Politics

Obama Family Visits Bookstore for ‘Small Business Saturday’ — So What Book Did He Buy?

Obama Family Visits Bookstore on Small Business Saturday

(The Blaze/AP) Following the craziness of Black Friday, President Barack Obama has pitched in to help small businesses get into the holiday shopping season by visting a local Washington bookstore on “Small Business Saturday.” The president took along his daughters Malia and Sasha, while taking time to say hello to a few fellow customers on the shopping run a few blocks from the White House:

AP notes that the retail industry is encouraging shoppers to patronize mom-and-pop businesses on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. It’s a counterpoint to Black Friday and the sales and special deals offered by department stores and other large retailers.

The Obamas walked out with a selection of books including “The Invention of Hugo Cabret,” ”Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Cabin Fever“ and ”Descent into Chaos: The U.S. and the Disaster in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Central Asia.”

The last selection appears to be on the reading list of President Obama rather than Sasha and Malia. Amazon describes “Descent into Chaos” as a “blistering critique of American policy-a dire warning and an impassioned call to correct these disastrous strategies before these failing states threaten global stability and bring devastation to our world.” The book is by Ashmed Rashid, author of Taliban, an influential and award-winning book published in 2000 that became a key resource following the 9/11 attacks for its focus on the “most extreme and radical of all Islamic organizations” and the group’s power within Afghanistan.

Seems like a practical choice, but if you could, what book would you recommend to the top of Barack Obama’s reading list?

Comments (351)

  • dissentnow
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:55pm

    “End the fed” by Ron Paul

     
    • Holy Shiite
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:59pm

      The Holy Bible, KJV

      Report Post »  
    • Holy Shiite
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 8:48pm

      Know what’s interesting? You believe that all life on Earth originated accidentally and by random chance (because that is sooo scientific), but you won’t accept the possibility of a Supreme Being that is wise and powerful enough to reveal Himself to His creation through the written Word.

      Report Post »  
    • Chappy123
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 8:56pm

      @ SurhanSurhan,

      STFU. Go away. No one here wants you.

      Report Post »  
    • dissentnow
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 8:56pm

      I’ll take “The age of reason” by Thomas Paine over the bible or quran any day.

      Report Post »  
    • KICKILLEGALSOUT
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 9:36pm

      1. The Holy Bible, KJV
      2. Basic Economics, Thomas Sowell
      3. Empire of Debt, Will Bonner and Addison Wiggin
      4. End the Fed, Ron Paul
      5. Illegals: The Unacceptable Cost of America’s Failure to Control Its Borders, Darrell Ankarlo

      Report Post » KICKILLEGALSOUT  
    • Komponist-ZAH
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 10:05pm

      The Law — Frederic Bastiat
      On Liberty — John Stuart Mill
      Omnipotent Government — Ludwig von Mises
      The Road to Serfdom — F.A. Hayek
      Liberal Fascism — Jonah Goldberg
      Broke — Glenn Beck

      …for a start.

      Report Post »  
    • Rational Man
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 10:27pm

      I would add “Common Sense” to the list of Thomas Paine books.
      But NOT over the Holy Bible!! (the original common sense book)

      Report Post » Rational Man  
    • mils
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 10:40pm

      swimming route to kenya personalized for daddy BHO..the BPOS dad..

      a photo op nothing more…the press just laps this crud up.. Those girls never look too happy…

      Report Post »  
    • poverty.sucks
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 10:46pm

      Holy Bible, emphasis in Mosaic Law then Economics for idiots.

      Report Post » poverty.sucks  
    • Miami
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 1:10am

      Any or all of Beck’s last 10 books…..

      Report Post » Miami  
    • Shiroi Raion
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 1:35am

      Original Intent – Barton
      The 5000 Year Leap – Skousen
      The Original Argument – Beck
      Broke – Beck
      A Patriot’s History of the United States – Schweikart and Allen
      Liberty and Tyranny – Levin

      Report Post » Shiroi Raion  
    • independentvoteril
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 1:52am

      “Original Intent”

      Report Post » independentvoteril  
    • Huguenot Descendant
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 4:17am

      “The Idiots Guide to It’s the Economy Stupid!”

