In this book, Thomas Frank explores the transformation of Kansas from a state with a radical past to a stronghold of conservative politics. He argues that the culture wars have allowed the Republican Party to capture the populist language of social class, presenting themselves as the embodiment of working-class anti-elitism. Frank analyzes how conservatism, once associated with class privilege, became the creed of many ordinary Americans, particularly in Kansas, where workers and farmers support policies that often harm their own economic interests. The book critiques the role of the Democratic Party in neglecting its traditional support base, such as organized labor, and how this neglect has contributed to the rise of conservative politics[1][2][4].
In this landmark biography, Andrew Roberts provides a deeply personal and historically rich portrait of Winston Churchill. With exclusive access to new material such as transcripts of War Cabinet meetings, diaries, letters, and unpublished memoirs from Churchill's contemporaries, Roberts reveals the hidden forces behind Churchill's legendary drive. The book explores Churchill's life in detail, from his early years to his leadership during World War II, highlighting his courage, tenacity, leadership, and moral conviction. It also discusses his complex relationships, including his interactions with King George VI and Franklin Roosevelt, and evaluates his legacy in the context of modern leadership challenges.
In 'Differ We Must', Steve Inskeep delves into Abraham Lincoln's life through sixteen significant encounters, highlighting his ability to navigate political divisions while maintaining a strong moral compass. The book provides insights into Lincoln's strategies for leading a social revolution and unifying a nation, offering valuable lessons for contemporary political challenges.
The History of the Russian Revolution is a three-volume book that provides a comprehensive account of the February and October revolutions in Russia in 1917. Written by Leon Trotsky during his exile in Turkey, the book is divided into three volumes: The Overthrow of Tzarism, The Attempted Counter-Revolution, and The Triumph of the Soviets. It explains the historical reasons behind the overthrow of tsarism, the role of the masses in revolutions, and the political dynamics leading to the Bolsheviks' rise to power. The book also serves as a critique of Stalin's attempts to rewrite history and is considered an important work due to its unique perspective from a participant and theorist of the revolution[2][4][5].
Роман «Хаджи-Мурат» — последнее произведение Льва Толстого, написанное между 1896 и 1904 годами и опубликованное посмертно в 1912 году. История рассказывает о Хаджи-Мурате, знаменитом чеченском повстанческом лидере, который заключает неустойчивый союз с русскими, чтобы отомстить и спасти свою семью, захваченную имамом Шамилем. Роман исследует темы сопротивления и конфликта между христианской Россией и мусульманским Кавказом.
Written by Fyodor Dostoyevsky between 1867 and 1869, 'The Idiot' follows the story of Prince Lev Nikolayevich Myshkin, a young man with a pure and innocent heart, often mistaken for an 'idiot' due to his simplicity and goodness. The novel examines how this 'positively beautiful man' navigates a world filled with corruption, moral decay, and complex human relationships. Myshkin's interactions with characters like Nastasya Filippovna and Aglaia Epanchina highlight themes of love, suffering, sacrifice, and the clash between idealistic values and the harsh realities of society. The novel ultimately leads to Myshkin's mental breakdown and his inability to cope with the world around him[2][3][5].
President Donald Trump has made the “big, beautiful bill” a hallmark piece of legislation for his administration. However, the bill’s most vocal opponent has been one of Trump’s closest allies. Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and former head of DOGE, has called out the bill for increasing the debt ceiling. Musk has been pushing for legislators to kill the bill. In a press conference with German chancellor Friedrich Merz, Trump responded to a question about Musk and shared his disappointment in the billionaire. It’s created a war of words between the president and the billionaire. Could the public spat signal the downfall of Trump’s spending plan?
A humanitarian aid organization in Gaza backed by the US and Israel is under scrutiny. The newly founded Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has been criticized by more established aid groups for a lack of transparency and infrastructure following attacks on Palestinians as they attempted to receive food and resources delivered by GHF. Israel’s government says the group is necessary because of a lack of trust in groups like the United Nations and Amnesty International. But is their ability to handle the massive undertaking of providing aid to Gaza compromised?
How does support for overarching policies shift when those policies hit closer to home? KCRW discusses the dilemma facing a small Missouri town.
Left, Right & Center 
