kittykornerlibrarian's review against another edition
4.0
I didn't finish this because it was due back at the library. I enjoyed the clear-cut prose and the perspective it gave me about progressive changes in America. I especially found it valuable that Brown makes it clear that the history of the progressive movement happens in short periods of fast, vital change, followed by decades of defending that change and not moving forward. I guess it gives me hope that progressive change can still happen. So thanks, Senator Brown!! I am proud that you represent me.
oliviak07's review against another edition
4.0
To all fellow and future canaries in the name of progressivism, Sherrod Brown's "Desk 88: Eight Progressive Senators Who Changed America" is the book for you. If you too have never steered from protecting the rights of those around you, even when the hills you must climb seem never ending, then you will find a kindred spirit in Brown and his allies whether you are from the Buckeye State or not.
Although Brown's chronicles of the eight progressives that sat at Desk 88 before him, and his reactions and sections on comparing and contrasting his own experiences to theirs are the bulk of the book, it will hardly cause the reader to grow bored. Each progressive (like Brown himself) shows that although no one is perfect (we all make sensational and regrettable choices in our lives) you should never let them hinder you from moving forward for yourself and those around you. It is the only direction we should strive to grow together.
While I am a rookie to the depths of politics and their history, I did not retreat from the material since it only reinforced my own views of being an ally and advocate for my fellow man/woman kind. I enjoyed and felt my morale bubble over when introduced to new views, and when given a new perspective on topics already dear to my heart. Whether it was savoring the words from parts of Robert F. Kennedy's speech that took place at the University of Capetown (241), Brown's example of Gallaudet University as an act of progressivism (187), or his view of how great victories grow from the collection of small victories (277) the book never felt dull and dry.
I am grateful to Beth, my boyfriend's mother, who gave me this book as a Christmas gift last year. It was truly thoughtful, and beyond that has caused me to further my own thoughtfulness in my present and in my future. I look forward to passing this book along to others, and to reading more by Brown and his wife, Connie Shultz, who is a profound wordsmith and ally too.
Although Brown's chronicles of the eight progressives that sat at Desk 88 before him, and his reactions and sections on comparing and contrasting his own experiences to theirs are the bulk of the book, it will hardly cause the reader to grow bored. Each progressive (like Brown himself) shows that although no one is perfect (we all make sensational and regrettable choices in our lives) you should never let them hinder you from moving forward for yourself and those around you. It is the only direction we should strive to grow together.
While I am a rookie to the depths of politics and their history, I did not retreat from the material since it only reinforced my own views of being an ally and advocate for my fellow man/woman kind. I enjoyed and felt my morale bubble over when introduced to new views, and when given a new perspective on topics already dear to my heart. Whether it was savoring the words from parts of Robert F. Kennedy's speech that took place at the University of Capetown (241), Brown's example of Gallaudet University as an act of progressivism (187), or his view of how great victories grow from the collection of small victories (277) the book never felt dull and dry.
I am grateful to Beth, my boyfriend's mother, who gave me this book as a Christmas gift last year. It was truly thoughtful, and beyond that has caused me to further my own thoughtfulness in my present and in my future. I look forward to passing this book along to others, and to reading more by Brown and his wife, Connie Shultz, who is a profound wordsmith and ally too.
midwest_transplant's review against another edition
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
4.0
cslemread's review against another edition
3.0
Is it the most poignant read? Not really, but I enjoyed learning about a select few figures of history, their strengths and weaknesses.
rainbowbookworm's review against another edition
3.0
The book was interesting, but my rating is affected by the fact that I wish Brown was a better raconteur. One thing is clear, the author not only respects his predecessors at Desk 88, but also his position and his constituents.
hmurphy's review against another edition
5.0
A remarkably insightful book into the political workings of the progressive wing of the Democratic party. Senator Brown's book is a reminder to all Americans how some their most precious benefits; such as social security, child labor laws, medicare, medicaid, food stamps, etc. came into being. It is a book of hope which shows that even though there have been long periods where social progress has been stalled by the greed of angry conservative men, there are those who in the face of the odds are willing to stand tall and make a real difference in the lives of everyday Americans.
ellenrackley's review against another edition
4.0
Took me forever to get through but I really liked this mini Senate history.