Interesting recounting of the '64 campaign

I really liked the book but I won't re-listen to it. This is mainly because, even though the early 60's is a fascinating time in American history and the book documents that well, Goldwater and his cronies are not in my opinion, and that is what the early part of the book is about. They come off as dislikeable people with unconvincing and abrasive arguments. That being said, once the book gets to the 64 campaign, everything gets more interesting. By the end, you understand why Goldwater lost so badly. All things considered, I enjoyed learning about Goldwater and his campaign. The only thing I wanted to know more about was how Goldwater felt after the campaign. The book seems to end too quick. Perhaps Pearlstein is saving that for the sequel, Nixonland.

The narrator was good though he did do some accents and imitations which weren't over the top and distracting, but it is not my preference when I'm listening to someone read a book or an article. I like a crisp, clean reading with good flow and I do not like the reader to do voices. This narrator wasn't too bad but if he had went any further with his imitations, it might have been too much for me. For those interested in american political history, this book is probably the standard when it comes to this particular era and campaign. Recommended.

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A good history on the conservatism of the early 60

It is a good introduction to the tumultuous 60s, which culminated in the rehabilitation of Nixon and the return of conservatism toward the end of the decade. A must read before delving into Nixonism and Reaganism.

Steve

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