      Report Post » Huguenot Descendant  
    • Servant Of YHVH
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 4:35am

      Nope, not the Holy Bible KJV but probably a new koran since he probably has worn out his old one reading it so much. Plus any books with new ideas on how to “Bring down the US into destruction”

      Servant Of YHVH  
    • AmericanPatriot01
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 4:44am

      How about we start with the basics

      1. The Preamble and the Constitution
      2. The importance of the Oath and responsibilities of The Office of the POTUS
      3. American Tyranny: A definition, trial and sentencing guidelines
      4. The Mob Mentality and your future as a victim/target
      5. Surviving on a a deserted Island without a teleprompter

      Report Post » AmericanPatriot01  
    • Thatsitivehadenough
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 5:42am

      Das Capital? Oh, he’s already read that one.

      Hope he didn’t notice that all of his books have been moved to the FICTION section. (I do that whenever I see them in a bookstore).

      Report Post » Thatsitivehadenough  
    • PKama
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 6:19am

      PHOTO OP !!!! These people are so fake.

      Report Post » PKama  
    • SLAPTHELEFT
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 8:41am

      Amy book written by Glenn Beck.

      Report Post » SLAPTHELEFT  
    • demint.disciple
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 8:46am

      Another photo op in my opinion. Where was the baby mama moochelle ?

      Report Post » demint.disciple  
    • turkey13
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 9:34am

      His youngest daughter needs to read Treasure Scope. After she reads it she should get Dad to loosen up and read it.

      Report Post »  
    • lobster
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 9:52am

      How about, “None dare call it Treason”.

      Report Post »  
    • chopey1911
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 9:53am

      Obamas Reading list as follows :

      END THE FED – Ron Paul
      THE CREATURE FROM JEKYLL ISLAND : A SECOND LOOK AT THE FEDERAL RESERVE
      SOCIALISM – Ludwig Von Mises
      LIBERTY DEFINED – Ron Paul

      Hell, anything from Mises and Paul

      Report Post » chopey1911  
    • Sheepdog911
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 10:24am

      The koran or Mao’s little red book.

      Report Post » Sheepdog911  
    • Armed Patriot
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 10:31am

      For the daughters of a millionaire (1%, OWS where are you?) and the president of the US, those girls sure dress nappy.

      Report Post » Armed Patriot  
    • db321
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 10:53am

      “How America Fought Back Against Socialism” – not published yet – expected publish Date sometime in 2012.

      Report Post » db321  
    • Ruler4You
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 10:54am

      “Small business”? He hates small business! This is a reelection pandering trip. Nothing more.

      Report Post » Ruler4You  
    • nobummer12
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 11:57am

      I’m reading that right now.

      Report Post » nobummer12  
    • Psychosis
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 12:16pm

      im not even sure he knows how to read

      Report Post » Psychosis  
    • dogpatch65
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 12:22pm

      That’s easy: Atlas Shugged

      Report Post »  
    • fireyogi
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 12:24pm

      any comic book would work, it’ only fitting the way D.C. is going.

      Report Post »  
    • wildjoker5
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 4:36pm

      The Little Red Hen

      Report Post »  
    • ambrosia
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 8:43pm

      He should be reading Beck’s book on George Washington
      to learn what leadership and love of country is all about….
      let’s face it, it‘s the closest he’ll ever get to the real thing.

      Report Post »  
    • nick7
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 10:42pm

      Does this indicate a BO lack of faith of govt generated intel ?

      But then, some intel genius said his facts came from CNN. How low can you go ?

      Report Post »  
    • Jon Weideman
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 11:23pm

      The Constitution, by James Madison and the Founding Fathers

      Report Post » Jon Weideman  
  • dissentnow
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:53pm

    “Trickle up poverty” by Dr. Savage, perhaps?

    Report Post »  
    • Pouncing Porcupine
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 9:27pm

      “Dr.” Weiner is a narcissitic psuedointellectual hack whose books are boring and his writing style is worse than a grade-schooler’s. I’ve tried reading a couple of them. Painful.

      Report Post » Pouncing Porcupine  
    • dissentnow
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 10:06pm

      I don’t agree with everything that Dr. Savage has to say but he does have two masters and a PHD. Not too bad. Also, “Savage” is his stage name. Its kind of Snarky to run around posting his real name as if no one else but you knows that his real name isn’t savage.

      Report Post »  
    • Deep_Thoughts
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 11:28pm

      an excellent choice, from a prolific author

      Report Post » Deep_Thoughts  
    • pamela kay
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 4:02am

      The Presidencey For Dummies? Brainwashing for Dummies? Or maybe … How to Break the Back of America in 4yrs or less? Most likely another copy Rules for Radicals. He has probably worn out the last copy.

