Politics: Book offers a timely message

I have a suggestion for the next Pierce County Reads selection: “It Can’t Happen Here” by American author Sinclair Lewis. Published in 1935, during the times that saw the growth of Nazis and fascists in Europe, it is a cautionary tale.

The novel describes the rise to presidency of a blowhard, self-promoting, power-hungry megalomaniac who promises unrealistic “drastic economic and social reforms while promoting a return to patriotism and traditional values.” His shoot-from-the-hip rhetoric filled with unattainable promises appeal to the disenchanted, undereducated middle and lower classes during a stressful period in U.S. history.

The title reflects the sentiments of that politician’s opponents, who cannot imagine how such a blatantly ridiculous character could be taken seriously, let alone elected.

In the book, he does get elected. Campaign promises are ignored while the newly elected president goes about creating a police state that targets any and all who oppose the new regime, as well as minorities, women and foreigners.

I think this book would provide lively and interesting discussion during our own time of political upheaval.

This story was originally published March 2, 2016 at 11:01 AM with the headline "Politics: Book offers a timely message."