"The Gatekeeprs" by Chris Whipple

"The Gatekeepers" by Chris Whipple is a fascinating look at the men who pull the strings behind the American presidency. Viewers of the TV Show West Wing are familiar with the character of Leo who shepherds both the president and his staff every day. "The Gatekeepers" tells of the real-life counterparts of the past 50 years or so. It shows how far from being a singular job, every move the President makes is- or should be- a team effort.  Whipple discusses the Chiefs of Staff, their successes (mostly uncredited) and failures (also uncredited) in a lively narrative which relies on a variety of sources, refreshingly from many sides. Each chapter is set up with a lesson to take away, which is especially helpful for those who are second in command of any organization. Fans of history, politics, and just a good story will all find something.

Patriot Number One by Lauren Hilgers

     Patriot Number One by Lauren Hilgers is an intimate and fascinating look at modern immigrant life in the USA. In it she details the flight of a Chinese dissident from his country and how he builds a new life in the USA. In a time when conversation is usually dominated by discussion of immigration from Latin America and the Middle East, Patriot Number One sheds light on those who seek refuge from China and the Far East. The story of the harried foreigner seeking refuge from political oppression in the US is one of the treasured features not just of the country itself but of our cultural memory. Patriot Number One not only shows this tradition is ongoing, but is enlightening for those born in the US in showing the tribulation many of our ancestors endured, and which immigrants still endure today. The book's strength lies in the highly detailed account of the protagonist's day to day life; starting a business, adjusting to life, finding love, etc. It could easily have been written in the first person but Hilgers' narration lends strength to the narrative.

      The book was attractive and well presented. One thing I would have liked was a description of the contents on the back cover, which was covered by reviews, rightfully glowing but not the same as a description. Still, a minor detail in an outstanding book.

The Million Dollar, one Person Business

    Many books promise would-be entrepreneurs ways to get rich quick. "The Million Dollar One Person Business" is the only one I've read that actually delivers. The author details real-life examples, and then highlights specific methods or lessons to take away. These are concrete ways (not pep talks) which you can go out and implement right away- search engine optimization, facebook promotions, etc. It also discusses when it is time to expand, collaborate, or bring in outside help. The path is never "quick" as the book points out, and no method can replace a good idea and hard work, but it will be made easier using the lessons it details.
Physically, the book was attractive and well designed. The type of hardback, colorful without a slip cover, makes it stand out and would draw my attention if on a shelf with other books.