The book you speak of is consuming me. I had no idea of the extent to which Robert Reich is and has been such a intergral part of our political life. I come away with the feeling that I have a family member who has the heart of this country in his back pocket. Bob, your life's accomplishments make me proud to know you are out there fighting for everything this country stands for. Thank you Sir, you are a source of hope so many of us turn to for guidance in these troubled times.
Reading and learning from this book was a capstone project in both how this country should be and how it went wrong. My understanding of recent American history was strengthened, and my appreciation for prof Reich has only grown.
Met you in the 80's, sailing with Elliott Milstein - you were amazing then and have only proven since then that you were just getting started! The problem for Democrats right now is finding the right tone. Authentic or Performative? Trump's authentic IS performative and therefore difficult to counter. 2026 will our moment to strike back, and with voices like yours, it will be loud and clear.
The DNC and Democrat legislators are completely out of touch with the desires and needs of the populace. Too much corporate money sponsors them. They share the blame for the state we are in. BUT, they can and SHOULD change…before it is too late. I’m an old lady and can 100% understand why young people feel disenfranchised.
That is a problem shared by all political parties. Until we control the financial support that funds politics, we will always see principles compromised for the money.
I am reading the book, and I feel alternately proud of Prof. Reich -- his contributions to an era of great progress and his brilliance in assessing the trends in this country -- and feeling so sad that this is all being broken and dismantled now by the current regime. These are the same feelings I had when reading Doris Kearns Goodwin's book, An Unfinished Love Story, which highlighted the brilliance and the contributions of Richard Goodwin, and of Doris herself. I can hardly imagine how Professors Reich and Kearns Goodwin must themselves feel, and I commend Prof. Reich for soldiering on to get his thoughts out to us. Please read his book - you will not regret it.
You should read this book because Robert Reich is brilliant, relatable and real. But mostly, read it because he passionately cares about you, me and this nation.
I have purchased your book but have not begun to read it. I am a reading addict so rest assured that i will be reading it soon. But in case you are wondering why I decided to purchase and read your book? It is because I am appreciating your efforts in fighting against this terrible fascist movement. I expect it to be well worth my reading time. I am looking forward to it. Thank you for all you do and for being a huge voice of reason when so many in our country don’t seem to use reason and critical thinking skills. Many of my friends think life will go on regardless of what is happening. They are closing their minds to the destruction.
I share info all the time. How else would I know they tell me they “ don’t follow politics”, “ it really does not affect me”,etc. Imagine your medical providers telling you they “ try to not pay attention”! I am 80 snd do not think new friends (or family) is in the cards.
You are so right Vicki with your comparison between politicians and medical providers. If your General Practitioner did not keep up with developments in their field, you would be in danger. Your friends are not keeping up with developments in the world of politics and they are now in danger. But then, there is also the saying that goes "there are none so deaf as those who will not hear". As for new friends for seniors, it is actually possible. Unless you are homebound, there are always organisations that need volunteers. Once you offer your services and prove to be a boon, you will find friends alright. And they may be younger which, as a senior volunteer, I find very inspiring.
Thank you Linda for expressing exactly how I feel. I'm a few chapters in and not just enjoying this book (but learning a great deal about our history).
Vicki, as seniors, we are invisible to those who see us as "other". We are boring, and not what they want to end up like. So we must make the effort to keep up with the times. But more so, join in. It may not be your current friends who will see you for who you really are, but those whom you chip in and help. As I said a couple of comments above, find an organisation that you are passionate about, offer to help, turn up reliably and show them you are a fighter too. Never too old for that while we have our health. Everything hurts more, it no longer pays to look too closely in the mirror, but there is still fire, hope and wisdom in people who have lived long enough to see exactly where the world is going.
Truly, Frank. Prof. Reich, like my Professor of Ancient History asked me after he graded my paper that saved my class, "why did you wait so long?" (to acknowledge your true worth?) Well done! I look forward to absorbing your book during chilly evenings to come.
I hope you earn a fortune on your book because you deserve it, but especially because you're going to use some of that capital to invest in social justice. My personal cause is iguanas --46 species, most of them critically endangered-- and the biodiverse ecosystems that cannot survive without them. More than being crucial to global environmental health, animals are essential for our wellbeing, though a lot of us are still figuring that out. "Having a dog or other pet makes you a better human...it magnifies your empathy." --Tim Walz. Imagine? We almost had him for our VP. The iguanas I've lived with for 50+ years keep me connected with my better self. For some of us, it's dogs and cats, some horses, still others, elephants, whales...tortoises! (Many recent articles have been published about tortoise and reptilian intelligence and emotions!) And if my book is lucky enough to earn a penny, it will go to the International Iguana Foundation. As a member of the IUCN SSC Iguana Specialist Group I have traveled to Guatemala, Honduras, Belize, Jamaica and throughout the Caribbean for ISG conferences where young biologists from around the world, working on a shoestring, present their Species Action Plans, their research, and their passion for saving wildlife. So it's not just iguanas, it's the young people, our next generation of conservation biologists that the Iguana Foundation supports. Thank you for your book, Robert.
