Book Description

Part One Of Two Parts

It is hard to imagine anything new about Churchill. But in this life of the young lion, William Manchester brings us fresh encounters and anecdotes. Alive with examples of Churchill's early powers, THE LAST LION entertains and instructs.

"Manchester is not only master of detail, but also of `the big picture.'...I daresay most Americans reading THE LAST LION will relish it immensely." (National Review) ... Read more

Reviews (48)

Volume 1 of the life of Winston Spencer Churchill
"The Last Lion: Visions of Glory, 1874-1932," is the first of William Manchester's projected three-volume biography of Winston Spencer Churchill. I found it a superbly crafted, supremely well researched account of the first 58 years of the life of the 20th century's greatest statesman. With wit and candor, Manchester chronicles Churchill from his earliest days as the neglected and troublesome first child of Lord Randolph Churchill and his American-born wife, Jennie, to his entry into the political "wilderness" over home rule in India in 1932. Manchester's portrait of his subject is balanced and objective; we see Churchill at his finest: a courageous (almost to the point of foolhardiness) army officer, and later a gifted Member of Parliament who became one of the youngest Cabinet ministers in British history. We also see him at his worst: a Cabinet minister with appalling political judgment at times, quick to meddle in other ministers' affairs while neglecting his own, and with an uncanny ability to alienate not only his political foes, but almost all his political allies as well.

In addition to a wonderfully written chronology of Churchill's life, Manchester provides an overview of the times in which Churchill lived. I was fascinated by the author's account of Victorian England -- its culture, its mores, and its view of itself in the world. The sections which describe Churchill's times make highly entertaining and absorbing reading by themselves.

"The Last Lion: Visions of Glory, 1874-1932," clearly shows why William Manchester is one of the pre-eminent biographers at work today. The book is written with obviously meticulous scholarship, insightful analysis, and crisp, sparkling prose; I have yet to find a better account of Churchill's life. Now, if only Mr. Manchester would give us that third volume . . .

Churchill Saves the World
Having read Manchester's incomparable biography of Winston Churchill, one is struck by the supernatural, almost superhuman aspect of his subject. Churchill is, in my humble opinion, one of the greatest politicians of the twentieth century -- or as Manchester says, The greatest nineteenth century politician who remained to challenge his sinister twentieth century counterparts.

This first novel of his early years show the struggle, his toil, his stolen successes, his vision ignored or supplanted by lesser men. Reviewing the life and decisions of Churchill reveal a striking fact -- he was almost never wrong. A casual reader might attribute this to "common sense", but those who drink history more deeply are less likely to accept such a simple view. To one living at the time, Hitler had many facets of his leadership that would attract many modern readers -- he was the first leader of a major nation to embrace enviornmentalist policies, the first to embrace technological development as a means to improving national utility, and most importantly the only leader to move his nation out of the great depression. It is a measure of Churchill's greatness that he saw through all of these things, and was the only - literally the only - major political figure in the world to strongly and resolutely attack the emergence of the German National Socialist Movement before, during, and after its rise to power. Prior to reading Manchester's bio, I had assumed that Churchill was in some way right for the wrong reasons, as so often occurs in history, and his subsequent election as Prime Minister was the result of his record, regardless of his reasons. I was wrong.

Manchester shows us that Churchill got it almost exactly right: conservative enough to defend his principles, yet liberal enough to innovate and excel at innovation throughout his carreer. Unshakably rooted in his beliefs, and sincerely willing to sacrifice his self interest to them (a trait which, I confess, I have seen no more than once or twice in historical oand modern individuals), he simultaneously was able to marry this rocklike character with an amazing ability to innovate: technologically, strategically, and politically. Manchester does him service by this excellent bio, to which my only question is, when is the last installment due

The Man of the Century
Manchester's work is extraordinary and a journey into the making of a great leader of the world that was the 20th century.

Churchill was a man of vision and he was molded in his early years. Manchester makes a case for his growth coming in the Boar War period.

There is a beginning of greatness. Manchester introduces us to the world that formed this great man.

Understand the most Remarkable Man of the 20th Century
This is an excellent book on the first half of the life of a truly exceptional man. Mr Manchester's book deals with Winston's early life and his rise to power and fame. I particularly liked the vignettes about life at the turn of the century; the social situation, the class struggle, the morals of the upper and the working classes.

Just reading it makes you feel somehow inadequate against the intellectual brilliance, courage and sheer energy of the subject.

It would have merited a full five star rating but for two faults. It should have been shorter. It as if every single little titbit of information had to be written out in full, rather than filtered through the critical intellect that Mr Manchester undoubtedly possesses. Instead, he quotes too many letters, reports and speeches in full when his job as a biographer was to summarise them.

The second fault was Mr Manchester's tendency to lionise his subject. Brilliant he may have been, but a bit more acknowledgement of Winston's faults would have made him more human and reachable.

But this is nitpicking. Overall the book is a good read on a subject well worth reading about.

Read both books - Best history/biography ever!
Many lists say the best historical biography is "Disraeli" by Blake. This is better. Way better.

The only author that has ever kept me glued to a book as much as Manchester's is Michael Crichton. It's odd to compare a biography to Jurassic Park, but Manchester makes history come alive. He spends a lot of time and care setting the "culture" in a way that is not pedantic or boring (unlike some Civil War histories I've read!). And then he builds on Churchill's stories in a way that makes you feel like you're in Churchill's shoes, with the same issues and challenges.

Unfortunately, there is no Volume 3 about the war years. Manchester's illness prevented this. What a sad loss to history.

Read Vol 1 and 2. You won't regret it. ... Read more

Reviews (39)

In the Footsteps of the actor
The best portrayal of Jesus in any film was Robert Powell in the 1977 mimi series, "Jesus of Nazareth".. I thought Marchiano was waaaay over the top and that his performance fell more in the category of amateur. That being said, I thought the book was somewhat insightful but as I read on it kept reminding me that it was more about walking in the footsteps of Mr. Marchiano rather than Jesus. Not recommended

Its about a love relationship
This book is simple, yet powerful, and to the point. Bruce tells his story as actor and christian since his days in Hollywood until he finally met up with director Regard van der Berg from South Africa. Between the two of them they made a powerful movie, about the book of Matthew which is in the Bible. The power behind the movie and the book is inspired by the Spirit of God but also the fact that the script is word for word as it is written in the Bible. They did not add anything or take anything away.

