A survey of interesting times, well written and informative. Lots of insights and personal references make it a very easy and quick history of the time in which the USA became the dominant power in the world. ( )

A forty-year study of the American national character. At various times thrilling, grotesque, encouraging, depressing. What must be said about it is that it's spectacular - and all true. Easily the best book I've read in 2009. ( )