Professor Reich: if you know me, even a little bit (i know, how could you know ME specifically? you cannot!) you will know that much of my life is spent within the covers of a book. so i can assure you that i am doing everything i can to get a copy of your book because when i get it, i WILL read it and i WILL REVIEW IT IN THE PAGES OF FORBES.
and hey, as i often tell myself, my writing are my babies, separate from me, yet reflective of what and who i once was, but no longer, and yet, i still take pride in people who like my writing like i would if they liked my babies. (for the record, i am child free, unless writing is children.)
Writing can definitely be your children. I too am child free and my cats throughout my life have been my children. (My passion though has always been dance as well as reading).
I just bought it on audio. It's the only way I can read books lately! I listen while cooking, doing yard work, walking, etc. I even put on the timer for 15 minutes so I can "read" while I fall asleep. It helps get my mind off my work. If you never have time to read, this is a great way to keep absorbing new information. It's how you can read a good book every week or two.
I am reading it now and am learning so much. Today, as I turn 71 I realize how much we need to hear your story and really understand how all the pieces fit together. I have been realizing a lot over the past decade how much I need to pay closer attention to our democracy, especially how so many earlier decisions and happenings seemed less harmless then. Now it all is adding up. Anyway, thank you for writing your book and all your Substacks, they are making a difference.
As I read, I too had the sense of remembering the “events” of our recent past history but not understanding in the moment the broader effects they were having. I wonder is that typical for average people living busy lives? Do we need historical perspective to truly understand? More importantly, is this what is happening to younger Americans today and how do we help them see the broader effects of current events? Regardless, Coming Up Short is such an important book; an interesting, compelling history told through the eyes and wisdom of an incredibly kind man.
I think it is a shared experience of humans which is why “hindsight is 20/20”.
My grandmother had a plaque in her kitchen that said , Ve get too soon old, and too late schmart. (she had Dutch ancestors) It took me being old to really understand it.
There are some advantages to being young, and thinking you are invincible. Each decade has its advantages and drawbacks, We are wise when we listen and value the contributions of every age,
Lila, I've heard your 'grandmother's plaque poem' all my life and frequently referenced it in various conversations and saying it with the Dutch accent. And it is SO TRUE. My current saying (original to me ? ?) is: 'If foresight in my/our youth was as strong as my/our hindsight in my/our dotage, we'd all live our lives differently (?) [right ?]
Mike, we may be on a downward slide, but it is not a fall. I believe in the American dream of a multiracial pluralistic democracy and I predict that once we oust trump/MAGA/Ayan Rand narcism, we will come back even better than we were before trump. Don’t count us out yet,
Not one of the B&N book stores within 25 miles of me in FL had it in stock but my local B&N ordered it for me. P.S. the nice lady at the independent bookshop in Palm Beach had one copy but I try not to drive over there. She said she was ordering more!
Thank you for writing the book. I wish everyone would read it. I devoured it. Unfortunately, many of Trump’s pawns who should read the book, will be ingesting the propaganda pablum from Fox News and its ilk instead. But we can hope that books like yours help to open enough eyes that we can collectively turn the tide on this scourge that is sweeping our country.
The CWC-violating root cause of your country's current fascist-madness can be found in these books:
“In the biggest picture, you should read this book if you want to gain Dr. Mirzayanov's unique perspective on the extent to which Soviet, and later the RF, leadership were and are politically and operationally dedicated to fighting against democracies and the very notion of democratic processes and institutions through any and all available means.”
I was really impressed to read how an interviewer asked you a single question that brought you out of a kind of shell you had been experiencing. I will definitely get the book now, and, after reading it, donate it to our local library.
I think I have agonized over our country since reading The Autobiography of Malcolm X when it first came out in the 60s. It's like we've slowly and steadily regressed into another Dark Ages, and there's no guarantee on a new enlightenment.
Since writing the above, just by chance, I tuned into an interview with Heather Cox Richardson on Pod Save America. She mentioned that Abraham Lincoln was practically unknown to the American public as late as 1857, and then started to become known through his writings supporting abolition.