      Report Post » pamela kay  
    • PKama
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 6:23am

      How To Pretend To Pretend To Be A Christian.

      Report Post » PKama  
    • freedomofspeech
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 6:23am

      very good book, has a section on Obama’s leach approach to the white house, he will be able to relive his own past. I recommend any and all books, however I doubt he will have time to read with vacations and golf, basketball, dinner parties. I only see him playing ‘angry birds’ on his ‘blackberry’ tho.

      Report Post »  
    • demint.disciple
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 8:51am

      @DISSENTNOW..Not that I care what anyone calls the president ( or anyone else for that matter) but you complain about using Savages real name but when everyone around here calls obama, Barry, never a peep… If he wants to call Michael Savage, Dr. Weiner what is the problem ? Why should that even bother you ?

      Report Post » demint.disciple  
    • zman173rd
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 11:07am

      I wholeheartedly agree with Pouncing Porcupine. He is a BUFOON and a Pampas A$$. Just into himself. Why do you suppose no other Radio talk host back him and his smart arse comments? He is the person who will be on the corner yelling at everyone (he does that now on radio) to follow him. HE is the chosen one! I used to be able to listen to about 10 mintues before I had to turn the channel, now I just hit the surf button when he appears. An EXTREEMIST in all manner of political opinions. He is an UNREASONABLE Ron Paul, if that can be a comparison.

      Report Post » zman173rd  
    • dissentnow
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 11:32am

      The same thing that said about Michael Savage i can, in turn, say about Glenn Beck. Different Strokes for different folks.

      Report Post »  
    • yankeedoodledandy
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 11:49am

      So Porcupine and the others, how many books have you written? Dr. Savage is a very intelligent man. He represents everything that made America the greatest country ever to have existed on the face of the Earth. I bet you guys think Obama is a “real” intellectual, don’t you now?

      Report Post »  
    • His_Way
      Posted on December 8, 2011 at 2:00am

      Also- Abuse of Power!!!

      Report Post » His_Way  
  • ColdDeadHands
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:53pm

    The Manchurian Candidate……….’nuff said.

    Report Post » ColdDeadHands  
  • lukerw
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:52pm

    “The Road to Surfdom”!

    Report Post » lukerw  
  • JustPeachy
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:50pm

    How about The Bible and “The Pursuit of God,” by AW Tozer?

    Report Post » JustPeachy  
  • SilentReader
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:43pm

    I suggest that the Imposter-in-Chief read the book “The War We Lost” by Constantin Fotitch and reverse the disastrous policy that we’ve had in the former Yugoslavia and give all the land back to the Christian Serbs that was taken from them. Not to mention the hundreds of thousands of Serbs who were horrifically massacred by Tito and his Partisan thugs and the Ustashi and the hundreds of thousands of Serbs who were displaced from their land, and are still being exterminated by NATO enforcer-by-bombing and the treacherous globalist manipulators at the EU and the UN and UNESCO with impunity.

    And then read this article:

    https://americandefenseleague.wordpress.com/2011/11/26/the-betrayal-of-general-mihailovich-the-cambridge-spy-ring-the-change-of-allegiance-from-mihailovich-to-tito/

    After the Traitor-in-Chief has done that I suggest that he turn himself in and that the trial for treason begins and he spends the rest of his mortal life behind bars where he belongs.

    Report Post » SilentReader  
  • Laus Deo
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:36pm

    The 5,000 Year Leap and the US Constitution for Dummies.

    Report Post » Laus Deo  
    • copatriots
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:44pm

      The “5,000 Year Leap” was amazing! Nice choice. I would add, “Samuel Adams: A Life”, “1984” and just about anything by C. S. Lewis.

      Report Post »  
    • Marine 1
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:47pm

      The 5000 Year Leap should be in every school in America instead of the NEA-based propaganda children in the public schools are being subjected to. (I homeschool my daughter.)

      Obamao would never read the 5000 Year Leap ~ He’s a communist and hates America.

      Two other books are a must read ~~

      The Majesty of God’s Law…W. Cleon Skousen

      The Cleansing of America by W. Cleon Skousen

      Both are excellent books.

      Report Post »  
  • geonj
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:36pm

    common sense.

