by Eric Metaxas
(c) 2016.
The title of this book is stolen from Benjamin Franklin when asked if we were founding a monarchy or a republic. With his classic quick wit, he responded, “A republic… if you can keep it.”
This book, by a radio talk show host, comprises a series of lecture-type chapters that admonishes patriotism instead of carelessness towards America. It contains many anecdotes which are interesting, such as that of Nathan Hale’s, “I regret only that I have but one life to give for my country.”
It lacks a central argument beyond the obvious patriotism. Maybe I haven’t experienced that anti-patriotism of the Northeast, but Metaxas’ pleadings seem somewhat obvious. He doesn’t really raise the conversation that highly beyond the obvious observation that we are killing each other with partisanship. Instead of exploring that topic in depth, he just sermonizes about one’s country in a very superficial manner.
I like Metaxas’ other works on Bonhoeffer and Luther. Despite the entertaining stories, this work lacks a fundamental central idea. I’d take a pass on this one.