Anti-Imperialist Writings, by Mark Twain (audio book). This ‘book’ is a collection of articles, letters, and essays by Mr Twain, several of them quite pointed and critical of various subjects. The four that stand out for me are: 1) Training That Pays, a short speech about patriotism and the need for criticism rather than blanket acceptance of national actions; 2) To My Missionary Critics, a harsh critique of American missionaries who exacted retribution on the Chinese during the Boxer Rebellion; 3) A Defense of General Funston, a condemnation of what Twain believed were deceitful and dishonorable tactics by the General during the Philippine-American war (1899-1902); and 3) a long heavily sarcastic harangue against King Leopold II of Belgium and his ruthless, genocidal, and immoral rule over the Congo. Twain’s humor was often quite charming and witty, but he could use it to great effect when tackling political subjects he felt worthy of scathing criticism or denunciation. This is the latter. He is the premier commentator on life in America and the world: insightful, incisive, and wickedly funny. ( )