The Speechwriter: A Brief Education in Politics

Swaim recounts numerous anecdotes from a three-year stint as a speech writer for former South Carolina governor Mark Sanford. Much of the book is an entertaining inside look at state politics and how the wheels of executive office grind. Many of the stories relate the thankless dedication of the staff in contrast with the ego-enlarged antics of politicians. Reader Yen solidly projects with his deep and commanding voice, which maintains the listener’s attention. He moves through the narration at a steady pace, only becoming more deliberate when it fits within a given anecdote. Unfortunately, Yen fails to capture the light and humorous tone Swaim takes when relaying the ridiculousness of his work. As a result Yen’s attitude in the narration comes across as self-righteous, making Swaim seem just as petty as his boss. A Simon & Schuster hardcover. (July)