Shooting Star illustrates the point that one person can, if given too much power, ruin the lives of many and do untold damage to the country. Tom Wicker’s book is a vital documentation of a horrifying time in history from which we must learn, so as not to repeat the injustices perpetrated against the innocents falsely accused. The parallels to the Salem witch trials are shocking and must not be ignored.

There is a modicum of justice: McCarthy’s reign of terror was brief and resulted in his downfall. Shooting Star gives a glimpse into the dark recesses of the mind of the man who claimed there were “205 members of the Communist Party in the State Department” with absolutely no proof.

For those who want a peek into the dark time of Communists under every bed, this book is a must-buy.