I read a lot. Occasionally I do a short book review here and recommend (or pan) a certain book. Seldom do I present a book as being something everyone should read. And never have I gone so far as to issue a challenge to the readers of Granny's House to choose and read a particular book.

That just changed.

My careful attention to the events in this country in the past few months (and the educated predictions of those who pay attention for a living) have convinced me that it's time to use whatever influence I have to encourage the reading of a book that half a century ago predicted today's political and economic climate and demonstrated what could happen when government decides to be the savior of mankind.

Okay, that sentence was about as long as the book I'm about to recommend.

Yes, it's long. Yes, it's brutal to get through. Yes, it has an element or two that sensitive readers may consider offensive. Yes, it was written by an admitted atheist and a woman not known for purity, morality, or delicacy. But I believe the message and the picture this book portrays is too important for you to ignore if you care about the world your children and grandchildren will inherit and inhabit. If you don't, then you'll accept your portion of the bailouts and shut your eyes to the real, easy to ignore but inevitable consequences. But assuming you are willing to look your grandchildren and generations yet to be born straight in the eyes and admit what you're handing them, you need to read this book. Or listen to it on your iPod. However you do it, read it this year. Become part of the resistance. Care enough about those who come behind you to become the solution.

Some of you lead such busy lives that it will take you six months to get through this book. I predict, though, that the quality of the plot will carry many of you to the end...the economic prescience in the book is not its only claim to fame. It's a darn good story! Other than one or two long soliloquies, the whole thing had me riveted for several weeks and I intend to go back and read it again.

I'll do it for my grandkids.

(Start with this opinion piece from the Wall Street Journal. Then order or download the book and email and tell me you're accepting my challenge. Or if you're brave, declare yourself in the comments. I dare you.)

'Atlas Shrugged': From Fiction to Fact in 52 Years


Atlas Shrugged

Atlas Shrugged, audio

Labels: Books, Political Observation, Social Observation