Sharing his personal delemas and struggles in searching God and then ultimately how making this movie changed and touched his life, is the essence of this book. The book is written in such a way that it draws you closer to the Lord making you aware of the reality that took place when Jesys died on the cross but also the unconditional love God has for us.

The book is special to have and you can clearly see Bruce wrote this book, with no hidden agendas, but to share a truth that truly sets free. This will enrich your personal relationship with the Lord Jesus...and I hope it will bless you the way it blessed me!

LOVE!
I've never been a "Christian," I never understood the emotional appeal of Jesus, until I read this book after seeing the movie, and felt the incredible love, from God and Jesus. The incredible blessings and "coincidences" that occurred to bring him to the role, the research he did to prepare, the miracles that happened during filming, and the incredible ministry that's developed out of it, are all described in Bruce's wonderful friend-to-friend conversational style. What a wonderful loving communicator he is. Read it!Whether you "believe" or not, READ IT!You'll be transformed by the love.This is now a textbook to me, which I read through whenever I need to be reminded.

You'll Read It In A Day
Never before had I been compelled to read a book in a day...But for some reason, back in July of 2001, I sat down with "In The Footsteps Of Jesus" by Bruce Marchiano and did just so...

If you are searching for a God and a Savior without religion, you will find it here.The Christian religion tends to focus on religion and forget about the One it is all about!Bruce Marchiano lovingly and brilliantly brings the pages of this book to life with an awesome, loving, compassionate Jesus...The Christ that the Bible talks about...The true Christ!

Bruce shares his personal experiences, stories and, yes, even some miracles of his own before, during and after the filming of the "Matthew" film series.And he speaks to the reader as if he is having a cup of coffee with you and visiting with a friend...

You must read this book for your betterment, and then, you must share it with others...

And don't be surprised if you, too, read it in a day!

Best portrayal on film
C.S. Lewis wrote that Jesus was either a liar, a lunatic, or the Lord He claimed to be.Unfortunately, on stage and film many actors slip into the "lunatic" portrayal--especially during difficult "angry" scenes like the cleansing of the temple and confrontations with the Pharisees.And those who avoid that pitfall often portray Jesus as a mystic with His head in the clouds, completely out of touch with reality.But through great prayer and study Bruce Marchiano captured a portrayal that not only overcomes these two problems but does so much more.Often his portrayal is surprising and even amazing, but for students of the New Testament, it rings true.This is a Jesus who is passionate and full of joy.I began playing Jesus on stage a few years ago in local church productions.I have read this book over and over and never cease to be inspired by the remarkable insights it provides.For sholarship, try Philip Yancey's "The Jesus I Never Knew."But for the remarkable revelations only an actor discovers, read this amazing book. ... Read more

Book Description

Chief Justice Roy Moore believes the state must acknowledge the moral principles on which America was founded and that it is not illegal to do so. While the separation of church and state may be a credible and legitimate tenet, it has been largely misconstrued and abused during the last forty years. Justice Moore swore to uphold the Constitution of the United States. His critics, both within conservative circles and without, have maintained that he violated the law by disobeying the order of a federal judge to remove a monument of the Ten Commandments. But Moore brilliantly argues that those who have ordered him to violate his oath have, in fact, broken the law. So Help Me God will articulate why he believes elected and appointed government officials have the right and the obligation to acknowledge God as the foundation of American government and jurisprudence. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Reverend Roy vs. the First Amendment
I don't know how somebody gets to be Chief Justice of the Alabama Supreme Court with as little understanding of the Constitution and the founding of America as Roy Moore apparently has.

While serving in that capacity and therefore having exclusive control over the display of historical monuments and such in the rotunda of his state's Supreme Court building, he erected a two-and-a-half-ton granite display of the Ten Commandments (at his own expense), and then repeatedly insisted -- as he does to this day in this book -- that being told to take it down somehow forced him to 'deny God'.

He firmly believes that this nation was founded to enact into law the principles of the Christian religion -- specifically Moore's own high-octane brand of Protestant fundamentalism. But his opinion is based primarily on his unstated presumption that every occurrence of the word 'God' refers to 'Christianity' -- and also on his unstated presumption that documents like the Declaration of Independence have legal significance.

They don't, and neither does the preamble of the Alabama state constitution (which says something about acknowledging God). As ex-Judge Moore should know full well, courts don't base law on constitutional preambles. And as he also should know, nothing in the Alabama constitution gives the chief justice _any_ power to engage in religious expression as part of his official duties, nor would the federal Constitution allow such a delegation of power to stand anyway. And yet this guy deliberately put up a monument deliberately intended to convey and reinforce his claim that the laws of our land are based on Christianity, and to this day paints himself as a martyr for having been ordered to take it down and removed from office for his refusal to obey a federal court order.

Well, there's a huge difference between being 'forced to deny God' and being told that you can't use the rotunda of the state Supreme Court building as your own personal pulpit. If you can tell these two things apart already, the main thing you'll learn from this book is something about the outlook of someone who can't. In other words, you'll get some insight into the way the mind of a theocrat works.

That's actually a helpful thing, because -- as a direct result of cases like Moore's -- _other_ theocrats are out there trying to strip the federal judiciary of its authority to rule on cases involving public officials' 'acknowledgements of God'. (At the time I write this, both the House and the Senate are considering bills to do exactly that.)

So if you have any interest in retaining your hard-won Constitutional freedoms and in not undoing a half-century and more of Supreme Court rulings on the First Amendment, this is probably a good book to skim through at least once. At the very least, it will help you understand the mindset of the people who want to strip you of those freedoms.

And if you know anything about Constitutional law, it might also give you a few good laughs. If nothing else, you're bound to chuckle at the sight of Roy Moore facing off against the courts who restrained him and accusing _them_ of 'judicial tyranny'.

