RECESSIONAL by David Mamet was a big disappointment. Given a subtitle that says, "The Death of Free Speech and the Cost of the Free Lunch," I expected a cogent argument (albeit from a conservative perspective) on free speech, but the phrase only appears a half dozen times in the entire text. Instead, this is a collection of rambling essays, several of which had been previously published in National Review. So sad to see Mamet accusing teachers of being pedophiles to create some buzz for this book. Instead, we should all be working to promote civil discourse and the value of democratic institutions like our libraries. There is much to be done and this book and its promotional campaign are not contributing positively to the debate. Kirkus: "a bitter, boring litany" and Publisher’s Weekly: "undercooked essays … scattershot quality."

David Mamet is a national treasure, and everyone must read his excellent book! This collection of short essays on all matter of topics is a real treat to read and you will come away with a much better understanding of almost every topic that Mr. Mamet tackles. Buy this book and read it! It is a real pleasure.

I will be promoting this book as much as possible. Author Mamet uses his passion for words, ideas, combined with (most importantly) experience.
I'm a "Basic Betty." - yet love Mamet (I have to use the dictionary function a few times on my Kindle while reading his work) because he UNDERSTANDS AMERICANS - having been in the elite inner circle, when he discovered this inner circle paid mostly lip service to compassion and certainly did not walk the walk, he wrote The Secret Knowledge and was Cancelled before Cancel Culture reached it's golden age (2020/2021).
This is a book of essays is a beautiful reflection of history of the Individual, of Golden Days, of questionable incidents now perhaps more obvious;.
I once read Andrew Breitbart was inspired by The Secret Knowledge, which led me to David Mamet's book, and led me to a whole new understanding of human nature.
This is a book I'll treasure. And refer often to the spots I've highlighted.
This doesn't matter what side of the political spectrum you're on, it only matters if you care about the principals and people of America.
It's beautifully written and a book to be savored.
10/10