Book Review: Prequel

As you may know by now, I read more fiction than non-fiction books, but with our nation seemingly repeating history’s worst decisions, I was drawn to this book. I picked it up in hopes to gain a better understanding of our past and how we made it through those trying times. I was aware there was a fascist movement in the U.S. during the 1920’s and 30’s but I was stunned me to see the depth of it.  

Prequel is the story of An American Fight Against Fascism. In her book she details our history with fascism and antisemitism starting back in the 1920’s and going through World War II. She does an amazing job looking at some of the key people working to push our nation towards fascism. More importantly, those that fought against it.  Rachel brings receipts too, providing names, quotes, and actions throughout our history of highly influential people trying to move our nation towards fascism. Senators, Governors, Generals, and other highly influential individuals like Henry Ford. Where all dead set on overturning of our democracy and installing a strong man ruler.

Some of the most important names are the ones that fought against it. Some of these forgotten heroes are prosecutors like William Power Maloney or O John Rogge. Citizens like Henry Hoke and Leon Lewis who started a citizen driven investigation and stopped some surprising plots. Even at great risk to themselves, their families and those that dared to work with them. They kept fighting to save our country.

Without giving away any more of this amazing book, on my scale of 1 to 5, 1 being don’t bother and 5 a real page turner, I must give Prequel, a solid, 5. This book really draws some scary parallels between then and now. All with the hope of providing an understanding and shining a light on a path to overcome the challenges ahead.