    Report Post » geonj  
  • Conservative Christian
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:30pm

    The Bible
    Being George Washington
    The Constitution

    Report Post » Conservative Christian  
  • Tony
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:30pm

    I suggest a copy of the US Constitution and a book about ethics and the importance of keeping one’s word and oath of office.

    Report Post »  
    • Arizona Don
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 4:19pm

      Very good. That’s what I was going to suggest. But you know “you can lead a horse to water but you can’t make him drink.” That jerk, obama, will some day implode, he is so wrapped up in himself. I’m waiting for that day!

      Report Post » Arizona Don  
  • Janimal
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:29pm

    After the Bible – how about The Federalist Papers.

    Report Post »  
  • LeadNotFollow
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:26pm

    His daughters never look happy. I guess they know that their family is just living a lie. It’s all for show. Their Nicorette Gum chewing Daddy needs re-elected.

    Report Post »  
    • Snowleopard {gallery of cat folks}
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:27pm

      Indeed they seem to understand they are living a lie; and it is hurting them badly across the board. How long will it be, after they reach their majorities, that the children will turn on their parents?

      Report Post » Snowleopard {gallery of cat folks}  
    • 13th Imam
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:32pm

      How about??

      “Retirement for Dummies”

      His daughter can read it to him

      Report Post » 13th Imam  
    • Nobel Reggie
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 8:17pm

      Wouldn’t it be interesting if the two young girls rebel and join the conservative youth movement? Wouldn’t that be a kick to see these two girls become conservatives?

      Report Post »  
    • ConstitunalAmerican
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 8:17pm

      I too agree that Obama‘s daughters did not look very happy when they had their photo’s taken alongside the turkey’s. When with Mrs. Obama, the girls were smiling and seemed happier and more relaxed.
      I’m almost never on the Huffington Post website, but went to see other photo’s of the girls and started reading the articles describing them, Mrs. Obama, and the dog. It was Hilarious!! The Best Laugh in days by the writer and some of the comments left!! It was like going back in time.

      Report Post »  
    • R.A. Bullseye
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 9:36pm

      Maybe he can pick up Barry Goldwater’s The Conscience of a Conservative and learn a thing or two.

       
  • dsind
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:26pm

    “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas”

    Report Post »  
  • copatriots
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:21pm

    Let’s see:

    My first recommendation would be for Obama to read the Bible and as soon as possible. Of all things a father should care about should be his daughter’s eternal salvation. But somehow I just don’t see him reading anything counter to his Alinsky-style, Marxist views. If he picks anything else, it is for the media dog-and-pony show……I would never believe he would actually read it.

    Report Post »  
    • On The Bayou
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:28pm

      Barack Obama And The Enimies Within might be a good start if the girls are not sure why their Dad isn`t really popular among the tax payers of this country.

      Report Post » On The Bayou  
  • concealled9mms
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:21pm

    why a bookstore its obvious to me he comprehend a word he has read example the frickin constitution

    Report Post »  
  • garyM
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:19pm

    He has studied our constitution thoroughly, but for all the wrong reasons!

    Report Post »  
    • CatB
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:24pm

      Exactly .. to dismantle it!

      TEA!

      Report Post »  
  • Censored_by_the_Illuminati
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:18pm

    I don’t suppose you picked up a copy of the bible.

    Report Post »  
  • momrules
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:17pm

    What book would I recommend ?……….the Bible.

    Report Post »  
    • CatB
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:20pm

      My first thought also … how about this one .. since I think he is starting from zero on both the Bible and America….

      The Young American Patriot’s Bible: The Word of God and the Heroes that Shaped America [Hardcover]
      Thomas Nelson (Author)

      TEA!

      Report Post »  
    • CatB
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:22pm

      Then he can work his way up to this one …

      1599 Geneva Bible Patriots Edition [Paperback]
      God (Author), Geneva Translators (Translator)

      Report Post »  
    • momrules
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:33pm

      Thanks CATB, you’ve given me examples of books that I should add to my own reading list.

      Report Post »  
  • garyM
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:17pm

    Virtual Caliphate

    Report Post »  
  • DesertRose1960
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:16pm

    I just saw “Hugo” at the movies, I am so glad the President is buying the book for his daughters. It is one of the most magical films I’ve seen in years. I will be buying the book for my family, too. I will have to check out this book by Rashid, as well. If a man who gets real information from those in the know would chose to read it, it must be interesting.

