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Sarah Palin could be deemed the epitome of the American Dream. A mother of five, the wife of a union worker, and a believer in America, Palin uses the story of her life and her journey to a career in politics to inspire readers to dream big, to stand for what is right, and not to allow life's obstacles to get in the way of their goals. More of a personal memoir than a political statement, Sarah's book is inspiring and encouraging. From Wasilla, Alaska, to the campaign trail, Sarah Palin highlights many character-forming experiences from disciplines learned on her high school basketball team to the trials and tribulations that come with marriage and the everyday happenings of a working mother. However, her message is quite clear throughout her book. With a sound understanding of political theory, she assures us that small government is the foundation of good government. She implores the American people to take government back into their own hands, reminding us that the government "can't make you happy, healthy, wealthy, or wise." Through the integration of many personal stories, her virtuous nature becomes clear. Palin's recurring theme as a politician is that she values principles over politics and therefore is "sleeping well." Much of the biography is devoted to revealing the truth about the campaign with Senator John McCain, disputing many fallacies reported in the media, and admitting shortcomings in the McCain campaign. She concedes mistakes with Katie Couric but also explains the conditions and manner in which she was interviewed. Throughout the biography, she provides justification for her actions, clears the name of her family, and encourages readers to seek the truth regardless of popular belief. Going Rogue, a remark made toward Palin in observation of her resolute behavior during the campaign, is a simple reading of the life of an ordinary American, determined to stand for what she knows is right. More than that, this memoir is the outcry from one citizen to an entire country to, in the words of Palin herself, "Stand now. Stand together. Stand for what is right." (HarperCollins, 2009, 413 pp., $28.99) |
She tells her story from the straightforward view of a woman determined to make a difference in her world. Her honest and politically incorrect language is refreshing as she relates to a plethora of audiences through her experiences, deepening her faith along the way.
