On January 8, 2025, LWVSP's Morning Book Club discussed The Thirty-First of March by Horace Busby,  a memoir of Lyndon B. Johnson's final days in office. Busby, who served as Johnson's speechwriter and advisor, writes about his perspective on the president's personality, politics, and work habits. The book highlights the turbulent period leading up to Johnson's announcement on March 31, 1968, that he would not seek re-election. Busby recounts the challenges and pressures Johnson faced, including the Vietnam War and civil unrest.  He also shares personal stories about Johnson's leadership style.  The memoir offers a behind-the-scenes look at the White House during a critical time in American history, highlighting Johnson's dedication to his duties despite the personal toll it took on him.

Our group talked about how LBJ wanted to continue FDR’s programs and wanted to have an impact on social justice. He didn’t care about how others thought. He worked for social justice. The group compared LBJ, JFK, and Jimmy Carter. LBJ was unpopular because of the Vietnam war and there was opposition to the draft including deferments for college kids. JFK may have wanted to drop LBJ as vice-president in the days prior to the assassination. He accomplished a lot, but the war did him in politically.

Our February book is Far Out Man: Tales of Life in the Counterculture, by Eric Utne.

Our next meeting is at 10:00 a.m.on February 12 at the Highland Park Library, 1st floor.