James Matthew Sawatzki’s Fixing America: Essays on Domestic and Foreign Policy is a timely and ambitious collection that takes on some of the most pressing issues facing the United States today. Drawing from his long career as a public-school teacher and his commitment to civic engagement, Sawatzki offers sharp, well-researched critiques of policy failures while presenting practical solutions to problems that have long divided the nation. His voice is passionate yet reasoned, making this work accessible not only to academics and students but to everyday citizens seeking clarity in a complex political climate. What makes Fixing America stand out is its ability to connect high-level political analysis with the lived realities of citizens. Sawatzki doesn’t just diagnose problems in abstract terms—he ties policy failures to their human consequences, whether it’s the erosion of public trust, widening economic inequality, or the mishandling of foreign relations. This grounded approach ensures the essays resonate beyond theory, inviting readers to reflect on how government decisions shape their communities and lives. The book covers a broad spectrum of issues, ranging from domestic economic reform and healthcare to international relations and military engagement. Each essay is rooted in a deep concern for justice and fairness, offering solutions that prioritize both pragmatism and compassion. Readers will appreciate Sawatzki’s willingness to challenge entrenched political orthodoxies on both sides of the aisle, refusing to retreat into partisan talking points. Instead, he pursues a vision of governance that is truly citizen-focused. Another strength of Sawatzki’s writing lies in his commitment to bridging divides. Rather than fueling further polarization, Fixing America emphasizes dialogue, compromise, and mutual understanding. His ideas recall the voices of prominent commentators such as Noam Chomsky, Paul Krugman, David Brooks, and Robert Reich, yet his essays carry a distinctly personal authenticity rooted in decades of public service and teaching. This positions him as both an intellectual and a practitioner who understands the urgency of re-engaging citizens in the democratic process. Stylistically, the book is engaging without being overly academic. Sawatzki writes with clarity, conviction, and a teacher’s gift for explanation. Complex issues like trade policy, taxation, or foreign diplomacy are broken down in ways that remain thoughtful yet digestible, making the book a valuable resource for educators, classrooms, and civic discussion groups. The inclusion of concrete solutions, rather than mere critiques, elevates the essays from commentary to a roadmap for reform. Ultimately, Fixing America is not just a critique of policy but a call to action. Sawatzki inspires readers to see themselves as participants in democracy, capable of influencing change rather than passively observing dysfunction. At a time when cynicism often dominates political discourse, his voice is both refreshing and necessary. This is a book that dares to believe America’s challenges can be overcome if citizens are willing to engage, listen, and act with purpose.