Who Let the Dogs In?: Incredible Political Animals I Have Known

The articles collected in this volume are typical Molly Ivins: smart, funny, insightful. What is particularly admirable about Ivins is her ability to see the human side of those whose politics she opposes. She pulls no punches in her criticism of Shrub & Co., nor of the corruption in Texan politics, but there is always a sense of recognizing the humanity and even good will in the parties...more

The articles collected in this volume are typical Molly Ivins: smart, funny, insightful. What is particularly admirable about Ivins is her ability to see the human side of those whose politics she opposes. She pulls no punches in her criticism of Shrub & Co., nor of the corruption in Texan politics, but there is always a sense of recognizing the humanity and even good will in the parties concerned despite the flaws of their policies and politics. These were all originally newspaper pieces, written to a deadline, and Ivins does occasionally repeat herself. She has been criticized in some circles for having borrowed "good lines" from other sources without credit. Although not exactly commendable, this is something that happens in journalism when an author has to turn out regular pieces. Despite these minor flaws, the book as a whole is entertaining and as balanced as anything you'll find in the current affairs racks of your book store. Those on the left of American politics should read this as a source for cogent arguments and a reminder that their opponents, for all their flaws, are not fundamentally evil. Those on the right should read it and try to answer her arguments while offering the other side as much respect and humanity as Ivins offered them. This book gives a little hope that we can raise the level of political debate in America. Ms. Ivins’ all-too-early death is a sad loss, not only for her friends and family, but for American political discourse on both sides of the aisle.   hide