2024-08-17
A deep dive into the nitty-gritty of the U.S. government’s inner workings and their relevance for citizens.
Fleischer pulls back the curtain on concepts that are discussed—often “proudly and loudly”—by voters who may have “confident opinions based on complete misinformation.” The text is divided into chapters that tackle broad subjects, among them spending, taxes, the economy, infrastructure, wealth, debt, and international treaties and trade. The book highlights popular federal programs including Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act, and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. While the detailed descriptions can sometimes make the topics seem daunting, thanks to the inclusion of numerous figures, the explanations are thorough, informative, and divided into concise, manageable chapters. The author explores important matters, such as how interest rates affect individuals and banks and how unemployment and economic growth are measured. Fleischer provides historical context for his chosen topics, offering deep insights into laws and their implications. Sidebars throughout the book give readers helpful extra details without overwhelming them. Occasional photographs add interest, for example of a reindeer-drawn postal sled in Alaska. The text avoids advocating for any particular course of action, instead presenting a balanced view that shows how hot-button issues are often more complex than partisan sound bites suggest.
Clear and stripped of partisan hyperbole; every American can benefit from this book. (image credits, selected bibliography, further information, index)(Nonfiction. 12-18)
"Blending an encyclopedic scope with charismatic prose, Civic Minded is an essential handbook for understanding America's government programs."—Foreword Reviews
09/01/2024
Gr 6 Up—Multiple topics relating to United States' civics are explored in this extensive volume. Primary subjects include taxation, spending, Social Security, Medicare, citizenship, infrastructure, international relations, and similar government functions. Using percentages and other statistics, Fleischer informs readers of how all these laws and programs benefit the American people. For example, he explains tax brackets and likewise points out the value of the U.S. Postal Service, which is required to deliver mail everywhere unlike privatized services. Fleischer points out that the Public Broadcasting System receives 15 percent revenue from taxes, while the rest comes from charitable donations so that prominent issues are covered fairly. Those looking for information on the three branches of government and how they work will be disappointed as none of that is addressed. Fleischer employs a somewhat condescending tone as he refers to those with differing or misinformed points of view as providing "boneheaded" arguments. The information will quickly date as well; for example, 2024 expansions to DACA are not included. Unfortunately, this work provides very dull reading on subject material that is more accessible elsewhere, e.g., the U.S. Treasury website. VERDICT The dense text, tedious prose, and somewhat proselytizing tone will cause browsers to pass while report writers will be better served with government websites. Selectors, consider alternatives.—Margaret Nunes