Revisionist History
Judge Moore is so blinded by his personal beliefs, he cannot see the US Constitution and our history without the prism of Christianity.He misinterprets historical facts to support his view;

1. Sir William Blackstone is mentioned as a legal scholar that influenced the founding fathers on the rule of law by God. In Blackstone's writings, he refers to God as in the God of Nature and laws of nature. This is the God of Diesm and Secularism, not Christianity. The Founding Fathers were part of this movement. There is an assumption by Moore, if you believe in God, you are a Christian and therefore believe in the 10 commandments. This is far from true.

2. He refers to the Declaration of Independence as proof of our heritage to God. But an argument can be made that the God and creator is a God of Diesm. Nature's law and God's law refers to the thinking of Free Thinking Secularists. This is not a reference to CHristianity. And by the way, The Declaration of Independence is only a historical document, It has no legislative powers.

3. The word God is not mentioned once in the US Constitution. The word religion appears only once in article 6; "There shall be no religious test to hold public office".Religious leaders and "Enthusiasts" as Jefferson called them, actively campaigned against the ratification of the Constitution because it did not invoke the divine providence of God. It was a fight between secularists and Religious zealots. The secularists won. Jefferson was labeled the "The French Infidel".

4. Roy Moore totally ignores the influence John Locke and the Secular free thinking movement taking place in Europe that influenced the Founder Fathers. Jefferson was accused of plagarizing John Locke in writing the Declaration of Independence.

5. Moore does not point to any historical fact that our laws are based on the 10 commandments or a Christian God. He assumes any mention of God, his a Christian God. The truth is, We were founded not on the believe of a Judeo-Christian God, but a God of Diesm and Secular Free Thinking. This is what the Nature's God and the Laws of Nature refer to. Read the "Age of Reason" by Thomas Paine. A strong anti-Christianity book by a Founding Father. He explains the this principle of deism in detail.

Religious evangelical activists who once attacked the US Constitution and Jefferson for being immoral secularists that did recognize the divine providence of God, today they wrap the US Constitution and the Founding Fathers in Christianity and blame liberal activists judges for taking religion out of our public life.

This is true revisionist History.

Heroic 10 Commandments Judge Tells His Side of the Story!
The first half of this book is a real page turner, and my favorite part of the book. It is interesting to hear about the life of a state-level Supreme Court judge. You get to read about how they are just normal people like the rest of us, not some kind of mysterious, untouchable breed of mankind that they usually seem to be (at least to me, they seem to be).

In "So Help Me, God" we read how Roy Moore was actually a bit of a wild man in his life, before he became the Chief Justice of the Alabama Supreme Court. He was into gymnastics and boxing, served in Viet Nam, and drifted around in Australia like a cowboy before settling down, getting married, and having kids in the 1980's.

The book also contains several of his own POEMS, some great, some okay, but I find it amazingly impressive that a professional judge would be indulging in the arts like he does with poetry. Roy Moore is a wild man!

The book tells about his concerns over being perceived as too conservative, too straitlaced and uptight seeming towards the men he had responsibility over, in the military; yet here he is writing poetry--the kind of thing usually attributed to lax, liberal-minded people, not staunch conservatives. He's a cool guy, indeed!

The second half of the book gets more serious in tone, discussing the famous 10 Commandments Monument case that unjustly cost him his job, and the back story leading up to the case.

This is a great book that gives insight into the world of judicial "office politics."But when the office is the Supreme Court of a state, then these politics affect the entire population of that state, and influence the rest of the country, too.

Unfortunately, the book starts to lose the lighthearted momentum of the first half of the book, while going into the serious details of his productive, successful, but contentious, judicial career. But this second half is also where the most important information is.

He explains a lot about the judicial historical references, and founding fathers of the USA, how they formed and perceived the US Constitution and law in the USA--based on their CHRISTIAN VALUES!

While giving us the details of how the famous 10 Commandments case was truly an unfair trial ordeal, with the opposition stacking the deck unfairly against him, this book also explains the major milestones in the judicial history of cases that lead us up to our current mess in the USA--JUDICIAL TYRANNY!

These days, there are some very rotten judges who reject God, and believe themselves to be the highest authority in the land.The truth is that the judicial system is meant to be the WEAKEST branch of government in the USA--weaker than the President (executive branch) and the Congress (legislature branch).

Unfortunately, we have weak-hearted politicians who are afraid to stand up to renegade judges, even though our laws and the US Constitution clearly give them the power and responsibility to do so.

Judge Roy Moore is the voice of experience when it comes to being persecuted in court for standing up for Christianity, by the anti-Christian, anti-American judicial system of today. The bad guys dodge the truth while enforcing technicalities. They pervert the letter of the law while attempting to destroy the spirit of the law.

I hope Judge Roy Moore runs for President of the United States, sometime soon! He's got my vote!

So Help Me God: A Online Review
Chief Justice Roy Moore's book So Help Me God is a fascinating story of a man who dared to stand up against judicial tyranny. He grew up on a small farm in Gadsden, Alabama. Roy Moore shows us that all throughout our nation's history the right to acknowledge Almighty God as the Supreme Law Giver has been evident. More important than his own story, this book explains the background of the whole "separation of Church and state" argument. Moore was removed from his position as chief justice because he stood by his oath to uphold the Constitution. Moore is a true illustration of how seriously every Christian leader should take his oath.

framers support christianity but without enforcement of govt
judge roy moores excellent and well researched writings delicately
show the breadth the height the depth of both our history and our
forefathers thought life.enabling us to see and appreciate their
discerning intellects at work to preserve our form of goverment
consisting of a predominately christian people and for the same.it
is manifest and undeniable to any learned, truth loving reader that
the seperation of church and state is not open to modern constructions of unchristian people groups when all relevant writings are considered as helpfully interpretative
documents.
... Read more

Book Description

Karen Armstrong begins this spellbinding story of her spiritual journey with her departure in 1969 from the Roman Catholic convent she had entered seven years before -- hoping, but ultimately failing, to find God. She knew almost nothing of the changed world to which she was returning, and she was tormented by panic attacks and inexplicable seizures.

