Bonnie Lisle

This anthology includes a pretty wide range of viewpoints and ideas about topics like gender relations, education and race - from Rick Santorum to Thoreau. There certainly is a leftward slant, as the conservative writers included really only create the barest semblance of balance. Rereading America really hits its stride in the last section, where our concept of democracy is discussed in light of the War on Terror. Provocative questions are raised - things that might shock kids out of complacency.… (mere)

Quite simply this book is a collection of essays or excerpts tackling a variety of issues surrounding the "mythology" of America. The offerings are grouped according to a theme: family (specifically the myth of the 1950s nuclear family), education (as a means to "success"), upward mobility, gender, the melting pot, and America as a "Land of Liberty." Every section basically follows the same loose formula-1.) an essay that epitomizes the myth or something old-school that the myth may have originated from 2.)then there will be an essay that almost directly refutes that myth or at least pokes a lot of holes. 3.)The following selections are mostly progressive/liberal leaning, but a couple conservative pieces are offered in each section that I believe only look more foolish in juxtaposition with the other selections..this seems fairly intentional. 4.)A small collection of photographs are also included in each section.

I found this book in a free pile at used textbook store in Southern California, and honestly most people who have gone to college and maybe taken at least one social science class will probably be familiar with most of these topics. I think many people of my generation already know that gender is fluid, racism is still an issue, and the nuclear family is almost an anomaly. However, I still found this book to be a very interesting and sometimes refreshing read. I really liked reading essays dealing with education as a means of socialization first and foremost above learning, and especially an essay detailing a compelling and justified call for black reparations. I also just liked being exposed to new (to me) nonfiction writers. With all of the short selections, its kinda like eating addicting snacks...maybe not super enlightening (or nourishing), but satisfying in the short term.… (mere)