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The book was completely one-sided, which I don't have a problem with since everybody is free to express their own opinions, except I perceive too much hate for the opposite side. The author doesn't only argue his idea, he unfairly cuts down anybody who opposes it. I liked the book for giving me good starting points to think about, but his depiction of Republicans gave me a hard time finishing the book.

Can anyone else see that it is actually bizarre to claim that safety, life itself, and the removal of threats/risk of violence or death for children, seniors and people of all ages, is a concern of only one ‘side’ of politics?! Surely these should be foundational values for all people but especially community, state and national leaders? How have we arrived at this place where there is such little regard for human life?

Despite his claims in the Foreword, Van Fleisher obviously leans far to the left. His comments about right-wing media and Republican congressmen makes that clear. The nicknames he gives his "fictional" congressmen are childish at best. I consider myself a centrist on the issue of guns. I believe in the Second Amendment, but also see no need for assault rifles. Arming teachers is the dumbest thing anyone has ever suggested (and I'm a teacher). The NRA has too much political clout. I have owned guns, I have friends who own guns, and we go shooting together. But if Fleisher was trying to write a political satire, it just came off as a mean-spirited rant.

This book was definitely left-leaning, though it tried to show both sides. I’m afraid right-leaning people won’t be mollified enough to get much out of it

In my opinion this book was way too left sided. I actually lean towards the left, so it's not that I don't agree with some of the things stated in the book. However, I felt that the author's political views were pushed on the reader at the expense of the writing. I so enjoyed the storyline, but there were times that I felt I was just reading the author's political beliefs instead of a story. That's what bothered me about it.

While I have to agree that this book does lean towards the left side... I still applaud the author for using the old couple to try to explain circumstances of life that would make someone want to go out and buy a gun.

JessNWheeler wrote: ↑01 Mar 2018, 13:18 The book was definitely left-leaning, but it’s really sad that the “right” doesn’t see the importance of this issue. The author is aware that the book is one-sided. In the author’s note he mentions that he is probably “preaching to the choir.” I wish that he would have created a character that would have appealed more to the gun lovers out there. They need this novel more than anyone.

I love the books that involve actions and guns. But I was a little disappointed due to the fact that it had less things that were interesting including the fact that the story was one sided.

The author does mention some of the opinions of those who favour gun use, but does so in this rather scathing light that doubtlessly demonstrates his take on the arguments of the book. It's left-leaning, no argument, but written intentionally so to emphasize the viewpoint Fleisher attempts to transmit.

The book seems to be talking about topics for one point of view so I would say that it was being one sided with its argument. I think that being one sided with your argument is ok it helps to get their point across and may give others ideas they never thought off. The author also noted his idea of being left sided.

JessNWheeler wrote: ↑01 Mar 2018, 13:18 The book was definitely left-leaning, but it’s really sad that the “right” doesn’t see the importance of this issue. The author is aware that the book is one-sided. In the author’s note he mentions that he is probably “preaching to the choir.” I wish that he would have created a character that would have appealed more to the gun lovers out there. They need this novel more than anyone.

I was discussing this issue with my husband today. I was talking about how I think I am going to stop posting political stuff on social media because most of my friends on them think like me. The reason I keep doing it is for the few that don't as well as hoping someone might share it and it get to the person that needs to read it. I agree with you, I think it would have behooved Fleisher to appear a bit more neutral. No debate is won by just shoving your opinions (and facts) at the other side. It is a give and take.

RebeccasReading wrote: ↑01 Mar 2018, 15:17 Right from the beginning, the author establishes his political leanings by the way it describes Fox News. Since I have the same leanings, I was fine with it. However, I can see this being a frustrating read for those who are anti gun control.

I actually laughed out loud when he was talking about Fox News. Vince's reaction felt so real to me, as it would have been the reaction of most people I associate with it. I did find it surprising how it was introduced though. I would never stop on that channel knowing I hate it. I thought that overhearing it somewhere would have made more sense. That is just me being nitpicky though.

The book is clearly left-leaning. The author himself expresses it that way from the start. I think that, as in any other case, the story would have benefited from the perspective from the other side, perhaps some character who could have used a weapon to defend himself or his family. Of course, the latter would have been difficult to include considering how the plot works, but it could have been worth a try.

I found myself wondering if a right-leaning person would stop at the first chapter. I hope not, but I'm guessing some readers would not want to finish the book.

The book does lean more heavily towards liberals but I think it also does address conservative points.

To be honest I think the author's point of view heavily influenced the book and he has the creative license to do that. He is obviously anti-guns and there are readers who will agree with him. I don't think there is anything fair on unfair about the book. The author used this platform to discuss an issue that is cause for concern. There are those who are pro-gun and they are entitled to their opinions. I think the book is just a great way to start an important conversation we all need to have.