The apple doesn't fall as far from the tree as George Bush would like

[Squigglenob]

"FDR is a model presidential biography," writes ubiquitous book reviewer Jonathan Yardley of Jean Edward Smith's new book. He also wrote a 2001 biography that completed the rehabilitation of Ulysses S. Grant's reputation--basing presidential decisions on principles: what a concept! Between those two books, Smith has had almost as many "magisterials" (one of a book reviewer's most supreme--and hackneyed--plaudits) thrown his way as Robert Caro with his biographies of Robert Moses and LBJ.

Turns out Smith also wrote a lesser-known book called George Bush's War. Think of it as a companion piece to Bob Woodward's Bush at War.

According to Kirkus Review's summary on Amazon, "in this volatile study, America's adventure ... was not a crusade for freedom but a checkpoint on the personal agenda of George Bush, who disregarded constitutional restrictions on presidential power and cynically manipulated the public..."

Read more of Russ Wellen's post at Scholars & Rogues.

[mediaman007]

1. Worst American Leadership...Ever!

Cheney's concept: We only need half the votes plus one.

Rove's tactic: Use 9-11 and War on Terror as political tools.

Bush's* weakness: Using America's greatness for his personal needs.

the administrative team: Blind Loyalty, serving the party before the country.