    Report Post » DesertRose1960  
    • PoohbearA2
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 11:21am

      Hugo has been around for many years. Lovely illustrations. However, if your children are the same age as the first daughters, it may be too young for them. Surprised to see it among their purchases. I hate how hollywood even seems to influence what kids read these days!!

      Report Post » PoohbearA2  
  • DagneyT
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:15pm

    Hmmm, this one’s interesting, “”Descent into Chaos: The U.S. and the Disaster in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Central Asia.”…shouldn’t it have a further addendum to the title, “Due to Obama’s Bungling”?

    Report Post » DagneyT  
    • chips1
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:47pm

      Maybe his dining room table wobbles and he needs to level it out.

      Report Post »  
    • Stoic one
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 8:56pm

      the problems there have been brewing for several decades. Too much meddling by both of the former superpowers; and the continuing of out dated policies by America.

      Report Post » Stoic one  
  • copatriots
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:15pm

    Hmmm……we sure are seeing more pics of the girls lately. Nothing like using your daughters to pander for political gain. Then again, Obama has no shame so I am hardly surprised.

    Report Post »  
    • CatB
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:28pm

      I know we are supposed to “leave the Obama girls alone” unlike say the Palin kids .. but I did notice that the older girl is getting quite thin .. I hope it is just a growth spurt and nothing to do with her mothers “eating” obsessions. I really do .. I would not wish that on anyone.

      Report Post »  
    • copatriots
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:41pm

      I agree, CATB, I wouldn’t wish anything bad on those poor girls. I pity them actually.

      Report Post »  
    • snrub
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 8:38am

      The girls don’t look happy ;I do hope they are not feeling too much stress.

      Report Post »  
  • MisterB
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:15pm

    He should read Demonic, by Ann Coulter.

    Just so that he knows we are on to him.
    He might want to pay attention to what happened to the “community organizers” of that revolution, by the way.

    Report Post » MisterB  
    • CatB
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:30pm

      That would be a good one also!

      Report Post »  
    • Dalady
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 10:29pm

      My first thought also and would add Patriots Guide to American History by Larry Schweikart.

       
  • Chappy123
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:14pm

    Is it just me, or do those girls seem unhappy?

    Report Post »  
    • Janimal
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:28pm

      If that Thing was your father and Moochelle was your mother – wouldn’t you be?

      Report Post »  
    • imsteph
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:29pm

      tired of being used as props and shields…..

      Report Post » imsteph  
    • Chappy123
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 9:02pm

      Those kids look at him like he is a stranger.

      Report Post »  
    • Pbizzel
      Posted on November 27, 2011 at 5:40pm

      I think it is fair to say he has not seen his kids for more than a few hours each week since being elected. From Chris Matthews comments about the first family‘s happiness to the looks on their faces and the President’s graying hair….no matter what you think of his politics, it is so obvious that they were not ready for this job. He was thrust into a Senate position from his community organizing. Heck, he did not even finish that term. He was what I call a puppet candidate, put up by the left to look and sound good. His election will go down in history as what not do when your country needs real change. He is the worst president in the history of our country. I don’t hate the man or his family…he may actually be someone I could sit down with and watch a game…but at the end of the day, his ideology is strangling the country.God help us all if he is reelected.

      Report Post » Pbizzel  
  • DagneyT
    Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:11pm

    I have a pocket Constitution I’ll send him!

    Report Post » DagneyT  
    • CatB
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:23pm

      I think many in Congress could use a copy also .. I have mine .. perhaps we should “blanket” the Capital with them!

      TEA!

      Report Post »  
    • DesertRose1960
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:29pm

      Why don’t you keep it and read it again. Many House and Senate offices give them out to visitors, and some Government agency offices give them to their new employees when they take the oath of office. I’m sure the White House has them available, too.

      Report Post » DesertRose1960  
    • CatB
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 7:47pm

      @D.R. .. I guess it doesn’t mean that they have read them .. or follow them. Maybe if we got them the audio version. They don’t seem to be much for reading .. things like Obamacare “we have to pass the bill to know what’s in it” Pelosi.

      Report Post »  
    • Komponist-ZAH
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 10:13pm

      CATB—

      Get it on audio and play it over loudspeakers in the Capitol and White House 24/7.

      Report Post »  
    • NoRoomForSocialismHere
      Posted on November 26, 2011 at 10:50pm

      Thats good but I would also add:
      David Bartons books;
      Original Intent
      The American Patriots Bible,
      and anything to do with the Protestant Christians roots of AMERICA

      Report Post »  

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