Armstrong's struggle against despair was further fueled by a string of discouragements -- failed spirituality, doctorate, and jobs; fruitless dealings with psychiatrists. Finally, in 1976, she was diagnosed with epilepsy, given proper treatment, and released from her "private hell." She then began the writing career that would become her true calling, and as she focused on the sacred texts of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, her own inner story began to emerge. Without realizing it, she had embarked on a spiritual quest, and through it she would eventually experience moments of transcendence -- the profound fulfillment that she had not found in long hours of prayer as a young nun.

Powerfully engaging, often heartbreaking, but lit with bursts of humor, The Spiral Staircase is an extraordinary history of self.

Reviews (29)

Outstanding, worthwhile, best I've read
This book is one of the best I've read in a very long time. Ms. Armstrong's account of her life after leaving the convent and her search for her life's meaning was compelling and beautifully written. I learned so much from her struggle and her courage. Such difficulties could have led many people to suicide, but she toughed it out and never gave up. In the end, her reward and ours was a life lived in study, comtemplation, and sharing her wisdom through her writing. Anyone who has ever grappled with the meaning of religion and life will benefit from reading this book. It reads like a novel and will draw you in as it did me. Thank you Karen Armstrong for this beautiful, heartfelt memoir. I absolutely loved your book.

ENCOURAGING AND INSPIRATIONAL
Karen Armstrong speaks to the seekers - seekers of truth, seekers of wisdom, and those who are engaged in a search for God. It's a given that we learn from the lives of others. Yet few have experienced this author's profound spiritual journey and been able to share it so articulately.

It is not that her powerful story needs added luster for it stands alone. Yet, hearing this reading in her voice does very much enrich the listener's experience. In addition, it is well worth replaying - a journey one would wish to hear related again and again.

For those not familiar with her best-selling hardcover book, Ms. Armstrong spent 7 years in a Roman Catholic convent. She left that protected place in 1969, deeply disappointed that she had not found God there. The world she reentered was vastly changed, and she fell prey to panic attacks and inexplicable seizures - enough to terrify the bravest soul.

She turned to psychiatry for help but that was a dead-end; her search for work was fruitless. At last, in 1976, it was found that she had epilepsy and she received appropriate care.

Next, she turned to writing and an exploration of faiths other than Christianity, much to the benefit of a world anxious for words of reassurance. She is not only a role model but a splendid teacher as well. All who listen to her words are her beneficiaries.

- Gail Cooke

To Thine Own Self be True
I love this book, thank you Karen Armstrong for the amazing honesty of your journey. It has given me the insight, courage and conviction to "follow my bliss" and to accept the "cloud of unknowing". Being in recovery from two major mental illnesses, I strongly identify with the pain, rejection and mystery of not being sure of one's own mind at times. I do hope Ms. Armstrong will continue to write more as she continues her wonderful exploration.

Truth is in the finding, not in the giving
In 1970 I did what Karen Armstrong did: I left a Roman Catholic order of nuns. My encounter with the "religious life" lasted for 16 years and one of my own burning questions since then has been to ask myself why I stayed so long.
I tried to leave three times. Once before profession, once at the time of final vows and again after a teaching career of seven or eight years. Each time I discussed it with a superior, I was warned that I was being tempted by the devil and that my very soul was at risk.
One morning in June of 1970, I bypassed the superior and called on of my former students. I don't remember why I told him but it must have had something to do with a need to say it publicly to someone who was not that concerned about my immortal soul, but who was in fact very concerned about my ability to survive in the world. His challenge that I would never last "outside" was just what I needed to motivate me to move on.
Since that time I have tried in many and varied venues to come to terms with that part of my life and to intergrate it into my present experiences. Almost always I have been only slightly successful. Earlier this month I attended the golden jubliee of the "band" with whom I entered. The liturgy was very welcoming and I felt a certain closure for my experience.
I had ordered The Spiral Staircase earlier this spring after hearing Ms. Armstrong speaking with Bill Moyers. When I got home from the jubilee I decided to begin reading her account of a shared experience.
Her story drew me in. I had lived the same life.
I have always wondered how the RCC had managed to indoctrinate some many young American women; we who had been raised in a country of freedom of thought. I am amazed that the program was universal!
I recommend this beautifully written book to anyone who continues to struggle with the rigid training that has left us living and feeling outside of the norm.

Karen Armstrong's bias?
On p. 281, referring to 1991, Armstrong writes, "the U.S.-led coalition began the air offensive Desert Storm against Iraq."
Armstrong overlooks the fact that this 1991 "offensive" was IN DEFENSE of the country of Kuwait, which had been invaded by Iraq several months earlier. ... Read more

Book Description

The definitive biography of Pope John Paul II -- by The American Expert on the Pope.

As the spiritual leader of nearly one billion Catholics and the head of the oldest universal organization, Pope John Paul II wields enormous international power and influence. Yet, in the seventeenth year of his papacy, he remains a mystery -- theologically, politically, and personally.

In this landmark, definitive new biography of the 264th pontiff, Tad Szulc, a former New York Times bureau chief and award-winning author, sheds long-awaited light on the life of Karol Wojtyla. Included are such exclusive highlights as: Wojtyla's life and work under Nazi occupation; the story of how the communists inadvertently helped Wojtyla to become a bishop, opening his way to the papacy; the secret police files revealing their attempt to undermine his cardinalship; and the never-before-revealed account of the Pope's backstage involvement in the downfall of Polish communism.

Drawing on Szulc's unprecedented access to the Pope himself, his friends, colleagues, and collaborators -- and on secret documents from many sources -- Pope John Paul II is a work of monumental religious and political significance. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

A Great Biography
This book was a biography about Pope John Paul II.It included many interesting facts about the pope.Some of the information in the book is that his name before becoming pope was Karol Wojtyla.He was born on Tuesday, May 18, 1920.He was born in the town of Wadowice, in Poland.His whole family died by the time he was 22.
He became pope on October 16, 1978.

