Few Are Chosen: A Campaign Memoir

Doug McFarland
Beaver’s Pond Press (2008)
ISBN 9781592982271
Reviewed by Danelle Drake for Reader Views (2/09)


Doug McFarland’s description: “The apt analogy to a campaign for public office is a ride on an amusement park roller coaster.”  In “Few Are Chosen” he gives us a front car seat to see up close what it is like on the campaign trail.  As I sit in our home watching the evening news, I admit I often wonder what it was like during the campaign for those individuals who are so eager to serve.  Why in the world would they subject themselves to such a life?  Heck, I found all of the “politics” involved in small-town PTA a bit too much for me.  I seemed to be missing out on my own children’s activities while I was trying to do well for the entire school.  Honestly, I can do without all of the drama.  It’s amazing how vicious mom’s can be.

“Some months are longer than others in politics.” Doug tells us and through his words we are shown it is true.  Don’t sweat the small stuff is an understatement in the political field.  Everything is a big deal. EVERYTHING!  If you ever imagined what it would be like or think you are up to it, read, read, read.  This book will guide you if you choose to pursue the dream or remind you why you chose not to follow a political path.

We are given the position of “a fly on the wall” as we travel the journey of a Senate candidate.  From the moment he decides to run and the reasons why, through to the bitter end, this heartfelt account in “Few Are Chosen” is more than informative.  Everyone should have the opportunity to follow their dreams.  You don’t want to be sitting on your rocker when you are old and think about what could have been.  The adrenaline fueled campaign was Doug McFarland’s dream come true.

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