How William Buckley shaped the American right, with Sam Tanenhaus

In this monumental biography, Max Boot illuminates the untold story of Ronald Reagan, drawing on over 100 interviews with Reagan's aides, friends, and family members, as well as thousands of newly available documents. Boot portrays Reagan as a man of profound contradictions—a strong ideologue and a supreme pragmatist who signed pro-abortion and gun control bills, cut deals with Democrats, and befriended Mikhail Gorbachev to end the Cold War. The book contextualizes Reagan's life against American history, from his early successes as a lifeguard and sportscaster to his career in Hollywood and his eventual rise to the presidency. Boot also critically examines Reagan's opposition to civil rights, his handling of the AIDS epidemic, and the income inequality that marked his era. This biography is not a hagiography but a thoughtful, reflective, and critically nuanced account of Reagan's life and legacy.

Richard Weaver's "Up From Liberalism" chronicles his intellectual journey from a Marxist perspective to a conservative one. He critiques the limitations and failures of liberal thought, emphasizing the importance of tradition and community. Weaver argues for a return to a more organic and less individualistic understanding of society. The book explores the dangers of abstract ideologies and the need for a more nuanced approach to political and social issues. It remains a significant work in conservative thought, influencing generations of thinkers.

Nixon is a 1995 American biographical drama film directed by Oliver Stone and starring Anthony Hopkins. The film follows the life and presidency of Richard Nixon. It's a gripping and insightful look at one of the most controversial figures in American history.

Published in 1952, 'Witness' is a memoir that recounts Chambers' journey from being a dedicated Marxist-communist in the 1920s to his work as a courier in the Soviet underground during the 1930s. The book also details his defection from communism, his spiritual conversion to Christianity, and his pivotal role in the Alger Hiss trials. It is both a personal history and a philosophical treatise, offering insights into the dangers of communism and the importance of spiritual values in politics. The book was widely acclaimed and is considered one of the most significant American autobiographies of the 20th century.

This biography by Sam Tanenhaus explores the multifaceted life of William F. Buckley Jr., from his founding of National Review to his roles as a syndicated columnist, TV debater, and bestselling novelist. It delves into his alliances with prominent figures like Joseph McCarthy and Ronald Reagan, as well as his secret exploits and later struggles within the conservative movement.

Written in 1951, God and Man at Yale is a critical examination of Yale University's undergraduate education by William F. Buckley Jr., who had just graduated from the institution. The book argues that Yale's faculty were undermining the university's founding ethos of Christian humanism by promoting atheism, collectivism, and Keynesian economics. Buckley criticized specific courses and professors for their hostility to religion and individualism, suggesting that this was a betrayal of the values held by Yale's alumni. The book is considered a seminal work in the American conservative movement and had a significant impact on Buckley's career and public profile.

Published in 1969, 'The Godfather' by Mario Puzo is a crime novel that follows the story of the Corleone family, one of the Five Families of the New York Mafia. The novel spans from the early life of Vito Corleone to the rise of his youngest son, Michael, as the new Don. The story explores themes of loyalty, power, and violence as the family navigates internal conflicts, external threats, and the transition of leadership. Michael, initially reluctant to join the family business, becomes deeply involved after an assassination attempt on his father and eventually succeeds Vito as the head of the family. The novel is known for its realistic portrayal of organized crime and its impact on the characters' personal lives.