One thing that I like about Tad Szulc's biography is that he gives a great background of one of the most famous men in the Catholic Church.Most of the things Szulc discusses in the biography I never knew about.The book takes the reader through Karol Wojtyla's lifefrom his birth until now.It shows how the pope had an incredibly difficult life.Another thing about the book that I like is that it shows how the pope's past experiences and upbringing affect the man he is today.The book doesn't just throw out facts it also show's how Karol Wojtyla's past experiences have shaped his opinions and attitudes, and characteristics.

What I didn't like the book was that it was full of positive comments about the pope, but no criticism. Even though I agree with the author about what a great man the pope is, to others it may appear that Szulk ignored any negative information about the pope.I realize that he was a very moral and respectable person growing up, but everyone does at least one minor thing wrong during their upbringing, like being mischievous or causing trouble.The book does not mention anythingthat Wojtyla has ever done wrong.It makes him seem like he is without sin.Despite some minor complaints about the book, I think it was an excellent biography.

A Good Biography, But Not The Whole Story
"Pope John Paul II" is a balanced biography of the Holy Father, from his youth in Poland to the time of the writing in 1995.Tad Szulc's theme throughout is that to understand John Paul II, one must understand his Polishness.Polish culture and experience have molded Karol Wojtyla and have powerfully influenced his Papacy.

Born the son of a minor army officer, Karol Wojtyla lost his mother at the age of 9 and his father while a 20 year old college student.Having lost his older brother between the deaths their parents, he was left alone at a young age.Undertaking his studies at Jagiellonian University, Wojtyla's education was interupted by World War II.Karol obtained employment at a stone quary, thereby obtaining immunity from deportation.

An aspiring actor, Karol Wojtyla saw Poland's salvation in the preservation of its cultrue.His participation in the undergorund Rhapsodic Theatre was his contribution to the cause of keeping alive the flame of Polish culture in Kracow.

During this time, Wojtyla was introduced tothe works of St. John of the Cross by his friend and mentor, Jan Tyranowski.These writings lead Wojtyla into the worlds of theology, philosophy and, ultimately, the priesthood.Entering an underground seminary, he was eventually brought into the Archbishop's residence for safety while continuing his studies.

Upon ordination in 1946, Fr. Wojtyla was sent to Angelicum University in Rome to continue his education.There he was taught by Rev. Reginald Garrigou-Lagrange, O.P., a Dominican who was to exert a tremendous influence over his philosophical and theological thought.Touring Western Europe before his return to Poland, Wojtyla observed the priest-worker movement in France.

Returning to Poland, Wojtyla had a career including pastoral, academic and administrative duties.A major part of his ministry was to youth, with whom he would often go on hiking, kayaking or skiing trips.

An appointment as auxiliary bishop of Krakow introduced him into administrative positions and enabled him to attend all session of Vatican Council II, where he played an prominent role.Promotion to Archbishop of Krakow led to his appointment as Cardinal.

Wojtyla's rise in the Church was promoted by powerful patrons, such as Cardinal Sapieha of Krakow and Pope Paul VI.His performance at Vatican II and his travels to Rome and elsewhere made him a well-known figure among many in the Church hierarchy.Among the ironies in Wojtyla's career was that he was not a favorite of the Primate, Cardinal Wyszynski, but was favored by the Communist government which regarded him as apolitical.

With the death of Pope Paul VI, the conclaves of 1978 convened.Progressive forces supporting Cardinal Benilli and Conservatives backing Cardinal Siri deadlocked the conclaves, leading to searches for compromises.The first conclave found its compromise candidate in Cardinal Luciani, Pope John Paul I.The second, guided by Cardinal Koenig of Vienna and Cardinal Krol of Philadelphia, turned to Cardinal Wojtyla.

With his election, Pope John Paul II immediately began to win the hearts of the world.Traveling across the globe, John Paul has visited many nations and confronted many challenges, with varying success.

Much of the reporting of John Paul's Papacy deals with the Pope's involvement in the evolution of Poland from a Communist to a free state, an process in which the Pope is presented as having exerted a moderating influence.

Later chapters deal with specific issues confronting John Paul II, including Liberation theology in Latin America, the role of women in the Church, issues over clerical celibacy, inculturation of the Church, family life and the right to life.

At the end, Szulc gives an assessment of Pope John Paul II as a man who enjoys immense personal popularity and respect but who has not been able to transfer that acceptance to the Church which he heads.While leaving the reader to draw his own conclusions, Szulc suggests that John Paul II may have failed in important aspects of his duties as head of the Church.

Szulc deeply studies and evaluates the Karol Wojtyla and John Paul II of action.I believe that John Paul's greatest long run contribution to the Church may be the vast store of philosophical and theological writings which he has produced.I think that in these teachings may be the foundations of a great Catholic Renaissance.You will find little reference and less exploration of the Pope's writings in this book.Tad Szulc depicts John Paul II as a very intelligent, talented and dedicated man who has been both molded and limited by his Polish background.Tad Szulc is limited by his vision.This biography is very good, but does not tell the whole story of Pope John Paul II.

interesting, though focussed on Polish events
First a warning: I advice you to skip the very first part of the book, in which is the author tries to give the reader a feeling on the Polish background of the pope. It's unbalanced, emotional, somewhat chaotic, andvery little to the point. I almost stopped reading the book because ofthis.

But when you start reading where the chronological description ofthe pope's life starts, you'll find a thorough biography, withoutexaltation, and not without some critical points of view.The first halfof the book deals with the years before Karol became pope, and show how hewas trained, coached, and grew as a actor, priest, play write, bishop,mystic poet and cardinal, in the often hard conditions in Poland. Thesecond half deals with his policies as pope. Here is also a special focuson the Polish situation and how the pope exercised influence there. Thebook helps understanding the motivations of John Paul, even though onedoesn't have to agree with him on all accounts.

An interesting,insightful book.

Perhaps the most brilliant biography of the 20th century
This book is an excellent resource for anyone interested in the life of one of the greatest and most influential popes ever, John Paul II. Through the author's exceptional work, we get to know the man who became John PaulII, and relive his early heartbreaks and triumphs. From Nazi occupiedPoland to the modern day Vatican, all significant events are detailed anddiscussed. This is a biography to be reread time and again.

