Category: Reviews Books and Movies

  • From Reluctant Vice President to World Leader: A Review of David L. Roll’s “Ascent to Power”

    David L. Roll’s biography, Ascent to Power, explores Truman’s transformative presidency from 1944-1948, emphasizing political evolution, international diplomacy, domestic policy, and complex historical narratives.

  • Unraveling the Myth: A Review of Alan Taylor’s “American Republics”

    Alan Taylor’s “American Republics” reexamines early American history, highlighting contradictions, Native American resilience, and the complex realities behind American exceptionalism, making it essential for educators and students.

  • Book Reviews: Berry, Cussler, and WW2 Gold

    Steve Berry’s The Atlas Maneuver innovatively merges WWII treasure hunting with cryptocurrency, creating a compelling espionage thriller, while Clive Cussler’s The Solomon Curse offers a more conventional, less impactful adventure.

  • From Mysticism to Resistance: How Andor Reframes the Star Wars Rebellion

    The post argues for a pedagogical shift to viewing Andor Season 2, Rogue One, and A New Hope as a trilogy, emphasizing material resistance and moral complexities of rebellion against authoritarianism.

  • Star Trek, May Day, Haymarket, and History

    The “Past Tense” episodes of Star Trek highlight parallels between labor struggles of the late 19th century and contemporary social issues, emphasizing ongoing fights for workers’ rights and dignity.

  • Excalibur (1981): The Myth, the Dark Fantasy, and the Classroom

    John Boorman’s Excalibur is a towering cinematic achievement that reimagines the Arthurian legend with a gritty, dreamlike quality. Released in 1981, the film arrived during a pivotal cultural moment when geek culture, mythological storytelling, and dark fantasy were gaining global traction. Its evocative imagery, Shakespearean dialogue, and unapologetically raw depiction of chivalry, betrayal, and redemption…