Fanatics and Fools: The Game Plan for Winning Back America

New York: Hyperion Books, 2004. Third Printing. Hardcover. Very good/very good. 370 pages. Signed by the author. Arianna Huffington is a rare breed of political celebrity: an articulate pundit who left the intellectually safe world of criticizing elected officials to try her hand at actually becoming one. While her campaign for Governor of California in the highly unusual 2003 recall election was unsuccessful, the experience has brought valuable insight and perspective. Few skilled opinion-makers ever get out and run themselves, and Huffington brings humor and humility to her account. Her characterization of Arnold Schwarzenegger includes stinging criticisms of his policies, but conveys grudging admiration for the actor turned Governor. Her criticisms of Bush and the Republicans are impassioned. Huffington's wit and candor, coupled with her recently gained battleground experience, make for a terrific read.