I think the member who wrote the first review on this book used an apt phrase, which perfectly describes one of the reasons I enjoyed this book and that was "neutral stance" . As a non-American I have to admit that it is sometimes mentally tiring to deal with some American author's assumptions, often only occasionally hinted at, of American Uniqueness, Triumphalism or always being on the side of the angels. This book with its "neutral stance" removed the necessity of constantly being mentally vigilant in attempting to deal with those hidden assumptions.
The book is short but I think has a perfect balance of a survey and particular facts. It gave me, in a few pages new ways of looking at the topic, but also provided me with a provided me with ways of looking at complex issues that had always left me slightly confused. Yes it is dry and at times you have to force yourself to continue, but I think well worth the effort. ( )

I had to get it as part of my American History class in university...And while I love history, I'm only just now finishing the first half and I would rather beat myself over the head with it than continue reading it. It's just so...dry. Sigh. It has good information and takes a neutral stance, but it's just so terribly boring so far. ( )