What she said is that there are writers out there right now -- most still unknown -- ready to fill in the currently gaping hole of where we go next. There was no future for an America that enslaved others. There is no future for an America under the moral depravity of MAGA.
You paint a lovely ray of hope Thomas. Look at how we all still revere the writings of Abraham Lincoln, and how we all still gaze in wonder at the paintings of poor Van Gogh who died in poverty, mentally ill and not knowing his later fame.
Reading it now! You have become one of my favorite people and your voice literally helps regulate my nervous system and calms me down so I can take action to fight back. Thank you 🙏
Me too! Helps me with regulating my over anxious nervous system. Helps me better understand the world around me. It's an excellent book thus far. Not finished. I check my email everyday for what Mr. Reich has to say. It's my lifeline so to speak. Hugs, D~
I read your daily posts, know about your book, and love you dearly. I’ve committed to read your book because you asked. I knew I wanted to and now will joyfully find the time.
The book you speak of is consuming me. I had no idea of the extent to which Robert Reich is and has been such a intergral part of our political life. I come away with the feeling that I have a family member who has the heart of this country in his back pocket. Bob, your life's accomplishments make me proud to know you are out there fighting for everything this country stands for. Thank you Sir, you are a source of hope so many of us turn to for guidance in these troubled times.
Reading and learning from this book was a capstone project in both how this country should be and how it went wrong. My understanding of recent American history was strengthened, and my appreciation for prof Reich has only grown.
I--Why is all the wisdom on the Democratic side of the room.
In part because all the kindness is on one side of the room
Met you in the 80's, sailing with Elliott Milstein - you were amazing then and have only proven since then that you were just getting started! The problem for Democrats right now is finding the right tone. Authentic or Performative? Trump's authentic IS performative and therefore difficult to counter. 2026 will our moment to strike back, and with voices like yours, it will be loud and clear.
The DNC and Democrat legislators are completely out of touch with the desires and needs of the populace. Too much corporate money sponsors them. They share the blame for the state we are in. BUT, they can and SHOULD change…before it is too late. I’m an old lady and can 100% understand why young people feel disenfranchised.
That is a problem shared by all political parties. Until we control the financial support that funds politics, we will always see principles compromised for the money.
I am reading the book, and I feel alternately proud of Prof. Reich -- his contributions to an era of great progress and his brilliance in assessing the trends in this country -- and feeling so sad that this is all being broken and dismantled now by the current regime. These are the same feelings I had when reading Doris Kearns Goodwin's book, An Unfinished Love Story, which highlighted the brilliance and the contributions of Richard Goodwin, and of Doris herself. I can hardly imagine how Professors Reich and Kearns Goodwin must themselves feel, and I commend Prof. Reich for soldiering on to get his thoughts out to us. Please read his book - you will not regret it.
You should read this book because Robert Reich is brilliant, relatable and real. But mostly, read it because he passionately cares about you, me and this nation.
I have purchased your book but have not begun to read it. I am a reading addict so rest assured that i will be reading it soon. But in case you are wondering why I decided to purchase and read your book? It is because I am appreciating your efforts in fighting against this terrible fascist movement. I expect it to be well worth my reading time. I am looking forward to it. Thank you for all you do and for being a huge voice of reason when so many in our country don’t seem to use reason and critical thinking skills. Many of my friends think life will go on regardless of what is happening. They are closing their minds to the destruction.
My friends choose willful ignorance
Need some new friends, but maybe you can encourage the current crop. Money out of politics is a good start.
I share info all the time. How else would I know they tell me they “ don’t follow politics”, “ it really does not affect me”,etc. Imagine your medical providers telling you they “ try to not pay attention”! I am 80 snd do not think new friends (or family) is in the cards.
You are so right Vicki with your comparison between politicians and medical providers. If your General Practitioner did not keep up with developments in their field, you would be in danger. Your friends are not keeping up with developments in the world of politics and they are now in danger. But then, there is also the saying that goes "there are none so deaf as those who will not hear". As for new friends for seniors, it is actually possible. Unless you are homebound, there are always organisations that need volunteers. Once you offer your services and prove to be a boon, you will find friends alright. And they may be younger which, as a senior volunteer, I find very inspiring.
Sadly, I agree with you.
If “ college educated” individuals choose to stay uninformed who makes decisions??
the "well born" will make the decisions.
The billionaire technocrats
Thank you Linda for expressing exactly how I feel. I'm a few chapters in and not just enjoying this book (but learning a great deal about our history).
Of course life will go on, even with radiation, pollution, pandemics, natural disasters, minimal wages. Don't they care about their grandchildren?
Not all my friends and family are old like me. As a matter of fact most are younger. That makes it all the more depressing that they do not engage.
