My Bad

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY MAY 1, 2006

According to authors Slansky and Sorkin, one of the reasons American culture is in decline is that "any misdeed, no matter how egregious, can now be immediately negated by a bleat of casual contrition." In this initially amusing and eventually dispiriting volume, they present apologies from luminaries along with brief explanations of the behavior that prompted the reprinted repentances. Many of these mea culpas, particularly those from loose-lipped politicians, tend to blur together after a few pages. But there are standouts, including the Lexington Herald-Leader's recent, self-explanatory apology, "It has come to the editor's attention that the paper neglected to cover the civil rights movement. We regret the omission," as well as frequent apologizer Ted Turner's admission, "At one time or another, I've offended almost every group. I'm sure I'll be apologizing again." Senator Trent Lott boasts six apologies-each more absurd than the previous-for his questionable commentary on racism and his voting record. Closing with a lengthy apology from former president Bill Clinton about his conduct during the Monica Lewinsky affair is a nice touch, and though the format doesn't lend itself to a sit-down read, the brief capsules make for ideal spot reading.