Graham Topp

A simple diary from a small minded old man

Revisado: 06-14-07

This is not an impressive presidential diary. It has little or no detail, no discussion, no insights. Basically, he just lists what he did on a given day. "Ate breakfast, then had meeting".
The diaries do, however, confirm some very unflatering stereotypes. Reagan praises Zaire's Mobutu and the Philippine's Marcos. He shows incredible ignorance about South Africa, writing that Tutu is "naive" to think that sanctions could ever work. He follows the polls avidly. He never analyzes his policies or decisions, rather just discusses how they affect his polling results. He blames the press for everything. He can't understand why anyone would find his Bitburg visit offensive. He makes simple minded decisions, then stubbornly sticks to them, regardless of the facts. Sounds eerily familiar.
He visits China. The only thing he mentions in his diaries is the food, and his ability to use his chopsticks.
Overall, these diaries are nothing but simple lists of his daily activities. If you're looking for any depth, this is really the wrong place.

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A Great Book

Revisado: 09-26-06

I enjoyed the House of War very much. It is certainly a long listen, but it managed to keep my interest throughout.
Of course, while the ideas contained within represent a leftist viewpoint (as the author readily admits), his insight into Truman's decision to bomb Japan and the concept of "dehousing" industrial workers is really worth a listen.
I think his view of the Cold War is a bit one sided. He seems to suggest that all Soviet behaviour was based reactions to American paranoia and ignorance.
Overall, this is a well researched, well presented book.

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Happy it was Over

Revisado: 02-27-06

This is not a good book. The protagonist is a cardboard superman, who escapes danger just in time. The story is tired - innocent spy who has everyone against him is helped by love interest.
I'll admit it has a nice twist, but by the time it came I was hoping against hope that Amber would finally expire.
Sadly disappointed. Give it a miss.

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Repetitive

Revisado: 08-23-05

I found the recurring "world is flat" thesis thoughtful and thought proking, but it's repetition became irritating after a few hours. Of particular note was Friedman's look into Walmart's supply chain method.
I would recommend this book, but beware of being constantly reminded of the phenomenon of "flatness".

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Mildly Entertaining

Revisado: 05-07-05

I found this book mildly entertaining. I enjoyed the characters and the setting was well described, but the plot was really weak. The "guardian angels save all" theme was lame at best, proving to be a disappointment.
This is the second, and final, Koontz book I've read.

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Life of Pi a Wonderful Novel

Revisado: 12-04-03

I enjoyed this book tremendously. Very funny as well as thought provoking. A definite read.

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Great Book

Revisado: 07-17-03

This was a truly enjoyable listen. Littel builds the plot well, and follows well-constructed, believeble characters through decades of intrigue.
I was very impressed indeed, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this title to listeners.

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