"The Unwinding, an inner history of the New America" book review













by George Packer
Published 2013
434 Pages




This book examines cause and effect of the economic meltdown of recent history through the experiences of a diverse group of people.  It is a disturbing, yet worthwhile read as it explores the financial difficulties of many people from different walks of life, regions of the U.S., socio-economic standing, political party, religious affiliation, education. 

Deregulation of banking and the stock market allowed the Robber Barons a comeback.  The almighty corporate profit margin resulted in Industry outsourcing manufacturing jobs abroad, goodbye American jobs. Big box stores enormous purchasing power (goods from abroad) closed the independents and revenues left our communities.  Oil holds us hostage at the gas pump.  The politicians have their hands out, regardless of party.

It’s not a rosy picture. 

We’re being fattened/poisoned by engineered food.  A parallel between cage-raised chicken that cannot walk trucked to markets for sale to obese people who also cannot walk chilled me.  

The days of easy access to oil is gone.  Fracking seems the answer to the oil industry, poisoning our water in the process. 

A beginning solution:  Buy local.  Plant a garden.  Give up McFood.  Make something.

This sounds simplistic and a little “I am you and you are me and we are all together” but still…

Anyway, good read.  Next book for me will be something light and not socially conscious.




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