We've been trying to find what sums up Thom Hartmann as we've come to know him.

And we've decided that it is that his interest, curiosity and passion are contagious, particularly when it comes to ideas and politics.

Among the progressive talk show hosts, he's become acknowledged as "the professor" of the airwaves, but one that is eminently engaging and accessible. Listening to his boundless interest in his guests and callers and to his vast knowledge about obscure issues isn't intimidating; it's downright invigorating.

How Thom finds the time to write books too -- and he's written a lot of them too, all solid -- is beyond us. And he even pens monthly reviews for BuzzFlash! He just e-mailed us that his upcoming one will be on "A Magnificent Catastrophe: The Tumultuous Election of 1800, America's First Presidential Campaign " by Edward J. Larson

Okay, that's enough praise.

His latest book is about what has come to be called "messaging," as in how does the right wing do it so well and the progressives do it so poorly. Although, we are getting better at it, except for the dolts on Capitol Hill who were intimidated by Bush White House talking points, damn the reality.

We've interviewed Thom on more than one occasion, and he's a master at understanding how political communication works.

That's what his new book is about, and it offers strategies for progressives to start going on the offensive in the messaging wars.

This is a practical guide, clearly written and of particular value to all those people who write BuzzFlash and ask: "How do I respond to my right wing friend when he/she says...?" You can fill in the blank.

Get a copy of "Cracking the Code: How to Win Hearts, Change Minds, and Restore America's Original Vision," and start mastering the art of political persuasion.

"Thom Hartmann's book is an excellent primer in communication techniques. But unlike other message makers, Hartmann has genuine substance. He is restoring the radical populist tradition to the mainstream of our culture. Much of what we revere as Americans, Hartmann believes, was created by radicals who simply were ahead of their time."

-- Tom Hayden