The Plot Against America

An astonishing attempt at narrative invention, our most ambitious novelist imagines an alternate version of American history. In 1940 Charles A. Lindbergh, heroic aviator and rabid isolationist, is elected President. Shortly thereafter, he negotiates a cordial “understanding” with Adolf Hitler, while the new government embarks on a program of folksy anti-Semitism.

For one boy growing up in Newark, Lindbergh’s election is the first in a series of ruptures that threatens to destroy his small, safe corner of America – and with it, his mother, his father, and his older brother.

“It is no longer a matter,” says Churchill, “of the great American democracy taking military action to save us. The time has come for American citizens to take civil action to save themselves.”

The Plot Against America by Philip Roth is a thought-provoking and chilling alternate-history novel that explores the consequences of a fascist and anti-Semitic presidency in the United States during World War II. Roth’s writing is captivating and his ability to blend historical events with fictional elements is commendable.

One of the strengths of the book lies in Roth’s skillful characterization. The story is told through the eyes of a young Jewish boy named Philip, allowing readers to witness the impact of the political climate on his family and the Jewish community. The characters are well-developed and their struggles and fears feel authentic, adding emotional depth to the narrative.

Roth’s exploration of themes such as bigotry, fear, and the fragility of democracy is both timely and thought-provoking. He raises important questions about the vulnerability of democratic institutions and the potential consequences of intolerance and extremism. The book serves as a cautionary tale, reminding readers of the importance of vigilance and the need to safeguard democratic values.

However, some readers may find the pacing of the story uneven. While the initial setup is intriguing and the tension gradually builds, the resolution feels somewhat rushed, leaving certain plotlines and character arcs underdeveloped. Additionally, some critics argue that Roth’s portrayal of historical figures, particularly Charles Lindbergh, veers into caricature, compromising the nuance of the narrative.

Unfortunately, it appears that Mr. Roth was under the gun to meet a publishing deadline and didn’t put much thought into giving the book a good ending. The rise AND the defeat of a fascist American government happened in a total of EIGHT (8) pages. The entire escapade is condensed into a short newsreel blurb.

Overall, The Plot Against America is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that raises important questions about the fragility of democracy. While it has its shortcomings, Roth’s exploration of alternate history and his powerful examination of bigotry and its impact on individuals and society make this book a worthwhile read.