What is it?

The ✨Make America Read Again✨ Book Club is a deep dive into the books, ideas, and people that shaped American thought and history.

It’s a podcast + newsletter series that aims to deeply examine the political, philosophical, and historical foundations of who we are, what shaped us, where we are today — and ultimately, how we can all continue to create what our Founding Fathers called “a more perfect Union”.

MARA is not about one ideology or party over another — and in fact is aimed at bringing together a rich diversity of voices & perspectives into one place.

MARA is a journey to the heart of what it means to bring out the best in ourselves as citizens — the “better angels of our nature” — so that we can overcome our divisions, face our current challenges, and forge greater freedom and flourishing in America & in the world.

Where is it?

This book club is open and public for all who want to participate by reading along.

It will be “hosted” on:

  1. The Due Diligence Podcast (Spotify, Apple)
  2. Substack newsletter
  3. Social media (TikTok, Instagram, Twitter/X)

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Manifesto:

  1. Information is power. The more we understand, the stronger we are.
  2. Truth is nuanced. Most divisions are caused by an oversimplification of truth.
  3. Politics can bring out our best selves—or worst. We get to choose.
  4. Civility matters. How we engage is just as important as what we engage about.
  5. Citizenship is a sacred duty. Doing our part is how we love our neighbor.
  6. Our vision is our strength. The American Creed is what unites & prospers us.
  7. The work is never done. Our values are aspirations that we each get to fulfill. </aside>

Selection of reading material

These works are selected based on three criteria:

  1. CIVICS 101: Does it establish a better understanding of American history or identity?
  2. IDEAS & IDEOLOGIES: Does it help explain essential American ideologies or schools of thought?
  3. CURRENT DAY: Does it shed light on important issues or challenges of our time?

This list is not final, comprehensive, or authoritative. It’s an evolving curation of the ideas, people, and historical moments that shed light on who we are & how things work in our society. The goal is to help citizens become more informed with a richer understanding of the politics, economics, and history of America in a way that is directed but accessible.