Review of The Not So Great American Novel

[Kibet Hillary]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Not So Great American Novel" by James E. Doucette.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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I have learned the best possible solution is not always the perfect solution. My advice is to deal with the facts you have and come to the best possible answer. There will always be setbacks and disappointments, but never lose faith in yourself.
— Doucette, James. The Not So Great American Novel (P. 234). James E. Doucette (Kindle Edition)

James Doucette opens his memoir by recounting his childhood, providing a commentary on his ancestry. The journey down memory lane reveals days of happiness devoid of many modern technological advances that still leave some complaining of loneliness and boredom. However, his childhood days were not just a bed of roses. Doucette recounts how Pete Donovan, one of those who used to hang out with them, ended up in the electric chair for his involvement in a bank robbery and the killing of a bank guard. This serves as a lesson on the influence of one’s company, reinforcing the idea that bad company corrupts good morals. From the start, he infuses the book with humor and paradoxical statements that leave the reader chuckling while still learning a lot. When asked why he wrote this book, he said it was for his grandchildren. He repeatedly states that his greatest achievement and source of pride is his family.

The Not So Great American Novel by James E. Doucette is a memoir detailing not only the author's life but also broader issues, including life in general and politics. James has been a successful employee and employer, particularly following his acquisition of several cable television businesses and ventures in the banking industry, starting with The First National Bank of Lockney. On life in general, the author reveals the most important things, including the need to create time to be with family. One of the greatest pieces of advice he gives is the importance of not being vengeful, even when one has the power to seek revenge. There are many lessons, including the importance of having diverse investment portfolios, the readiness to sacrifice for one's desired dream, and the value of peaceful coexistence with nature, making the book suitable for all ardent readers of memoirs.

James emphasizes that democracy works due to the separation of powers and having checks and balances in place to avoid abuse of power. In this book, he addresses instances where the Executive has waged war without debate and a declaration of war by Congress. What I liked most about the book were the occasional statements that stood out amidst the narrations. For instance, the author states, "One's rewards are not always measured in dollars." Indeed, life is not all about money, touching on the fact that society, not just markets, seems to be increasingly money-driven. However, some statements sound contradictory. The author warns against revenge but mentions instances where he was elated by 'extracting a small amount of revenge.' Due to this, I rate The Not So Great American Novel four out of five stars. Apart from such isolated statements, the book is informative, enlightening, and entertaining.

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The Not So Great American Novel
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[Martin Shae]

James Doucette's memoir begins with a nostalgic look at his childhood, blending commentary on his ancestry with vivid recollections of simpler, happier times. Despite the absence of modern technology, Doucette's early years were not without challenges. He shares the cautionary tale of Pete Donovan, a childhood acquaintance who ended up on death row, underscoring the impact of one's company. Doucette's writing is infused with humor and paradoxes, offering both entertainment and wisdom. Written for his grandchildren, he emphasizes that his greatest achievement and pride is his family.