The Federalist Society

April 15, 2013

This is the story of how a group founded by conservative law students at the University of Chicago grew into a powerful national movement that has decisively shifted American courts and politics to the right. Avery (law, Suffolk Univ., Boston) and McLaughlin, a partner in the Boston law firm Nixon Peabody, explore the history of the Federalist Society and its role in the modern conservative movement while explaining the guiding principles and goals of the group. The beginning of the book explores how the Federalist Society helped to shape the Reagan era and came to even greater prominence in the George W. Bush White House as its members took seats on the federal courts and positions in the Justice Department. Each of the next chapters discusses the society's approach to issues such as property rights, affirmative action, gender equality, gay rights, and the U.S. role in international affairs. VERDICT The authors write in plain language and explain the legal terms they use for a lay audience. However, the subject is complex and requires some explanation. Students and serious readers interested in the conservative movement will want to read; casual readers will want something else.--Becky Kennedy, Atlanta-Fulton P.L.

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