Reviewed by Mohammed Ouhemmou for Readers' Favorite

Writing about politicians always proves to be a difficult job, however, writing about an influential character such as Ronald Reagan is an even more difficult task. Paul Kengor’s 11 Principles of Reagan Conservatism tells us what made Americans rank Ronald Reagan as the greatest president for many years? What enabled him to win the votes of forty-four out of fifty states in the presidential elections of 1980? Paul Kengor gives us insights to Reagan’s conservative philosophy and agenda. An agenda which is made up of 11 principles, such as Freedom, Faith, Family, Sanctity and Dignity of Human Life, American Exceptionalism, Lower Taxes, Limited Government, and Peace Through Strength. Paul Kengor points out all the features and attributes which made Reagan a great American president, without forgetting to address the criticism directed at him. But what is even more interesting is that the author skillfully describes all that is good in Reagan’s career without falling into the trap of blunt propaganda.

In simple words, Paul Kengor’s book is a gateway to Reagan’s political philosophy, and most importantly it is a pleasure to read whether you like Reagan or not. The book is highly interesting, not only for the American or the Western reader, but also for people from other parts of the world. Reagan is not a man who defended only American or Christian values, but rather a man who epitomizes human values that people all over the world can relate to. He is a man who stands for many values and ideals which humans hold dear. Reagan’s concern with freedom, family, and the right of life certainly appeal to all people. Moreover, Reagan’s unyielding belief in the importance of lowering taxes makes all people ask if they could have a Reagan is their countries, and want to read Paul Kengor’s book. After finishing the book, I personally asked myself why we do not have a Reagan in my country.