The Wanting of Levine

by Michael Halberstam

335 pages Lippincott; 1st edition (1978) English

Genres: Fiction, Politics, Humor

Paperback

Published January 1, 1979

Reviews

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was written in 1978 and set in a future 1988. I first read it in the mid-80s when it was still describing a possible future. I've reread it many times since then, usually during a presidential election cycle. I've gotten something different out of it with each rereading.

The book is the story of A.L. Levine, the first Jewish man elected to the Presidency. (The book ends with his inauguration, so it's not technically about the first Jewish President.)

A.L. 'accidentally' becomes a candidate when the Democratic frontrunner drunkenly kills his wife and A.L.'s signature on a polling memo puts him on the list of potential candidates. The story goes back and forth in time between the behind-the-scenes political doings and A.L.'s life story.

Some things are still very relevant to our time--philandering politicians are timeless. On the other hand, the book does not anticipate the changes brought about by the internet and the 24 hour cable news cycle.

You have to go to your library to read this, as it's not currently in print. I would definitely recommend doing so. It's a fun read and it'll make those political ads less annoying.

[David Faye · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best book that no one knows. Period.

[Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

One the best unknown political classics, as far as I am concerned. Very enjoyable. I have read it several time and pick up on new themes each time. Highly recommended,,

[Bob · Rating 3 out of 5]

Yes, I liked it. It was a quirky political satire about the election of the first Jewish President. However, I also found it to be uneven: three quarters of the way through the book, it took on a darker political thriller tone. That tone, in and of itself was not bad; I just wish Mr. Halberstam had introduced that element earlier in the book and stayed with it. Also, some characters appeared early on and then did not re-appear again until near the end of the book. Furthermore, the actual campaign, the interaction with his opponent and the American Constituency was almost non-existent. He also makes passing mention of certain national events, but he never really explains them and, at least this reader, was left a bit confused. Overall, it was a fun, if bumpy ride.

[Chris Amies · Rating 4 out of 5]

From what I recall an excellent and humorous imagination of how the US might get its first Jewish President. I must have read it when it was pretty much new which means a paperback from my local bookstore.

[Ridzuan Rosli · Rating 2 out of 5]

The experience of reading this book is monotonous. I guess I am not interested in the subject, which is political drama. I was only able to finish half of the book. Even then, I was lost in reading. My mind was thinking about something else. Anyway, let’s move on!