By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

Salena Zito's "Butler: The Untold Story of the Near Assassination of Donald Trump and the Fight for America’s Heartland" is an audacious attempt to chronicle the harrowing events of July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania. Zito, a seasoned journalist with deep roots in the region, positions herself as both an eyewitness and a chronicler of this near-tragic episode.

The book's opening chapters are gripping, immersing readers in the chaotic atmosphere of that fateful day. Zito's firsthand account of the assassination attempt is vivid, capturing the tension and fear that permeated the rally. Her proximity to the incident lends authenticity to her narrative, making the reader feel as though they are standing beside her amidst the turmoil.

However, as the narrative progresses, the book's focus begins to waver. Zito's deep admiration for President Trump becomes increasingly evident, leading to passages that read more like hagiography than objective journalism. Her recounting of multiple phone conversations with Trump, where he refers to her as "my beautiful Salena," borders on the sycophantic. This overt partiality undermines the credibility of her account, making it challenging for readers seeking an unbiased perspective.

Furthermore, while Zito attempts to contextualize the assassination attempt within the broader political landscape of America's heartland, her analysis lacks depth. She touches upon issues like globalization, the opioid crisis, and economic inflation but fails to provide fresh insights or comprehensive examinations of these complex topics. Her critique of mainstream media's "lack of rootedness" is valid but is presented without substantial evidence or nuanced discussion.

The book also suffers from a disjointed structure. Transitions between personal anecdotes, political analysis, and event recounting are often abrupt, leaving the reader disoriented. Additionally, Zito's tendency to insert herself into the narrative detracts from the story's focus, making it more about her experiences than the event itself.

In conclusion, while "Butler" offers a unique perspective on a significant event in recent American history, it is marred by overt bias, superficial analysis, and a lack of structural cohesion. Readers seeking an objective and in-depth examination of the assassination attempt and its implications would be better served looking elsewhere.

Recommendation: Not recommended.

written on: 7/17/2025