Don't Take My Lemonade Stand, by Janie Johnson
Review by W.J. Rayment / Conservative Bookstore -- Common Sense Conservatism is basic. It is what every person who honestly looks at the real world will see. Therefor, logically, it should need no explanation. Yet the fact is, people have complicated their own lives to such a degree, and have become so adept at self-deception that they shield themselves from sociological truths. For example, it is obvious that governments are less efficient than individuals. Yet, supposedly brilliant policy wonks in Washington are seeking, every day, new ways to regulate our lives because they blindly believe, in the face of centuries of historical evidence to the contrary, that they can do a better job. It is hubris. In a sane and intelligent country these people would be putting their time to more productive uses. This is why the tenets of conservatism need to be spelled out.
What are the basic tenets of Common Sense Conservatism? In her new book, "Don't Take My Lemonade Stand", Janie Johnson derives the "American Philosophy". She claims no political offices on her resume. She claims only to be a mom who has thoroughly researched our political history and has experienced life - to see what does work and what does not. She lays out eleven basic ideas that undergird Common Sense Conservatism:
- Strong Defense
- Domestic Tranquility
- Right to Self-Defense
- Capitalism
- Property Rights
- Free Trade
- Fiscal Responsibility
- Limited Government
- Individual Freedom
- Personal Responsibility
- Moral Character and Values
Janie Johnson's succinctly written book is all about how we can educate our children and the general public to the importance of these ideas and the best ways to implement them. Ultimately, conservatism is conservatism. The subject matter is not what is new here, but the presentation. The format of the book is out of the ordinary. Yes, it is divided into chapters. But each section hass a list of questions - ostensibly to be asked children to check their understanding of basic conservative notions. But the questions will also test the reader's comprehension and reinforce his memory. The book also contains illustrative stories, revealing cartoons, and summaries. The book is geared toward mothers and women, to help them cope with the liberal world around them and fight against its negative and destructive influences upon children.
What I love about this book is that Janie Johnson never speaks down to the reader. Even long-time conservatives, who are well-versed in conservative ideology will find the book constructive. Janie Johnson has a facility for boiling ideas down into clear, pointed, and memorable statements delivered in a clear and readable language. In fact, I would recommend this book to anyone doing preps for a debate. It would be a great read just before going to a family gathering where politics is likely to be discussed. It's like a whet-stone upon which you can sharpen your conservative ideology. In reading the book I often found myself mumbling, "I wish I had said that!"
"Don't Take My Lemonade Stand: An American Philosophy", by Janie Johnson is one of the clearest documents on conservatism to come out in a long time. It is highly recommended, especially for moms trying to educate their children. It is also a good book for anyone wanting to get the straight scoop on Common Sense Conservatism.
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