A Fistful of Ego

America's president in 1990 confronts an international and moral crisis when Israel threatens nuclear attacks unless the Arabs lift their naval blockade. Such action may bring about nuclear war between Russia and the U.S., in which event President Jennings has secretly determined that he will not order nuclear retaliation if the Soviets launch a preemptive strike. In collusion with other jingoists, Gen. Harley Reuss forces Jennings to proclaim his policy publicly, precipitating impeachment proceedings. This so-called novel is essentially a debate about the irrationality of present-day nuclear policies. Topol betrays his important subject by a naivete that borders on ignorance, and the result is a passionate book but one that lacks style and credibility. (March)