Vicki, as seniors, we are invisible to those who see us as "other". We are boring, and not what they want to end up like. So we must make the effort to keep up with the times. But more so, join in. It may not be your current friends who will see you for who you really are, but those whom you chip in and help. As I said a couple of comments above, find an organisation that you are passionate about, offer to help, turn up reliably and show them you are a fighter too. Never too old for that while we have our health. Everything hurts more, it no longer pays to look too closely in the mirror, but there is still fire, hope and wisdom in people who have lived long enough to see exactly where the world is going.
You will love it
Suppose she doesn’t?
not possible
I will rest assured. Have no fears.
I bought two of them Robert, gave one as a present and read the other one. Very interesting and very well done. Thank you.
Nothing shameless wanting to share something worthwhile. I don’t see you doing it purely for a buck .
Truly, Frank. Prof. Reich, like my Professor of Ancient History asked me after he graded my paper that saved my class, "why did you wait so long?" (to acknowledge your true worth?) Well done! I look forward to absorbing your book during chilly evenings to come.
I hope you earn a fortune on your book because you deserve it, but especially because you're going to use some of that capital to invest in social justice. My personal cause is iguanas --46 species, most of them critically endangered-- and the biodiverse ecosystems that cannot survive without them. More than being crucial to global environmental health, animals are essential for our wellbeing, though a lot of us are still figuring that out. "Having a dog or other pet makes you a better human...it magnifies your empathy." --Tim Walz. Imagine? We almost had him for our VP. The iguanas I've lived with for 50+ years keep me connected with my better self. For some of us, it's dogs and cats, some horses, still others, elephants, whales...tortoises! (Many recent articles have been published about tortoise and reptilian intelligence and emotions!) And if my book is lucky enough to earn a penny, it will go to the International Iguana Foundation. As a member of the IUCN SSC Iguana Specialist Group I have traveled to Guatemala, Honduras, Belize, Jamaica and throughout the Caribbean for ISG conferences where young biologists from around the world, working on a shoestring, present their Species Action Plans, their research, and their passion for saving wildlife. So it's not just iguanas, it's the young people, our next generation of conservation biologists that the Iguana Foundation supports. Thank you for your book, Robert.
Good luck to you (and your iguanas)!
Thank you, Victor, very much. Speaking up for iguanas in a time of overwhelming human suffering isn't easy.
Really?
Yep. Really. "we are here to awaken from our illusion of separateness" --Thich Nhat Hanh
Professor Reich: if you know me, even a little bit (i know, how could you know ME specifically? you cannot!) you will know that much of my life is spent within the covers of a book. so i can assure you that i am doing everything i can to get a copy of your book because when i get it, i WILL read it and i WILL REVIEW IT IN THE PAGES OF FORBES.
and hey, as i often tell myself, my writing are my babies, separate from me, yet reflective of what and who i once was, but no longer, and yet, i still take pride in people who like my writing like i would if they liked my babies. (for the record, i am child free, unless writing is children.)
You sound like you're in touch with your inner child...something we should never lose.
i try.
Writing can definitely be your children. I too am child free and my cats throughout my life have been my children. (My passion though has always been dance as well as reading).
I bought your book and I'm looking forward to reading with a cup of tea and breathing space. I've heard you talk about your
Iife and I love your outlook on the world. Be loud and proud about your many achievements and thank you for all you have shared to enlighten me.
I look forward to reading it soon, I’ve said it before, but thank you for all that you do!
I just bought it on audio. It's the only way I can read books lately! I listen while cooking, doing yard work, walking, etc. I even put on the timer for 15 minutes so I can "read" while I fall asleep. It helps get my mind off my work. If you never have time to read, this is a great way to keep absorbing new information. It's how you can read a good book every week or two.
I am considering buying the audio version because hearing the story gives a better sense of the author's lived experiences.
Does he read it? That is my favorite — books read by author.
Yes, he does. I have his audio book. I love hearing his passion behind his words. Hugs, D~
Yes, that's my favourite way to get through books these days as well.
Great advice Donna.
Thanks! Just downloaded it. 😁
I am reading it now and am learning so much. Today, as I turn 71 I realize how much we need to hear your story and really understand how all the pieces fit together. I have been realizing a lot over the past decade how much I need to pay closer attention to our democracy, especially how so many earlier decisions and happenings seemed less harmless then. Now it all is adding up. Anyway, thank you for writing your book and all your Substacks, they are making a difference.
As I read, I too had the sense of remembering the “events” of our recent past history but not understanding in the moment the broader effects they were having. I wonder is that typical for average people living busy lives? Do we need historical perspective to truly understand? More importantly, is this what is happening to younger Americans today and how do we help them see the broader effects of current events? Regardless, Coming Up Short is such an important book; an interesting, compelling history told through the eyes and wisdom of an incredibly kind man.
