Real Change: From the World that Fails to the World that Works by Newt Gingrich, Vince Haley (With), Rick Tyler (With)

A reviewer
Sandy Wales, A reviewer, 02/21/2008

Newt is a writing machine. He never fails to make one think, and Real Change is not a disappointment.

Also recommended: 'Shooting Straight, Winning Iraq' Sean Hannity, 'Let Freedom Ring

Real Change? Maybe?
David, A reviewer, 02/11/2008

I'm a big fan of Newt Gingrich. I think he is doing a lot of good on the sidelines as a thinker. With this in mind I clamored for a copy of his new book “Real Change” hoping to find some new ideas on how to turn America around or at least reaffirm my ideas. I am disappointed. “Real Change” offers several ideas about change but no solutions or at least no details about the “solutions”. To Newt's defense he does refer the reader to his American Solutions web sight regularly and this reader has yet to visit the site. Hopefully it is full of solutions (and details). The book is description of much of what ails America and several bland, generic ideas about change. I think this book may only provide additional fodder for the “change” group-think which is in vogue during this Presidential election. What's not said is most people fear change and will do most anything to cling to the status quo. Nor is there any mention of the saying “be careful what you wish for, you might just get it.” What are we wishing for? Change for the sake of change is ill-advised. I have consistently respected Mr. Gingrich for his ideas. I've met more than once. He signed my copy of “The Road to Serfdom” by Hayek (it was the only book I had with me at the time, but a book Newt recommended nonetheless) But I am disappointed with this book and must question some of his thoughts and statements. First Newt does mention the Fair Tax but all but dismisses it as untenable. He seems to prefer the flat tax proffered by Steve Forbes et. al. In my opinion there is no bigger (or better) source for “Real Change” than the Fair Tax. Second, he writes “ FDR, the greatest Democratic president of the twentieth century...”. What? FDR's alphabet soup, all-encompassing government is the largest contributor to the mess we are in. Newt repeatedly refers to less government and more personal responsibility as the answer to America's woes. FDR, are we talking about the same person? FDR was a socialist who we elected FOUR times! The damage he did to this country is unmeasurable and has set the course for both the mess we currently face and if left unchecked the ultimate demise of this once great country. On at least two occasions in his book Newt refers to the Federalist Papers as the savior of this country. However although these papers serve as important source documentation leading up to the Constitution they are not the Constitution nor are they the law of the land. Suggesting “[t]hose in doubt that the elected branches have the power to reform the judicial branch need merely to read the Federalist Papers for quite specific recommendations for how it can happen.” What does the Constitution have to say about that? Finally Newt needs to review his Physics, Thermodynamics, and Chemistry. He has not only jumped onto the Ethanol bandwagon but also has apparently discovered new laws of physical science. “Some have estimated that composite materials combined with a hybrid E-85 engine could produce a vehicle that could run for 500 to 1,000 miles on a gallon of petroleum.” First E-85 refers to a fuel mixture 85% gasoline (petroleum) and 15% ethanol. This mixture contains LESS energy than 100% gasoline. For a vehicle to achieve this type of mileage it would require a vehicle like the Honda Civic to achieve at least 10-20 times the fuel efficiency currently available. Some of this could be achieved through lighter weight but there are no miracle composites available that would enable this type of improvement. And even it this mileage was attainable I doubt the vehicle would be large enough for even one passenger. I will take a look at his Real Solutions web site in hope of finding some answers and better information but my my great expectations for this book have been dashed. However I remain a fan of Newt and recognize the fact America needs thinkers like him.

blue print for change
TOM CHASTAIN, I LOVE BOOKSTORES, 01/03/2008

'real change' is a real breath of fresh air. instead of complaining about issues this very fast page turning book provides the voter with some stead fast awnsers to tough problems plus as an added bonus there is a action solving maunel in there that shows the citizen what they can do to get involved to make a difference and I think this book might make a difference in the 2008 election. great gift idea for a friend family member or soldier serving over seas.

Also recommended: condi by mary beth brown from hope to higher ground by mike huckabee winning the future by newt gingrich rediscovering God in america by newt gingrich target by kathleen willey