No surprises

Library Journal

Greenberg, editorial page editor of the Arkansas Democrat Gazette, is the third Arkansas journalist (following Meredith Oakley, On the Make, LJ 7/94, and John Brummett, Highwire, LJ 9/15/94) to present a thought-provoking, critical account of Clinton's prepresidential years. The coiner of the "slick Willie" nickname brings together topically arranged columns, with helpful introductory notes, that comment on Clinton's failures and successes as governor as well as president, his place in Arkansas politics, and his character. All too frequently, Clinton is unfavorably compared with Orville Faubus, the segregationist former governor. Greenberg is most eloquent describing the "clintonized culture" of the 1990sa society defined by ambition without purpose, with an emphasis on sentimentality, political expediency, and self- absorption. For large collections and Arkansas public libraries.Karl Helicher, Upper Merion Twp. Lib., King of Prussia, Pa

Booknews

A collection of articles and columns written by Pulitzer Prize winner Greenberg about "Slick Willie" (the author's coinage) for the "Arkansas Democrat-Gazette" and the "Pine Bluff Commercial" dating back to 1980. The witty journalist's chronicle is not flattering (no surprise), taking direct critical aim at Clinton's vulnerable spots: character, integrity, and decision making. Actually, it's a good thing the president is so adept at "bob and weave" since the punches, though humorous, definitely are wrapped by brass knuckles. However, Greenberg's real hit comes when he talks about Clinton as a product and reflection of American society in the 1990s. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.