Style Versus Substance: Boston, Kevin White, and the Politics of Illusion

by George V. Higgins

This analysis and warning about the dangerous mix of politics and media manipulation examines the sixteen-year mayoral term of Boston's Kevin White in terms of the critical problems plaguing modern cities and government

Genres: Politics

250 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 1984

About the author

George Vincent Higgins was a United States author, lawyer, newspaper columnist, and college professor. He is best known for his bestselling crime novels.

Reviews

[False · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book about politics (federal and city (Boston,) and the years of Mayor Kevin White (1967-1983). Lots of statistics that proved fascinated in terms of how distinct sections of the city had changed (and we can assume even moreso now.)The book was published in 1984. Since I was working in federal politics myself during many of those years, I read with interest. It can be a very insular world, and I agreed with much of what he said: the sheer stupidity you must possess to even succeed in politics, how many sections of the city (and Massachusetts) loathed Ted Kennedy. Since his death, you never hear him mentioned anymore in terms of quoting from "Senator Statesman." I was interested in learning about former Congressman Barney Frank's beginnings. I hadn't forgotten the busing issues in Boston which were nuclear compared to some areas. Also the high level of cronyism. Intelligently written. Heartfelt in terms of his own love of the place, with many great quotes heading each chapter. Given how much time has passed, and how many of the people are gone (Kennedy, Tip O'Neill, etc.) it's amazing how on target Higgins is with his assessments.

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A "must read" for Bostonians who lived through the White era. A real eye-opener for me.