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Our Books

A Journey Through U.S. Leadership and Crisis Management

Daniel Ostrander’s books, “Read My Lips: No New Taxes” and “George W. Bush and the 2007-08 Financial Crisis,” provide unparalleled insights into the art of presidential leadership during crises and the decision-making processes during critical junctures in American history. Combining academic depth with firsthand accounts, these works delve into the challenges, triumphs, and complexities faced by two iconic leaders—George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush.

“Read My Lips: No New Taxes”

As one of the best books on presidential leadership, it takes readers into the heart of one of the most defining moments in American history books – the 1990 Budget Deal, a turning point in George H.W. Bush’s presidency. Renowned for his promise of “no new taxes,” Bush faced immense political and economic pressure to address the rising deficit. Daniel Ostrander skillfully examines how Bush’s pragmatism and willingness to prioritize national interest over political expediency led to structural budget reforms, including the introduction of the “pay-as-you-go” system and enforceable spending caps.

Ostrander draws historical leadership lessons from past presidents like Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln, emphasizing the importance of governance in politics. This US leadership book features speeches, press conferences, and detailed analyses and serves as a “profile in courage” for leaders navigating difficult decisions.

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George W. Bush and the 2007-08 Financial Crisis

In this compelling account, Ostrander explores George W. Bush’s leadership during the 2007-2008 financial meltdown, one of the most severe economic crises in modern history. The book offers invaluable historical leadership lessons and delves into the causes of the crisis, including deregulation, globalization, and the greed of Wall Street and Main Street

It provides a detailed narrative of the Bush administration’s “all-in policy,” including the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP), which stabilized the economy and prevented a depression. Ostrander highlights the balance Bush struck between ideological conservatism and the need for bold intervention, showcasing his vision, pragmatism, and resilience under immense pressure.

For anyone looking to understand leadership during a crisis, these Dan Ostrander books provide an unputdownable narrative on the power of decision-making in times of uncertainty.