Gov. Scott Walker’s memoir “Unintimidated” hit shelves two weeks ago. Below are several books that the governor did not write, but could have in an alternate reality.
1. Intimidated. Title of a rough draft of the memoir later published as “Unintimidated.” An editor convinced Walker to change the title.
2. Kill Deer Like a Governor in Six Easy Steps. Equal parts self-help advice from Walker and field guide for the avid buck hunter, this book features color photos of Walker gutting and cleaning impressive deer. Includes an instructional video.
3. Campaigning Made Easy. “Managing an gubernatorial campaign isn’t hard,” Walker writes, adding “just have your employees do everything.” He goes on to urge caution, emphasizing the need for secret email accounts.
4. Who Needs Higher Education? I didn’t. Leading off with the reflection “I always thought college was for nerds,” Walker discusses the value or lack therof of college. Don’t miss his remorseless account of slashing the University of Wisconsin System’s budget.
5. Leaves of Grass. Walker did not write this book. Actually, it is a book of poetry written by Walt Whitman in 1855.
6. Totally Not Recalled. Walker’s autobiographical account of the 2011 recall elections, published under a title playing off of the 1990s blockbuster starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. The highlight has to be the chapter, “Bring it on.”
7. Solidarity is for the Weak. A meticulous account of the abolishment of collective bargaining and the ensuing protests, this manifesto culminates in an extensive discussion of Walker’s philosophical disagreement with unionized labor.
8. Balancing State Budgets for Dummies. A do-it-yourself style introduction to fiscal policy for the conservative state politicians. Draws on the governor’s experiences in Wisconsin and comes in an attractive yellow and black paperback.