Hitting the Books with Gary Thorne: "The Road to Character"

David Brooks, author of "The Road to Character," is a columnist for the New York Times and frequent guest on news shows, particularly on public radio and television. He is often self-effacing, yet unafraid to make his points.

The-Road-To-Character.jpgThat is his approach in this book. He longs for a greater sense of "character" on an individual basis in this country, finding the "celebration of self," often cited as the narcissism of our time, to be unflattering to each of us and to our national "character."

The quotes I've placed around "character" are meant to indicate a definition is not easy to come by. This book helps the reader consider that definition as it relates to the individual and to a nation.

Brooks' theme is to cite the lives of others, from Augustine to President Dwight D. Eisenhower, and point out character traits such as humility, decency, inner strength and selflessness.

Brooks believes if we read of those who lived by such traits, perhaps we will do the same.

Yet he recognizes we all have our own egos to be served and wonders how others have and how we might serve both the inner and outer self.

One comparison is between Johnny Unitas and Joe Namath. Interesting juxtaposition, or is it?

Not being a fan of self-help guides, there was some reluctance to pick this book up since it sounded like it might be one. After reading it, I don't think so. The book is a more mindful examination of what character is and what it can mean in our lives.

Thinking is not a bad exercise. This book will make you think.

"Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are." - John Wooden

"Hitting the Books" is delighted to feature this week's recommendation from Carla D. Hayden, CEO of the Enoch Pratt Free Library. Her outstanding work at the Pratt Library has resulted in a rare and terrific honor: She has been nominated by President Barack Obama to become the 14th Librarian of Congress. We wish her well in the nomination process and in the work at one of this country's most valuable institutions.

Her recommendation: "War of Two: Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr, and the Duel that Stunned the Nation" by John Sedgwick

"The Broadway musical 'Hamilton' is a phenomenon that shines beyond the Great White Way," Hayden says. "It has many of us hitting the books or Googling more about one of this country's founding fathers. This book explores the story and rivalry that ultimately led the infamous duel between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr. It is deeply researched and well written. A must-read, even if you're not a history buff. It's compelling and very engaging. "

Gary Thorne is the play-by-play voice of the Orioles on MASN, and the 2016 season is his 10th with the club and 31st covering Major League Baseball. His blog will appear regularly throughout the season. Children 5-12 can get a head start on celebrating Mother's Day by creating a special card for their mother, grandmother or another special person in their lives at the Canton Branch of the Enoch Pratt Free Library, 1030 S. Ellwod Ave., on Saturday May 7 at 11 a.m. during a special arts and crafts session.

* Hitting the Books with Gary Thorne. © Copyright 2016 Gary F. Thorne. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog's author is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Gary F. Thorne and MASNsports.com with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

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