A BEAUTIFUL MUST READ FOR PEOPLE OF ALL FAITHS
Pope John Paul II has revolutionized the Papacy, stripping away much of the secrecy and making the Pope, for the first time in history, a Shepherd available to his flock.Although I thought this book leaned a little tooheavily on Poland and Polish history, I will give in and say it enhanced myunderstanding of this complex and charismatic Pope.A very thoroughbiolgraphy with fascinating looks at behind-the-scenes-politics in VaticanCity.Because of John Paul II's impact, he gets my vote as Man of theCentury and I recommend this book as a must read for people of any faith. ... Read more

Book Description

From master storyteller J. Randy Taraborrelli comes the powerful and moving story of one of royalty's most secretive families. Grace Kelly was swept away when the handsome Prince Rainier, a man she barely knew, asked for her hand in marriage. After a series of relationships with married co-stars, she was exhausted by the show-business lifestyle. If she married Rainier, she would be more than just a movie star, she would be Her Serene Royal Highness Princess Grace. Once in the palace, however, Grace found herself trapped in a fairy tale of her own making. Forced to make sacrifices that cut deeply into the core of who she was as a woman, she would then surrender her desires and ambitions for her spouse and her children. Grace and Rainier may have been royalty, but they were also husband and wife, and parents--and, as such, just as vulnerable to the conflicts that can contaminate any household. Drawing upon hundreds of exclusive interviews with family and friends, ONCE UPON A TIME portrays its subjects with passion and sympathy, revealing Grace, Rainier, Caroline, Albert, and Stephanie in ways both startling and compelling. ... Read more

Reviews (25)

Loved This Book
I couldn't wait to read this book and was not let down. What I loved is that the author didn't just copy every one else's information. If he didn't agree with what was written before, he wrote it his way. Therefore, to me, it was all fresh perspective. I loved the story of how Grace made the best of her life in Monaco, and became such a wonderful Princess even though the odds were against her. Who cares if the writer got the date of Diana's death wrong? Like that has anything to do with anything? That's a fact checker's error. This was such a good book, and so emotional. I would recommend it. If you want to know about Princess Diana and when she died there are lots of books out there that will give you all of that. But this one gives you Grace's and Rainier's story in a beautiful and wonderful way. Five stars from me, and I have read all the Grace books, too. This is the best one yet!

Read this first
It's obvious Taraborrelli did some research - that is to be commended. However, if his research led to the picture that appears in this book, he never should have written it - there's not much of a story to tell. In this book, we are told Grace Kelly had almost no royal qualities. She had no heart-felt interest in charity. She was not a great parent. She had no idea what feminism was. She loathed her life throughout most of the book - whined, complained, regretted her decision to marry a Prince - thought her marriage lacked passion - on and on. We're asked to accept she won her subjects over but never given an explanation as to how. In fact, she wrote toward the end of her life that she wished a frog would turn into a prince and take her away from the miserable island she lived on. We're asked to accept she fell in love with Ranier in the beginning of her marriage, but read stories that did not support that.

The author (probably unwittingly) makes most of the men in the book accessible, reasonable, and likeable while most of the women are just the opposite. The men - Father Tucker, Prince Ranier, Prince Albert - you'll put the book down feeling warm about them. Oh, and since Prince Ranier had almost exclusive control over raising Prince Albert (and not the 2 princesses), it makes sense in this particular book that only Prince Albert turned out perfect while the two Princesses, raised almost exclusively by Grace, were complete disasters. We're asked to appreciate the "sacrifice" Grace made in giving up her acting career, yet, told that she resented her decision, never stopped trying to go back, never stopped complaining about it, etc.

By this account, Grace Kelly humiliated her husband numerous times, saying to friends and/or publicly through all the years that she regretted staying in a passionless marriage. The author never asks how Ranier (or the children) must have felt at hearing such horrible sentiments. The author actually relays these statements as though they evoke sympathy for Grace.

Next, the author makes some very odd statements. He says the death of Grace Kelly brought more collective grief of any celebrity since JFK. I guess Elvis, for example, didn't exist. Read the reviews - many people know very little about Kelly. Similarly, he says Kelly's long term impact will be greater than Princess Diana. Ha ha ha. (He must have been caught up in the moment). He also uses language sloppily - e.g. - "produced productions" - He misuses the word "ironic" in the popular way people misuse that word (that is, people who are not authors).

I kept waiting for a story worth reading. It never materialized.

Lengthy Yet Lackluster
I'm one of those people who is intrigued by queens and princesses and gladly grabs up most offerings on the topic. When I first saw this book, I figured that it would contain a story as perfect as its cover. Well, not quite.

It wouldn't be fair to say that "Once Upon A Time" has no redeeming qualities. If nothing else, it seems to be the only in-print biography of Grace Kelly-which makes it somewhat valuable for anyone trying to learn about this famous lady. Also, it is written in a readable, conversational way-nothing overly "intellectual." And one certainly couldn't say that this book is completely devoid of interesting people, quotes, or happenings. The story of Grace and Ranier is definitely one that would have some fascination almost regardless of how badly it was told.

Yet as I was reading this book, I had a nagging sense that it wasn't as "unputdownable" as it should have been. I'd often feel like stopping after reading a few pages and rarely felt like I was really "getting into" the book.

Perhaps this dullness can be explained by the fact that the book was just too long. The author repeated himself frequently, seeming to resort to variations on main ideas whenever he had nothing fresh to say. (He often mentioned something similar to this throughout the first half of the book: "Although Grace was a successful career woman who seemed to have it all, she just needed her parents' approval.") Another similar problem was that the author tended to spend too much time recounting dull periods in the couple's lives. Finally, many included quotes just screamed, "That completely didn't need to be said!"

There are some enlightening passages and quotes in this book, but if you read it you'll often find the problems instead of the positives. If you're looking for a good royal biography, read "Lilibet: An Intimate Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II" instead.

really good
This a is a very good ind interesting book on Grace Kelly's life. I think it's well written, and some great photos and the author did a good job in writing it truthfully, delicately and telling a good balence of a negative and posative

Trivial stuff--DON'T BOTHER WITH THE BOOK
This was just a regirgitation of all the other drivel written about her. Author should be ashamed to take his royalty check! We all know the little stories-heck, we could have dug them up online! Not much depth here. He makes veiled comments about Kelly and her life, but only goes so far. VERY DISAPPOINTING ... Read more

Book Description

Read by
3 cassettesapprox. 5 hours

A hugely appealing audiobook that reveals the ways in which presidential marriages have affected the tone, character, and polices of twelve administrations, from Woodrow and Edith Wilson to George W. and Laura Bush.

