The Overton Window by Glenn Beck
The Overton Window is a suspense thriller written by political news commentator and FOX News channel host, Glenn Beck. Beck hosts several talk programs on FOX News, and also on the radio. Most of his talk programs are focused on issues of America, and how the people need to deal with the problems of being an American. This novel is not far from that line, as it embodies the Overton window concept in political theory. According to this concept, at a given time there is range of policies regarding an issue that are considered acceptable. Likewise, there are other policies that make the politicians seem out of line, or far from mainstream. However, if the time and the place change, so do the policies that are regarded as out of line.
The plot of the novel follows a public relations officer by the name of Noah Gardner. He is not at all interested in politics, or thinks it is not worthy of his interest. However, he meets up with a woman by the name of Molly Ross. She is a political buff, and has ideas about what America is, stands for and should stand for. She tells Noah that America is soon to be different than what they are aware of. At first, he feels that all the talk is just a view of conspiracy theory. However, an unexpected attack on America changes his perception about politics. Everyone is confused, and nobody knows what to do or except. Noah, on the other hand, is all ready to find out about the plan and bring out the conspirators in the open. This, he has to do, to save his basic rights, as well as the woman he is in love with.
This is where you need to read The Overton Window to know, if he succeeds in his plan. This book received mixed reactions as soon as it was published in June, 2010. Many people think that the novel is a good thriller, and also a controversial novel. Many of the New York Bestsellers authors reviewed the novel, as being one of the best political thrillers of the year. On the other hand, reviewers writing for top magazines and newspapers had advices to give to Beck. Many of them felt that the novel did not add to the value of thriller novels, and it is only a conservative rant of Beck’s.
This novel is a thriller, but it also portrays subjective view of the author on political issues. Therefore, people, who do not buy in Glen Beck’s side of the story in his talk programs, are less likely to be impressed by the novel. However, if you dismiss his political opinions and just want to enjoy the thriller, then this may turn out to be a gripping read.