Review: What Unites Us: Reflections on Patriotism by Dan Rather and Elliot Kirschner

Title: What Unites Us: Reflections on Patriotism
Authors: Dan Rather and Elliot Kirschner
Format: Hardcover
Publisher: Algonquin Books
Publish Date: November 7, 2017
Source: Library

What's the Story?:

"At a moment of crisis over our national identity, venerated journalist Dan Rather has emerged as a voice of reason and integrity, reflecting on—and writing passionately about—what it means to be an American. Now, with this collection of original essays, he reminds us of the principles upon which the United States was founded. Looking at the freedoms that define us, from the vote to the press; the values that have transformed us, from empathy to inclusion to service; the institutions that sustain us, such as public education; and the traits that helped form our young country, such as the audacity to take on daunting challenges in science and medicine, Rather brings to bear his decades of experience on the frontlines of the world’s biggest stories. As a living witness to historical change, he offers up an intimate view of history, tracing where we have been in order to help us chart a way forward and heal our bitter divisions."

My Two Cents:

If you're feeling a little down and out by everything that is going on in our world right now, particularly in the United States, and you want a little inspiration, this is a great book for you. I have always liked Dan Rather. He seems like very much an old-school newsman who deals in facts and analysis while providing comfort in difficult times. I have loved following his News and Guts page on Facebook so I was excited to read this book and I was not disappointed!


Dan Rather looks at our American patriotism from many different angles. Where did we come from? What is important to us? What do we take pride in? Where are we striving for more? His mini-essays in this book are incredibly thought-provoking and are meant to be meditated on. This is definitely not a book that you should rush through - there is so much to think about here! I love books that bring up strong emotions for me and this book definitely did that!