Each of the marriages that Kati Marton examines offers up its own unexpected lessons about power and marriage, about the influence of presidential wives, and about the evolution of women's roles in the twentieth century. Based on private White House documents to presidential events, Hidden Power explores how both the personal dynamics and public faces of White House marriages have shaped our history.

We see Edith Wilson literally running the government when her husband becomes ill; the superb and necessary diplomacy of Jacqueline Kennedy; how Patricia Nixon's estrangement from her husband fed his paranoia; the generally constructive role Nancy Reagan played, despite her frivolous reputation; the razor-sharp political instincts behind Barbara Bush's grandmotherly image; how Hilary Clinton saved her husbands presidency.

Here are the stories of the ultimate power couples—each one very different, but all of them informative, lively, and absolutely fascinating. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Fast and enjoyable
I don't think this book is as awful as previously stated. If you take it for what it is - a gossipy, fast reading analysis on presidential marriages - it is enjoyable. The author did make several mistakes on common knowledge information. She never mentioned the fact that Betty Ford was previously married (which most everyone knows) and she stated that upon entering office, Richard Nixon had dinner with his daughters and their husbands. This is incorrect, since Tricia Nixon wasn't married at the time her father became president. She was married in the White House.

I'm rethinking my own marriage after reading this one
In contrast to the star-struck cheeriness of the well known pop-historian of first ladies, Carl Sferrazza Anthony, Kati Marton's book is excellent. Marton's reason for not writing on certain presidential couples is essentially that these relationships offer little that would interest a reader--a trick Sferrazza Anthony would have done well to consider. Although Marton offers few new facts, her book is unique because of the side-by-side analysis--often comparison--of presidential couples. Anyone who doesn't appreciate good gossip has no buisness picking up this book. Analyzed at length is the issue of presidential mistresses--continually present in the White House, it appears. Interesting is how the first ladies--Roosevelt, Kennedy, Johnson, and Clinton each handled these affairs in her own way. Seeking clues with regard to enhancing my own marriage, I found lots and lots of help--and I'm only up to the Johnsons.

Enjoyable and informative
This was an enjoyable light, but informative book about presidencies from a different perspective than most. I differ from one of the panning reviews in that I thought it was refreshingly not leftist liberal journalism. The author seemed to take a non-political view of the characters with an expected sympathetic eye towards the first ladies. I also found some factual discrepancies that a fact checker should have found which - as always - puts a cloud on the author's credibility; i.e.: Ford was an All-American center for Mich, not a star quarterback at Yale. But her countless quotes from insiders were well chosen, very informative and interesting. She did her homework on those. If there were half stars to give, I'd give this a three and one-half. Certainly worth the time.

Fascinating, but not always accurate
Kati Marton's book, HIDDEN POWER, examines the marital relationships of twelve couples who occupied the White House between 1916 and the present. This book has a number of good aspects. First, it is fascinating and holds the reader's interest from the introduction through the epilogue. Second, Ms. Marton succeeds in humanizing some larger than life personalities (for the first time, I saw an appealing, sympathetic and human side to FDR). I constantly found myself relating to the couples featured in this book. Third, Ms. Marton draws interesting comparisons between the presidential marriages and discusses the impact of those relationships upon history.

I must say that I noticed a surprising number of factual errors, exaggerations and authorities cited out of context. For example, Ms. Marton begins her chapter on the Nixons with an anecdote that Pat Nixon had a cup of cottage cheese sent up to her bedroom on her first night in the White House while Richard Nixon had a celebratory steak dinner with his daughters and their husbands (Nixon did not have two sons-in-law in January 1969 -- Tricia didn't marry until August 1971 in memorable Rose Garden ceremony). I understand that Ms. Marton was trying to demonstrate the pathos in Pat Nixon's relationship with her husband. However, the obvious misstatement in that anecdote made me wonder what else was erroneous. Also, Ms. Marton cited J.B. West's UPSTAIRS AT THE WHITE HOUSE out of context in at least one instance. There were additional inaccuracies and exaggerations in the chapters on the Wilsons, Nixons and Fords.

HIDDEN POWER is an insightful and enjoyable work in spite of the inaccuracies. Read this book for the general themes, but double-check the facts before quoting this book or using it as an authority for a research paper or thesis.

Almost 4 stars
This was an enjoyable light, but informative book about presidencies from a different perspective than most. I differ from one of the panning reviews in that I thought it was refreshingly not leftist liberal journalism. The author seemed to take a non-political view of the characters with an expected sympathetic eye towards the first ladies. I also found some factual discrepancies that a fact checker should have found which - as always - puts a cloud on the author's credibility; i.e.: Ford was an All-American center for Mich, not a star quarterback at Yale. But her countless quotes from insiders were well chosen, very informative and interesting. She did her homework on those. If there were half stars to give, I'd give this a three and one-half. Certainly worth the time. ... Read more

Book Description

Number-one bestselling author Ken Follett tells the inspiring, true story of the Middle East hostage crisis that began in 1979, and of the unconventional means Ross Perot used to save his countrymen.

... Read more

Reviews (24)

True story - as good as any politico/action novel
Most people know Ross Perot as the little guy with big ears who wanted to be President. A Texan of short stature with alot of money. He's all that - and a hell of alot more. Any person who takes the time to read this book will learn what a great and honorable person he is. His loyalty to his EDS employees goes far beyond what any person could have possibly expected. When members of his corporate entity (EDS) are arrested in Iran at the beginning of the Iranian revolution, his first reaction is to ensure that their families in the States are taken care of. His second step is to bring all the pressure he can muster to the State Department to free his men. When he meets roadblocks there -- he hires the best Special Ops guy around and puts together a small group of his employees. Together, along with a wad of cash for bribes, they go into Iran where they break their men out of jail and eventually are able to sneak out of the country. Here is a man who put himself and his money on the line in order to protect his employees. The mechanics of the how are left to the reader. After reading this book, I am quite sure you will have found new respect for the little man from Texas.

