Official Review: 2020: A Pivotal Year? by Robbin F. Laird

[Rosemary Wright]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "2020: A Pivotal Year?" by Robbin F. Laird.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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2020: A Pivotal Year?, by Robbin F. Laird, is a collection of previously published articles on the impact of COVID on global politics and the strategic change experienced by nations in the year 2020. Moreover, it gives fresh insights into the challenge of building resilient organizations, effective crisis management approaches, crisis leadership, defense strategies, "the QUAD and its evolution," and so forth. In summary, it unveils the challenge of navigating strategic change during the coronavirus pandemic.

This book consists of six parts. The first part is about navigating the COVID world, highlighting the assessment of the disease and its effect on defense. The second part is on global strategic dynamics, giving the assessment of the Pacific, the Middle East, and Brazil. The third tells about European dynamics, revealing developments in the whole of Europe. The fourth part is on Australian dynamics. The fifth is a history section, which tells about Brazil and the U.S. during and after World War ll, Calouste Gulbenkian, the Abraham Accords, the beginnings of globalization and so on. The last part is the conclusion of the book, providing essays on Europe and the Mediterranean's challenges in 2021 as well as "the UK, France and sovereignty in the 21st century." It also includes brief information about the authors of the articles and interviewees.

The book is well written and enlightening. In an in-depth way, it shows how a crisis such as a pandemic can be managed. It's straightforward and comprehensible. I've never liked books on political, economic, and defense matters because most of their authors utilize big words, but I understood this one since it is readable and flows smoothly. Furthermore, I like how the analysts use several real-life stories and situations to get their points across, such as Boris Johnson's response to the COVID-19 pandemic after the release of the "SAGE minutes."

However, though the book is written in an eloquent manner, it's somewhat cumbersome. Besides, since the views are being given through published articles by analysts, the writing is intellectual and serious. Hence, it's not for readers who prefer light books. Well, it's a worthwhile read that has broadened my understanding of crisis management and leadership. It highlights how COVID has impacted many nations and the way forward.

In conclusion, I rate 2020: A Pivotal Year? 4 out of 4 stars. I didn't rate it lower because it's coherent and eye-opening. Its ideas are well presented. In addition, it was professionally edited; I noticed just a couple of errors. It'll be a good read for anyone who wants to know about the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on global politics.

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2020: A Pivotal Year?
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[El_limitless]

A lot has been said about covid-19, but Robin seems interested in finding ways to navigate the virus. I'd love to read his opinion. Great review.

[Chigo Nwagboso]

...... I don't like books that have historical events in them. But, this seems to be one that'll enjoy. Great review.

[Peace Odii]

Most companies don't know how to manage crises. I'll love this piece.

[Sia P]

Although it appears to be an engaging book, I believe I will pass on it. Despite the fact that we are still in the midst of a pandemic, I would much rather read books about themes other than covid. However, it appears that the author conducted great study for this book, which is commendable! Thank you for your lovely review!