Lyle Greenfield's "Uniting the States of America--A Self-Care Plan for a Wounded Nation" is a work of nonfiction and opinion. Incorporating the lessons of history and the ideas and wisdom of many, it is intended as both an educational resource and a call-to-action for citizens concerned about the politically and culturally divided state of our Union. A situation that has raised alarm for the very future of our democracy.

First, the book clearly identifies the causes of what has become a national crisis of belief in and love for our country. How the divisiveness and hostility rampant in our political and cultural discourse, among politicians, citizens, and families came to be. Included in this discussion is the proliferation of media choices--social and otherwise--that have often led us, unwittingly, to choose only the news and commentary sources we already agree with. Which has given us little exposure to--often hostility toward--the perspectives of others.

Far from being "alarmist," however, the author proposes common sense solutions to our problems that require simply the decency and will of our elected leaders, and the active participation of our citizens. To that end, he shares the words and beliefs of Americans from across the country, and many walks of life on what must be done to reinvigorate the American ideal and bring us closer together. An abundance of overlapping ideas make it clear that elected officials and citizens alike need to stop the name-calling, listen better to the views of others, and work in constructive ways to get things done. Our representatives must communicate with ALL whom they represent, not simply the ones who voted for them. And "we the people" need to vote, the most basic way of participating in a democracy.

In the words of Frank Sesno, Professor at GW and author of 'Ask More: The Power of Questions to Open Doors, Uncover Solutions, and Spark Change, ' "With an ear to the ground and an eye on history, Greenfield takes us on a ride through our divisive times. Weaving real-world experience, clear insight, and a wry wit, he has written an original and inspiring guide that will resonate with anyone who cares where our country is going and wants to contribute to its future."

Greenfield has dedicated "Uniting the States of America" to his two-year-old granddaughter, who will be his age in the year 2098. His simple message: we must make sure our remarkable country is united, safe and still proud to be "one nation," for her and for all our our children and grandchildren.