As somewhat of a pundit and a native Minnesotan I had been waiting for ANY analysis of Ventura's victory beyond our abysmal newspapers' and Ventura's own "We shocked the world." After having just begun this remarkable book I wondered why I had no other works by Mr. Lentz in my library. This smart, crisp analysis is extraordinary in both its breadth and depth. Simply page through the bibliography and footnotes and you will understand what I mean. This would be a perfect addition to any class (or individual) interested in the rising third party movements in our country, and will pleasantly surprise both the novice and the seasoned pundit with it's readability.

Having been a fan of Lentz for years, I feel that this book is the pinnacle of his writing achievements to date. As another member of the "Jacob Lentz Official Fan Club" put it, "This book will hurt your brain and make you weep". Lentz has established himself as one of the pre-eminent American authors of the mid-late 1990's era and hopefully, will continue to impress the American public with his eloquent verbosity. Bravo.

This is a great book. Read it and weep over the beauty of the prose, the breadth of the insight, and the joy of being a human alive and reading.

Even if you don't vote, hate wrestling and couldn't care less if Minnesota was part of the United States or not, you'd probably dig this book. It's an engaging read, following Ventura's phenomenal capture of the highest political office in his state from BEFORE day one, and it's filled with anecdotes, lively characters and flashes of endearing humanity. Entertaining enough for even conspiracy theorists. If Ventura didn't exist, the media would have to invent him, he's so engaging, which makes the book soar.

Tom, I hope you keep track of these things! Thought the book was interesting.

In this fascinating little book, Minnesota governor Jesse Ventura, sets out to explain the American system of government, warts and all, to the young reader. He starts out with an interesting autobiography, focusing mainly on his political career, and then he launches into an examination of how our system works. Along the way, the reader is treated to many colorful pictures and highly informative sidebars.

Governor Ventura is widely known for his outspokenness, and this book contains quite a few of his opinions. But, in spite of that (or perhaps because of that), this is a great book, a passionate look at American government. If you are looking for an interesting introduction to the American form of government, then I highly recommend this book to you.

As the sub-title of "Jesse Ventura Tells It Like It Is," this is a book in which "America's Most Outspoken Governor Speaks out About Government." Now, at first look this title might suggest that Ventura is going to engage in his patented rants about what is wrong with the government. But the book is actually more of a primer about government for young readers, albeit based on Ventura's unique personal experiences in and out of office.

Co-written with journalist and children's author Heron Marquez, this book certainly plays on Ventura's notoriety. The book's introduction starts with a picture of Jesse "The Body" Ventura in action in the wrestling ring and campaigning for governor in jeans, a Timberwolves jacket, and baseball cap. Ventura's explanation for his surprising gubernatorial victory is simple: he had a key issue (returning Minnesota's $4 billion tax surplus to the taxpayers), a pair of "boring" opponents, and an electorate looking for alternatives to the Republicans and Democrats. He also inspired a lot of people to register and vote who had given up on politics or never gotten excited in the first place.

But the main part of this book does not look at Ventura's time in office, but rather at the government itself. In doing so, Ventura's political philosophy comes through: (1) What is Government? traces the development of the concept from family groups forming tribes to the complicated systems that exist today. Clearly Ventura favors the informal governments humans first created to fulfill these needs over the bureaucratic entities that exist today. (2) Freedom and the Constitution tells the story of how the Founding Fathers came to write the Constitution, which is based on the simple idea of freedom, and the Bill of Rights, emphasizing that the latter protects people from too much government. Sidebars in this chapter talking about how the Constitution can be Changed and some of Ventura's dealings with other countries as governor. (3) The Many Levels of Government uses the metaphor of the pyramid to explain how government works on the local, state and federal level. Ventura looks at September 11th and floods as examples of how the different levels of government function in an emergency. (4) Voting and Election Campaigns is the most autobiographical of these chapters, since Ventura talks about his own experiences running for governor and provides some of his most telling critiques of the current system (e.g., "I'll be you dollars to doughnuts, five or every six days are spent on political fund-raising. But if the candidates are raising money, they aren't talking issues"). (5) Cutting up the Pie talks about how we are taxed and what the government does with the money. A side bar allows Ventura to attack Special-Interest Groups, who he believes "control our government today, point-blank, no doubt about it." Consequently, Ventura emphasizes that his independence from such groups allowed him to "govern with no strings attached." (6) What Can Kids Do? elicits a simple answer from Ventura: "Keep them involved."

