Read It Forward discussion

Jonathan Kozol's new book Fire in the Ashes: Twenty-Five Years Among the Poorest Children in America is sure to prick the conscience of his readers and drive heated debate about education in the U.S.

While Kozol's work always has a timeless appeal, this newest book is perfectly timed for election season, when the candidates are discussing their plans for the children of our country.

Do you read political books during election season? What are some of your favorites?

I hate to political books, election season or no. They're what I call "preaching to the choir" books, i.e., they're books read only by people who already agree.

Beth wrote: "I hate to political books, election season or no. They're what I call "preaching to the choir" books, i.e., they're books read only by people who already agree."

I am the personification of disagreement here. I often tell the story of a friend of mine who has generally has differing political views from mine. We were in a Goodwill looking at books one day when, as a joke, she picked up a book written by someone who I don't agree with. I laughed as I told her, "I've already read it."

That wasn't the only book I've read that opposes my sensibilities. In fact, I've read a book by "my side" and a similar book by "theirs" and preferred "theirs."

How else will I/we learn what the other side is about without reading about it? We certainly only get clips on the news, not the full explanation.

Linda wrote: "Beth wrote: "I hate to political books, election season or no. They're what I call "preaching to the choir" books, i.e., they're books read only by people who already agree."

I am the personificat..."

You're right, of course. But my problem with political books isn't just with those I disagree with. I find political books I've read to be boring.

Beth wrote: "Linda wrote: "Beth wrote: "I hate to political books, election season or no. They're what I call "preaching to the choir" books, i.e., they're books read only by people who already agree."

I am th..."

That sounds wrong, like I don't want to be informed. I find them boring because I am informoed already.