Bo Roberts begins Flaming Moderate: A Riveting Journey and Quest to Save Democracy by defining what this unusual pairing of words in the title represents. When serving as Chief of Staff to the Governor of Tennessee at the time when Martin Luther King was assassinated in Memphis, he had a key role in extinguishing the scorching flame of consequential mob violence. As CEO of the 1982 World’s Fair, there were fires to be nurtured, such as the inclusion of the People’s Republic of China, efforts that had a transformative state-wide impact. Roberts’ enflamed commitment to the betterment of the Volunteer State is the core theme, as expressed through a compilation of twenty years of op-ed columns advocating achievable solutions and reflecting his thoughts on moderation. His encapsulated portrait of Howard Baker, who represented the state for decades and achieved astounding success in the Senate through service as “The Great Conciliator," is inspirational. When Roberts advocated for building a domed stadium and system of mass transit, where long-term benefits would far exceed costs, he was in synch with Baker’s stalwart belief in the need for like-minded bi-partisan coalitions. 

Roberts consistently stresses necessary choices in line with the legacy of Tennessee’s honorable past and the hope of an even better future. In arguing for a purple party, he is somewhat cheeky in tone but direct in the intended message. His argument against proposed English-only drivers demonstrates the breadth of what is thought noteworthy. Emphatic insistence on the state honoring the worth of teachers and not reducing state-supported college tuition costs are issues he returns to several times because, in his view, there is nothing of greater importance. The national need for universal health care and the meeting between Trump and his North Korean counterpart, Kim Jong Un, are topics within his incisive scope, but Roberts’ focus is state-centered. As the reader progresses from section to section, a living portrait of Tennessee’s needs and priorities emerges, exemplifying what should be the same for every state in the Union. When reaching the final pages, Bo Roberts makes an excellent case for why the Declaration of Independence is equally relevant in the 21st century. Flaming Moderate is a book that has relevance for every American.

Flaming Moderate: A Riveting Journey and Quest to Save Democracy is a work of non-fiction in the government and politics, sociocultural issues, and motivational writing genres. Penned by author Bo Roberts, this engaging volume chronicles a compelling narrative of overcoming adversity and striving for progress amidst the challenges facing democracy. From confronting the specter of racism symbolized by a burning Ku Klux Klan cross to navigating the aftermath of Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination, the book captures the resilience and determination of individuals working toward positive change. Through insightful reflections and praise for effective public servants, Roberts highlights the importance of reasoned collaboration across political divides to address global, national, and local issues. The author delves into vital community and national issues, offering readers actionable insights to improve society and uphold democratic values.

Author Bo Roberts has crafted an enlightening and inspiring journey through the tumultuous landscape of American democracy that showcases firsthand accounts and astute observations. The information is clear and concise, shedding light on the challenges facing the nation and the individuals dedicated to finding solutions with enthusiasm and objectivity. The author offers a lot of hope and I appreciated the emphasis on constructive and meaningful dialogue, which is modeled very well by the narrative itself. The work is also well organized to build on previous ideas with a good, logical structure. It would serve well to introduce newcomers to the world of American politics who may be less familiar with how it all works. Roberts' call to action at the conclusion of the book is reasoned and emotionally impactful, and it’s sure to leave readers feeling empowered and motivated to engage more actively in the democratic process with a new, more fully-rounded perspective. Overall, Flaming Moderate is a rallying cry for citizens to come together and work toward a brighter future for all, and I’d certainly recommend it to anyone with a keen interest in politics and social change.