of the story of the ways white Americans have stood in the way of those aspirations.

What does a vision for the future look like if it is grounded on a commitment to human rights around the world?

Julissa Arce, author of “You Sound Like a White Girl: The Case for Rejecting Assimilation” is not waiting for white people to change. She celebrates that “together – Indigenous, African American, Latino, and Asian communities – we are creating change.” That change is to become “We the People of the United States.” She proposes this strategy: “‘In order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice,’ we must actually seek justice. Assimilation, diversity, inclusion – this is not justice. Representation is justice. Equality is justice. Intersection is justice. Freedom is justice.”

Whether you want a book for a gift or you want something to read yourself, there are literally hundreds of books about racism to choose from. Here are a few suggestions.

Annette Gordon-Reed is a history professor at Harvard University who has written a book that every American should read, and it should be required reading in every high school. Her special gift as a historian is to describe the complexity of past events so that they reveal the people who made them. Then, as a social commentator, she shows how Texans and Americans are products of history by sharing stories about her family and herself.