My Fellow Americans

By Michael Worek

Hardcover, 312 pages ($29.95)

Amazon 1554075491



Since its beginnings, America has looked to its presidents for words of action or assurance. This collection of speeches from 1933 to 2009 features the full text of the most inspirational and inspiring Chief of State addresses from FDR to Barack Obama. With 30 black-and-white photos illustrative of the times, it’s a must for history buffs and a handy reminder for everyone of the power—and beauty—of words in times of crisis, celebration and change.

—Neil Pond, American Profile



The Soloist

DVD ($29.98)

Amazon B002C39SQK



This true tale of a homeless, mentally ill musician (Jamie Foxx) and the newspaper reporter who champions him (Robert Downey Jr.) was a box-office downer that didn’t bring in the crowds when it was released earlier this year. But Foxx and Downey dig in to their roles with a passion that fits the heart-tugging tones of the story, adapted from the book by the same title by Los Angeles Times columnist Steve Lopez. And generous DVD extras, including a feature on the two real-life men on which it is based, reinforce the themes of friendship, respect and redemption.

—Neil Pond, American Profile



John Fogerty

The Blue Ridge Rangers Rides Again

CD ($13.98)

Amazon B002GYHIVM



The former Creedence Clearwater Revival front man brings aboard a core of top-notch studio players for this delightfully rockin’ cover-song romp through a dozen American folk, pop and country classics, including John Prine’s “Paradise,” John Denver’s “Back Home Again” and Buck Owens’ “I Don’t Care (Just As Long As You Love Me).” Don Henley and Timothy B. Schmit of the Eagles join for Ricky Nelson’s “Garden Party,” and it’s musical magic when Bruce Springsteen hops aboard for Phil Everly’s “When Will I Be Loved.” This rollicking, rolling ride is over far too soon.

—Neil Pond, American Profile