Customer Reviews

Reading for Survival

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If you have not read John D., don't start here. Find as many of his books as you can and grow, mature and enjoy the journey. Even before Travis McGee, Mac Donald had been recognized as a master. Stephen King, Carl Hiassen and scores of other writers and millions of fans are thankful for the time we spent under his spell. When your journey in time is done, read this. I did not read this until after his death. This essay made me recall the joy his writing could bring. With an economy of language, we are treated to a proof of the value of the well-read. I do miss him. I miss the anticipation of new work. I await the writer who can match his ability to teach something new while relying on the old values.

One of my kids showed me this treasure twenty years ago, when he was "made" to read it in high school. He was blown away by it, distracted from soccer, girls, beer. I have since purchased perhaps a hundred copies from the Broward County Library in Fort Lauderdale to give to students.

Guard your own copy jealously, and read it once a year.

I have long been a MacDonald fan. Patiently awaiting each new color, and enjoying his other books as well (including the science fiction and westerns). But, as we grow, we sometimes put away old flavors for new.

This past summer ( 2003 ), I began to collect hardbound copies of MacDonald's books as we traveled. I had the distinct pleasure of renewing my acquaintance with McGee and Meyer. In fact, I was surprised but pleasantly appreciative of the curmudgeonly approach of McGee in the 7 books as I re-enjoyed.

Then, a week ago, I stumbled across "Reading for Survival." It appeared as if by magic, complete with autograph. It was wonderful in the logical development, clear and careful arguments and enchanting, realistic Socratic dialog. The little pamphlet clearly presents the need for reading and decries the lack of it in modern society. It presents a possibility for the fanatic activities we have encountered both within and without our country.

I recommend this "broadside" for teachers, voters, and readers. If for no other reason than it offers a considered opinion for a "state" of our society.

For some people this could be a critical book on the journey to learning to love reading. It was that for me when I first read it many years ago.

You can do a google search for "McDondald McGee Reading For Survival" and there is a PDF file. It's locked for printing, but just click the "open as html", copy and paste it into Word and print your own copy.

Great find! Any new words from McGee and Meyer are a treasure found...

I'd be thrilled to review this book except Ihaven't received it yet. I ordered it Apr. 22Am I being impatient?