Book Reviews at New Alexandria Press

Three Perspectives on the War in Iraq
reviewed by Jeffrey Caminsky

War is never pretty, and chaos on the battlefield has been a part of military life ever since people first started attacking each other with rocks and spears. In the 21st Century, however, rocks and spears have given way to bombs and gunfire. With American soldiers still at risk in the streets and deserts of Iraq, the first studies of the conflict there offers us many lessons...some of which we seem to have forgotten. But if, as Santayana said, those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it, perhaps we can spare future generations from repeating the mistakes of our era.

Three recent books, Cobra II by Gordon & Trainor, State of Denial by Bob Woodward and Fiasco by Thomas Ricks, study the Iraq War from many different angles. Each, unfortunately, comes to similar conclusions---that things are a mess. Jeffrey Caminsky reviews all three books, and the lessons they offer.




The Utility of Force by Rupert Smith
reviewed by Jeffrey Caminsky

In recent years, we have seen America's military might founder against weaker enemies. Despite an overwhelming advantage in firepower, we seem to stumble, even when confronting what seem to be weak or disorganized opponents. Sir Rupert Smith, a forty-year veteran of the British Army, looks at history and our modern area, and suggests the need for a "new paradigm" in our thinking.





Collapse by Jared Diamond
reviewed by Jeffrey Caminsky

Among the many tantalizing riddles of history are the ruins of ancient civilizations. From the mysteries of Easter Island to the Mayan ruins of the Yucatan, many ancient secrets seem locked away forever. Author Jared Diamond explores some of these mysteries, and has come up with a host of thought-provoking theories to explain many of the success and failures of past societies. And in looking at the past, Diamond reveals reasons for us to worry...as well as reasons to feel hope toward the future.





The Mr & Mrs. Happy Handbook by Steve Doocy
reviewed by Jeffrey Caminsky

For people in love, reality often sets in after the glow fades from the honeymoon. Fox & Friends co-host Steve Doocy shows how facing life with love and a sense of humor can keep the warmth in a relationship, even after the bills start coming due.





Tales from the Detroit Tigers Dugout by Jack Ebling
reviewed by Jeffrey Caminsky

The Detroit Tigers, one of the oldest and most storied baseball teams in history, have fallen upon hard times in recent years, but the 2006 season offered fans reason to hope, as the team roared back to the brink of a world championship. Noted sports author Jack Ebling explores the history of the Tigers, and tells the story of their return to glory.







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