The Partly Cloudy Patriot

I'm certain I would have enjoyed “The Partly-Cloudy Patriot” more if I'd read it when it came out 22 years ago. It is interesting to take a time machine of sorts to snarky, left-leaning commentaries about George W. Bush's first term when Bill Clinton's Presidency wasn't such a distant memory (Bill doesn't get an easy pass from Sarah either). The thing to know before diving in is that this is a collection of barely-related essays unlike the very cohesive “Assassination Vacation.”

What I always enjoy about Sarah Vowell's pieces are historical footnotes that she expands into observations about the quirks of the political system & figures, how odd the US really is, and human weirdsies. In fact, I have sought out historical sites based on a mention in other books of Sarah's.

I have a somewhat personal bone to pick with Ms. Vowell. There's an essay about the underground lunchroom at Carlsbad National Park, specifically the evils of such a thing. Although I could see discontinuing microwave use or certain types of foods, it was actually pretty cool. Plus, if you opt out of the elevator from the visitor center, having a place to take a break and have a snack is really nice. There also aren't that many places for groups to congregate if the Big Room group seating is in use. How much harm would smashing the cafeteria to bits cause?

The audiobook includes several guest readers in a definition to Sarah's characteristic voice, with music thrown in by They Might Be Giants.