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Synopsis
A prolific, popular writer takes on everything from the 1940s to E. L. Doctorow to blogging
Library Journal
In his 20th book, Stern, professor emeritus of English at the University of Chicago, where he has taught for 46 years, presents what he calls an "ordered miscellany" of reflections, observations, and commentary. He delights readers with his erudition, honesty, humility, and wit and demonstrates that even in his late seventies, he is "still on call." In "How I Think I Got To Think the Way I Think," Stern turns his analytical skills on himself, speculating that his ability to simultaneously empathize with the problems of others while maintaining a sense of detachment has contributed to his success as a writer of fiction. In "Posting," the largest section, Stern offers a number of blog entries written for the New Republic from 2006 to 2009. His topics run the gamut from a Mike Wallace interview with Iranian President Ahmadinejad (which is scathing in its criticism of Wallace) to Don Imus (who receives more plaudits than pans). VERDICT Stern clearly succeeds in his desire to "stimulate a high level of mental energy"—put this book on your list of essential reads.—Anthony Pucci, Notre Dame H.S., Elmira, NY