Review: "The Amateur" by Edward Klein

Like Dinesh D'Souza's "2016" and probably like a lot of books I have not yet read, "The Amateur" is a warning cry against the reelection of Barack Obama in 2012. We all know how persuasive those things were. In 2012 we witnessed tens of millions of Americans vote against their self-interest to promote the welfare of their beloved cult leader.

So yes, there is a pervasive "what's the point?" cloud hanging over the narrative. I wanted to read the book anyway prior to taking on "Blood Feud..." Klein's follow-up that deals primarily with the Clinton--Obama feud. "The Amateur" also deals with that lingering feud. In fact, the book's title is derived from Bill Clinton's description of our 44th president.

One of the most enduring debates of our era goes something like this: Is Obama deliberately destructive or grossly incompetent or both? I say both. Yes, he hates all things American but even when he wants something real bad, he still has trouble placing one foot in front of the other. Witness his efforts to bring the Olympics to Chicago or his attempt to get Israel to go retro on their borders. 'Amateur' was the only apt term at times like these.

Klein might the be dean of the ineptitude school. He does not theorize much about hidden agenda, red diaper babies, closet jihadists or bitter anti-imperialistic sympathies. In that respect, he gives "The One" a lot of leeway. He makes his futile case against the Obama Presidency based on the president's temperament, his lack of leadership experience, his frighteningly poor interpersonal skills and a sheltered life that freed him from the burden of decision-making.

Klein recounts a loud argument between Bill and Hillary. Bill wanted his wife to primary Obama in 2012. Chelsea walks in and sides with Bill. Chelsea despises Obama more than Michael Savage ever will. She has not gotten over the way the Chicago thugs treated her mother in 2008.

This book has plenty of gossip. Oprah. Michelle. Valerie. Klein is not catty (well he did repeat someone's description of Michelle as 'Barack's bitter half') but his subjects sure are. The portrait of the president is one we have gotten to know. He is a vain, petulant man who takes even the smallest disagreement personally. He will retire in luxury and that is a good thing because I don't think anyone would ever hire him for a job "with actual responsibilities."

Is "The Amateur" too dated? No. It sets the stage for "Blood Feud..." and the unfolding real life conflict within the Democratic Party. I recommend this book.