That last bit is what tips the scales for me with this book, which is certainly not the most informative book on American Government young readers can find. But there is a passion about the subject that Ventura brings and an insistence that people have beliefs and be able to justify them that makes this book, on balance, a good thing. We all know that the percentage of Americans who vote has been in a constant state of decline for decades and we can all tick off on our fingers the reasons why people have become apathetic and disgusted by politics and politicians. If there was one thing Ventura did in his two campaigns, for mayor of St. Louis Park and governor of Minnesota, it was drive up voter participation, and if at the end of his term of office he puts out a book like this get kids interested in politics, then I am all for it. I also appreciate the idea that kids will read this book long before they are eligible to vote.

The back of the book contains some of Ventura's pet political ideas, such as the unicameral legislature, discarding laws that are no longer useful, and reforming property taxes. There is also a list for further reading and useful web sites. My guess is that as time goes by readers will forget the specifics of Ventura's positions, but what they will remember is his passionate insistence that politicians listen to the voice of the people. It might be an elementary lesson, but when you consider the high dropout rate in American politics, it is a lesson worth repeating. We will have to see if Ventura's political legacy endures after he leaves office or if he becomes a political footnote.

Jesse Ventura is one of the most influential, interesting, and eccentric people in the United States today, and this autobiography is a clear cross-section of his views on wrestling, the Navy SEALs, politics, and life in general. Governor Ventura states his goal in writing this book is to give his reader a straight-shooting dose of the honest facts, and he does that with style - his own style. "I Ain't Got Time to Bleed" reads just like Ventura speaks, if you've ever seen him on TV, and gives a particularly good insight into current U.S. politics from the mind of one of America's most outspoken and influential critics. Ventura praises the American system, claiming that his rise to the top in Minnesota is evidence that the American dream is alive and well. But he also criticizes the career politicians, who he claims run our country today. He passionately calls for more Americans making their voice heard at the polls to return the system to its ideal. In this book, Ventura achieves what he set out to do: take a close look at America itself through the eyes of a private citizen who has become a national public figure and tell the world what he sees.

Go Jesse! The life and times of America's toughest and most honest politicians. (Hell, quite possibly in the entire world!). Jesse Ventura lays it all down, the days of youthful excess and fast times; his experiences as a Navy SEAL; his time spent as a professional (and one of the most memorable) wrestler (or wrastler as some people keep saying); and finally he takes us to Minnesota where he challenges, defeats and ultimately disbands the Good Old Boy syndicate living high on the hog off the peoples' ignorance and indifference. Told through tape recorder? That's great! I'll look for an audiobook version too! Jesse leaps off each page as himself and not some puff-piece written to further his political career or win over borderline voters. Jesse speaks and he speaks in his own voice and from his heart without holding anything back. As a fan of Jesse's policies and his fresh attitude and outlook to politics, this book only strengthens my admirations for him by showing and proving that he is everything he says he is and isn;t full of a single drop of the loads of B.S. that spoil the once clean air surrounding our governmental offices, both federal and state.

Jesse "the body, the mouth, the mind, the Gov." Ventura. When Jesse Ventura came upon the political scene, I have to admit that his candor, honesty and his underdog victory awed me. In a way I truly believe that Jesse does represent all of us. Not just within the Democrat and Republican ranks, but every single American who is disenfranchised by the truth that is self-evident in the corruption in our Congress, our White House and our Supreme Court/Judiciary System. "I Ain't Got Time to Bleed" is the story of every average American youth to a certain degree, for I could take this complete book and with a few changes in story lines, places and overall path in life, fill in the blanks to tell my life's history also. As could many of us out here in America. That is the special quality Jesse Ventura has, he is a normal human being and American.

I lost a little of the mystic when he (I believe) unfairly attacked Pat Buchanan who was doing nothing more than Jesse himself did, which was speak his mind. Then there was the truly ignorance attack on Religion.

I was afraid Jesse had already been corrupted. And I believe he has been, to a certain extent, for backing someone like Donald Trump and ignoring the popularity of Buchanan cannot be called an intelligent move. He could work with Pat to make the Reform Party a true, unstopable force for good. That definitely makes me question Jesse's ability to stay true to his convictions.

But after reading the book, pondering the man, and the many between the lines aspects of Mr. Ventura, I have come to realize Jesse just makes some dumb choices and says some dumb things, just like the rest of us. Which just makes him all that more real and vital to reforming the system. And a few old Marine Corps saying, explain the mistakes..."open mouth insert foot" or "he engaged his mouth before his brain housing group".

And his book clearly points out the subtle destructive manipulation of our system of government. Which has resulted after decades of moving away from what was an America of "We the People"...giving power to the government. Who then made laws, on our behalf, which were then to be carried out and supported by the Supreme Courts and lesser bodies without manipulation, changes or biased socialist views. It was changed into something totally different, deviant and illegitimate.

