Form
This book is a quick read, it’s only 126 short pages and it’s form factor makes it great as both coffee table literature or something to read in the bathroom. The book is comprised of twenty short lessons, all focusing on a specific aspect of society that we should participate in or watch out for to prevent Tyranny in America. The language is not hard to understand. It is written so anyone can pick it up and read it. Overall I need to complement this book’s style. It does a great job of walking the line between coffee table literature and serious political commentary while making the book itself accessible to anyone who wants to read it. Coupled with the book’s $6.39 price on Amazon for the paperback, there isn’t a reason people shouldn’t get this book.
Content
This is where Timothy Snyder’s opinions and mine differ. I think that everyone should read this book as a way to start conversations with others about the book’s content. With each chapter being comparatively few pages, even if Snyder Wanted to, he couldn’t fully articulate his claims in that space. This is why Snyder has chosen to give brief little overviews in each lesson. Evey lesson has some supporting evidence, but not much. The book is great as a stepping stone into a conversation. After quickly reading a lesson people should have an idea of where to start a conversation with someone about that lesson. They will not have a list of facts for which to use in that conversation.
Facts and Opinions
This book is highly opinionated. The first two chapters start out simple enough. They tell people to reflect on their actions as to not obey in advance and defend institutions. By the end of the third chapter, it would be possible to interpret some of Snyders words as an attack on the Republican party. This theme continues to various degrees throughout the book. Snyder becomes very critical and makes it apparent that he loves to “throw shade” at the Republicans, but especially Trump.
Because this book does not have space to fully support the claims it makes, coupled with the fact that nothing is cited in this book. Makes it rather frustrating to read regardless of if you like or dislike the state of the white house.
It’s still worth it
This book is not perfect, and not very good at some things. However, this book has significant value because it is good at starting a conversation. People who read this book regardless of if they agree or not will be in a better place to comment and even make counter-arguments. That is why I think the book is indispensable.
Do yourself a favor and leave this book on your coffee table. Trust me. Your afternoon hangouts with your friends might become the slightest bit more political. Many people might not want that, but I do. That is why you will find On Tyranny present on my coffee table.
Interesting analysis of this book. I don’t think I’ve ever read a review where someone highly recommends a book to read despite having issues with the book’s content! Perhaps the controversial nature and opinionation of the book are what spark political discussion. I also like how you pointed out that the book will not just give you the facts; you have to do some research yourself. I think it’s important for everyone to keep an open mind and make sure that they are informed on topics when going into discussions about these topics so we can have meaningful conversation.
I second DJ’s comment! I have never read a book review where the person has issues with the book yet still recommends it to the viewers. As much as I like reading things that “throw shade,” especially politically, that can sometimes become tiresome without citation. It sounds like an interesting book for sure, and I will check it out. Nice post.
I really enjoyed this review, because you didn’t discuss the book in a usual manner. You gave your honest opinions about it; you didn’t rave and go on and on about how “amazing” it is, but rather you gave real opinions and even your disagreements with the book. I definitely want to check this book out now that I know about it.