The Last Innocent White Man in America: And Other Writings

"The last Innocent White Man in America: And Other Writings" is a great collection. Personal essays, political commentaries, book reviews, cultural criticism -- they're all here, wonderfully structured, beautifully written, rife with John Leonard's insight and keen sensibility. They show what American culture and politics look like when viewed through the lens of one of our preeminent critics. Although the portraits are not always flattering, they are always astute and honest and erudite. And they are a pleasure to read, as John Leonard is also one of the best prose stylist writing. I recommend to everyone interested in reading the lived history of our most recent past and being entertained and informed by the experience.

Leonard's wit and outlook make this work raw and truly delightful. Readers with agile minds and who like to laugh (even if it's a rueful chuckle) will get a kick out of the rare chance to read this much insight that doesn't devolve into a pure rant.

There's 1 line in here that's an absolute scream: "I've just read the memoirs of Mansur Rafizedah, the former chief of Iran's SAVAK (and covert CIA 'asset'), and he feels unappreciated."

Leonard's only fault is that he is too clever. And that's not a fault.