Instead we have the courts usurping the peoples vote, the governments laws, common sense and then directing actions, misinterpreting the Constitution or declaring the peoples will unconstitutional so that they become the supreme leaders of America. In effect putting nine people who have never been elected into a position of absolute power.

Which gives rise to the mentality that all people look to the courts, though idiotic law suits and appealing everything the voters desire, instead of the representatives they elect for redress of their grievances. Totally un-American and in direct contradiction to our Constitution. These nine people rather than enforce the peoples will are dictating what their will should and will be. That is worse than socialism, it is communisim by the Judiciary.

On top of that add a corrupted system of lifelong politicians and the American people do need to wake up as Jesse says and get involved once again to save our Republic and their personl vote and influence.

Jesse Ventura in his down home subtle ways, voices these deep seated concerns of all Americans, and very eloquently makes his book an easy and quick read for anyone, interested in finding out what real Americans are thinking. After reading the "Politics of Bad Faith" by David Horowitz which was very good. Jesses style in his book was a breath of fresh air for easy reading.

The establishment, which includes politicians, the courts, the education system, and the media, as Jesse so readily points out are completely out of touch with reality and mainstream America.

They have fallen victim like many others into believing that grassroots America is actually what the producers in Hollywood depict it as being. Such simple mindedness in those who think they are so wise is scary to say the least. And what Jesse clearly tells us is "Professing themselves to be...wise they became fools." That is not just a Bible quote, it is a fact.

I hope Jesse can endure and fight the temptation to become just another politician. He says he will not likely run for President. I think it would be a great mistake for him to do so. Oh, not because he couldn't win, I have no doubt he could. But it would turn him into the very thing he has taught us not to be, or not to try to be, a career politician.

No, the best thing Jesse could do for the Reform Party, is to get reelected and do a fabulous job as Governor, go home and do all kinds of interviews and speaking engagements, about keeping his legacy alive in other cities and other states around the country. The freedom of this would make him a true force to be reckoned with.

This is a book for all Americans to read, re-read, consider and respect.

Minnesota Governor Janos' (Jesse Ventura's) first book "I Ain't
Got Time To Bleed" was both a fascinating autobiography and a
thoughtful political statement. In his second book, Governor Janos
describes his experiences as Governor. He also discusses problems
facing Minnesota and the United States, and his decision to leave the
National Reform Party.

Governor Janos' won his Governorship as the
Reform Party candidate, the highest electoral victory won by that
political party. Governor Janos' victory resembled that of former
President Jimmy Carter, an outsider who won upon a platform of
reforming the Federal bureaucracy. President Carter had limited
success reforming the Federal bureaucracy, and he had difficulty with
an unfamiliar national news media.

Governor Janos describes how he
attracted the best people from the Democratic, Republican, and Reform
parties to work in his Administration. His strong tripartisan
Administration has permitted Governor Ventura to reduce state debt by
"cutting the pork" from Minnesota spending. This spending
reduction makes him unpopular with some Minnesota legislators and
their allies in the news media.

In nearly half of this book the
Governor assumes a new role: educator. Governor Janos feels that the
issues affecting Minnesota and the United States are not discussed
openly and fairly. He discusses these issues plainly and he states
his opinions clearly. This is a *very* strong position.

I do not
agree with all of Governor Janos' positions. On page 163, Governor
Janos proposes having armed personnel working undercover in schools to
prevent events such as the shootings in Columbine Colorado. I
disagree with Governor Janos because I believe that an armed person's
first responsibility is to control his firearm. Armed personnel
wearing ankle holsters will get jostled daily, and gossipy students
will observe that these individuals are armed. *If* armed individuals
are required in schools, I believe that high visibility, uniformed
police officers should bear this responsibility. I also believe that
these officers should be rotated periodically back to regular duty,
both to keep them fresh and also to continue their professional
advancement.

On page 157 Governor Janos states "Drug addiction
is a consenual crime, it's a 'crime against oneself.", and on
page 158 Governor Janos proposes decriminalizing drug abuse. I do
*not* believe that drug abuse is merely a "crime against
oneself". Some recreational drugs (e.g., "speed")
cause violent or paranoid behaviour. Also, drug abuse financially
victimizes society by wasting money that could be used to feed,
clothe, house, and educate. I believe that the penalties for drug use
*should* be re-examined, but I also believe that the Government should
continue vigorously prosecuting large volume drug
suppliers.

Governor Janos is an interesting man. He writes clearly
and candidly, he discusses a wide range of important topics, and he
makes you think. I recommend this book.

Political movements usually come from unusual places. I think it would be fair to say that we have not seen everything that Gov. Jesse Ventura has to offer to the shakeup of the established political machines of the Democrats and the Republicans.