I think it is a shared experience of humans which is why “hindsight is 20/20”.
My grandmother had a plaque in her kitchen that said , Ve get too soon old, and too late schmart. (she had Dutch ancestors) It took me being old to really understand it.
There are some advantages to being young, and thinking you are invincible. Each decade has its advantages and drawbacks, We are wise when we listen and value the contributions of every age,
Lila, I've heard your 'grandmother's plaque poem' all my life and frequently referenced it in various conversations and saying it with the Dutch accent. And it is SO TRUE. My current saying (original to me ? ?) is: 'If foresight in my/our youth was as strong as my/our hindsight in my/our dotage, we'd all live our lives differently (?) [right ?]
So right Dale, I wish my older self had been able to wag a finger at my younger self when crucial decisions were being made!
Happy Birthday! 🥳🎂🎁
Enjoy your birthday week!
I’ll be 73 in November. 🙋🏻♀️
Happy Birthday 🎂💐
YEP bought in on Kindle here in the UK, fascinated to understand the fall of the American Empire
Aren't we all...
Mike, we may be on a downward slide, but it is not a fall. I believe in the American dream of a multiracial pluralistic democracy and I predict that once we oust trump/MAGA/Ayan Rand narcism, we will come back even better than we were before trump. Don’t count us out yet,
If you can understand it, please explain it to me.
People should read it before trump's bogeymen ban it -- as they may well do if their clampdown on free access to books continues to develop.
Not one of the B&N book stores within 25 miles of me in FL had it in stock but my local B&N ordered it for me. P.S. the nice lady at the independent bookshop in Palm Beach had one copy but I try not to drive over there. She said she was ordering more!
You can also download the audio version on Chirp.
Scary but quite likely true John!
Thank you for writing the book. I wish everyone would read it. I devoured it. Unfortunately, many of Trump’s pawns who should read the book, will be ingesting the propaganda pablum from Fox News and its ilk instead. But we can hope that books like yours help to open enough eyes that we can collectively turn the tide on this scourge that is sweeping our country.
The CWC-violating root cause of your country's current fascist-madness can be found in these books:
“In the biggest picture, you should read this book if you want to gain Dr. Mirzayanov's unique perspective on the extent to which Soviet, and later the RF, leadership were and are politically and operationally dedicated to fighting against democracies and the very notion of democratic processes and institutions through any and all available means.”
https://www.amazon.co.uk/NOVIChOK-Gruppy-nerwno-paraliticheskih-agentow-opisanie/dp/6205193078
https://www.amazon.com/State-Secrets-Insiders-Chronicle-Chemical/dp/1432725661
https://rronors.substack.com/p/4th-generation-cwc-violations
I was really impressed to read how an interviewer asked you a single question that brought you out of a kind of shell you had been experiencing. I will definitely get the book now, and, after reading it, donate it to our local library.
I think I have agonized over our country since reading The Autobiography of Malcolm X when it first came out in the 60s. It's like we've slowly and steadily regressed into another Dark Ages, and there's no guarantee on a new enlightenment.
Since writing the above, just by chance, I tuned into an interview with Heather Cox Richardson on Pod Save America. She mentioned that Abraham Lincoln was practically unknown to the American public as late as 1857, and then started to become known through his writings supporting abolition.
What she said is that there are writers out there right now -- most still unknown -- ready to fill in the currently gaping hole of where we go next. There was no future for an America that enslaved others. There is no future for an America under the moral depravity of MAGA.
nor is there much of a future for the oligarchy planned by Project 2025.
You paint a lovely ray of hope Thomas. Look at how we all still revere the writings of Abraham Lincoln, and how we all still gaze in wonder at the paintings of poor Van Gogh who died in poverty, mentally ill and not knowing his later fame.
Reading it now! You have become one of my favorite people and your voice literally helps regulate my nervous system and calms me down so I can take action to fight back. Thank you 🙏
Me too! Helps me with regulating my over anxious nervous system. Helps me better understand the world around me. It's an excellent book thus far. Not finished. I check my email everyday for what Mr. Reich has to say. It's my lifeline so to speak. Hugs, D~
His writings are a lifeline in our complicated timeline!
My wife already put me on this book and it’s a must read!
I read your daily posts, know about your book, and love you dearly. I’ve committed to read your book because you asked. I knew I wanted to and now will joyfully find the time.
Exactly.
I got it because you asked and I had the audible credit already! But still bought nonetheless so keep asking.