I have NOT yet read "I Ain't Got Time to Bleed" but I plan to go back to read it after I finished this book I received as a gift. I am not sure what he covers in the previous edition to the "Complete Guide to 'Body' Politics" as I will call it, that he did not cover in the 2nd volume. But I can guess. In this edition Ventura points out more of what his experiences as the chief executive of the state of Minnesota. There are several examples of political tugs-of-war he has with the Twin Cities media, the legislature, and other political organizations in that state. Many of these are boring simply becuase I am not from Minnesota--can I relate?. Any of these examples can give you an idea of the local issues in your own state I am sure. He makes a great case for the goal of a unicameral legislature, instead of the clunky, inefficient bicameral that most states have. As well as for the the streamlining of gov't so that it better serves that people by staying out of the way--and leaving many social programs to private organizations better equipped to handle those problems.

Most of this book reads like a series of pro-wrestling promos. IN case you are unfamiliar with wrestling, a "promo" are those angry, blood-pumping, violent taunts and speeches that most pro-wrestlers give with some schmuck of a "reporter" holding a mic to their face and the wrestler pointing to the camera looking menacing ("Hulk Hogan!? You Prima-Donna! ON Saturday Night's Event, I am going to tear you UP! I am going to chew you up and spit your pulp on the mat!"). Most effective promos are only a minute or two long. Most of the book is sectioned off into subjects--but the segments are so short that I was left for wanted Mr. Vetura to elaborate more on his opinion or his plans for improvement.

Jesse Ventura was the original "Straight Talk Express" before last year's John McCain named his bus. A book like this does get to the point and doesn't try to confuse the reader with stats and figures. It's safe to say that part of this is what makes his persona so popular in the political field. He's Ross Perot, except not quite so flakey. His critics that try and dismiss him as a "muscle-head" or someone that is an "embarassment" to public office are missing the point to everyday voter. In Ventura's opinion, lawyers are an embarassment to public office. People are drawn to Ventura simply becuase people know he will work for everyone--not just those that voted for him, and not becuase some focus group or poll told him he should. He does what he feels and thinks is the right thing. If it turns out wrong, he is smart enough to try again. Simple as that.

Fifty years ago the same critics would dismiss a president by the name of Truman for many of the same criticisms as they give Ventura. I don't know if Ventura will ever run for president, but his influence may inspire the everyday man or woman to get involved in politics and overcome the established corporate, popularity-contest we have today. Where the winner is the one who can raise the most funds--legally or illegally. Is that the way to run a country? Some day a real Party revolution will occur (not like in 1994) and Ventura's influence will be all over it.

Can an explosive bombastic professional wrestler navigate the undercurrents of the political arena of action? Yes indeed! says author Jesse Ventura not to be confused with that other Ventura- you know-- "Ace Ventura- Pet Detective" aka Jim Carrey. The book is an intensive look into the brave new world of Governor elect Jesse Ventura. He shares his experiences, opinions and positions on complex issues in a straight forward manner; no nonsense, no games. Readers will agree or not, with his candid perspectives on the intrusive media and "spineless" politicians. He makes no bones about the need for all of us to be more alert, knowledgeable and involved in the political process. He has the astuteness of an Adlai Stevenson with a lot more charisma. He doesn't mince words. He is the chief administrator, at least until the next election. For now, he seems to have made the transition from entertainer to politician just fine; and after reading the book, it's fairly clear that he does not stand alone.

Why in the world would anyone want to spend a nickel on this book. My advice, make a charitable contribution and feel good that your money is going to someone who appreciates it.

Although I don't like the fact that Gov. Ventura did not authorize this book. It is great because the person, who created the quotes in the first place is pure philsophical excellence.

As a poli-sci & pop culture buff, I am appalled at this book's atrocious writing. An occasional reader of whiny Salon.com, I'm familiar with the political banalities that Tapper torments Salon's readers with, but didn't expect it would be THIS bad. Let me tell you, it was.

Tapper managed to turn the 'Body' from a riveting and controversial political personality and turn him into smarmy National Enquirer caricature. If you want to see and hear Jesse done right, I suggest you look anywhere (Chris Matthews/Hardball for starters) than this awful book.

I read this book to get an idea of what the masses are learning about Jesse Ventura. I'm a political science buff in Minnesota and can tell you that this book is a shallow portrayal of our surprisingly complex governor. Poorly written, poorly researched, this book was quickly written for distribution in grocery stores ect. This is not a serious or insightful biography, and should be avoided.

This is an excellent read. Mr. Tapper has done a masterful job of piecing together an intriguing story about one of the most fascinating political characters of our day. Unlike Mr. Ventura's self promoting autobiography, this book provides an unbiased and refreshing view at the life and times of Mr. Ventura. I would highly recommend this book to all.