One of my Top 3 Favorite Books of all Time!
On The Wings of Eagles is destined to be a classic. It is the true life story of Ross Perot trying to save members of his corporation who are being held hostage by the Iranian government. He first tries using his clout and influence in Washington but when that does not work he hires a team of mercenaries to go to Iran to free the hostages and return unharmed to the United States.

The book reads like a fictional spy novel; however, it is a true story. Not "based on a true story" but 100% nonfiction, according to author Ken Follett. Nevertheless, this is one book that you will just not want to put down.

The maps, pictures, and cast of characters list makes the book even easier to follow.

Furthermore, the book also gives insight into the real life character, ex-presidental candidate, Ross Perot.

Sometimes truth is not as exciting as fiction
This is an absolutely true story of how some people working for Ross Perot at EDS were imprisoned in Iran and how the escaped. But, you know, sometimes true stories are not as interesting or suspenseful as fiction.

The introduction of the characters and the build up of the story are very well done. It is just that the escape was anticlimatic and not very exciting.

Other reveiwers make it sound like Ross Perot was a super hero, doing the impossible to rescue his workers. On Perot's side, he was very concerned for his people and took actions to try to help them. But, he wasn't involved in the actual rescue. He hired mercanaries to do the actual work.

It turns out that there was really no rescue. The captives escaped the prison on their own. The only thing the mercenaries supplied was transporation to the border. It made it easier for the people to get out of Iran, but they probably could have done it on their own.

This book would have been more interesting if it concentrated even more on the captives and gave less attention to Perot and the mercenaries. In that way, there would have been a lot more suspense and the ending would have had a better pay off.

This is not a bad book. The development of the characters is very good. And there is some tension when the captives are sent to prison. It's just there is no big action filled pay off in the end.

Great Book
It is as interesting as any of Tom Clancy's books with out boring you with 60 different plots that you know will eventually come to geather. It is great non-fiction book that lets you emerse yourself in the characters as well as the events of the time. If you have to do a report for school it is a great book, but it is just as good if you are looking for an interesting non-fiction read. A real page turner.

It is a true story, but something is missing.
The first part of the book is very interesting, how two people get arrested in Iran an the company owner (Ross Perot) make the dream team to take them out of jail, but when they are out and they trying to escape it gets boring and boring, you can read it but don't expect much of it. ... Read more

Book Description

On this extraordinary audio program, Julia Butterfly Hill, the remarkable woman who inspired the world by living in a giant redwood tree named “Luna” to protest the practices of the logging industry, shares her story of commitment, perseverance and courage with New Dimensions Radio host Michael Toms. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Inspiring Interview With An Environmental Heroine
New Dimensions Radio and Michael Toms are known for presenting some of the most important people and issues of our times. Gratefully, New Dimensions released this amazing interview with Julia Butterfly Hill. Her book 'Legacy of Luna' about her experiences 180 feet up a thousand year old redwood, and the resulting preservation of it and the surrounding grove, is fascinating and incredible. With this interview, we get to hear her speak of the ordeal/adventure in her own voice.

Even more than listening to the profound experience, her incredible spirit, generosity, and love for all living things is most inspiring. This tape is highly recommended for anyone who has respect for all forms of life and their protection.

The voice for those whom cannot speak
Julia Butterfly Hill's story is that in which is so awe inspiring and full of such powerful truth, its hard not to want to go out and do something extreme as well to protect our sacred environment in all of its natural beauty!

This audiocassette is wonderful, made by new dimensions radio ( whom is involved with many environmental issues), and is definetly a must have for you treehuggers, outdoor lovers, and spiritualists!

If you do not know of Julia's 2 year treesit in "luna", please go out and get this cassette! I guarentee it will leave you refreshed and inspired!

So take the journey with ms hill as she talks about her sit, and the trials and tribulations she experienced while participating in the longest treesit in history! (738days)

Happy listening! ... Read more

Book Description

Though reticent in public, George Bush has openly shared his private thoughts in his correspondence throughout his life. Fortunately, since the former president does not plan to write his autobiography, this collection of letters, diary entries, and memos, with his accompanying commentary, will fill that void.

Organized chronologically, the volume begins with eighteen-year-old George's letters to his parents during World War II when, at the time he was commissioned, he was the youngest pilot in the Navy. Listeners will gain insights into Bush's career highlights -- the oil business, his two terms in Congress, his ambassadorship to the U N., his service as an envoy in China, his tenure with the Central Intelligence Agency, and of course, the vice presidency, the presidency, and the postpresidency.

They will also observe a devoted husband, father, and American. Ranging from a love letter to Barbara and a letter to his mother, about missing his daughter Robin after her death from leukemia, to a letter to his children two weeks before Nixon's resignation, to one written to them just before the beginning of Desert Storm, the writings are remarkable for their candor, humor and poignancy.

As the Bushes continue to emerge as a major political family, this portrait of its unassuming patriarch is timely and important. That George Bush is allowing this much of the collection to be published is remarkable in itself. All the Best, George Bush provides a surprisingly intimate and insightful portrayal of the forty-first president of the United States. ... Read more

Reviews (50)

tasteful and informative autobiography
This is an intriguing and enticing look at former President George Bush through five plus decades of letters and diaries. The writings demonstrate that Mr. Bush's personal life mirror his public demeanor as a quiet, uncomplicated individual who strongly believes in family values. The entries include impressions of world leaders of the past two decades, adding to the interest.

Anyone seeking dirty laundry and partisan politics needs to skip this memoir. Instead, Mr. Bush treats everyone except the nagging press as a friend. The book serves as a refreshing look inside the guts of the former President as well as how he perceived some of his colleagues and events on the world stage. Fans of autobiographies, the American presidency, and American history will gain much pleasure from this memoir that is much more interesting than the sanitized version of greatness that many of the modern day autobiographies present. Mr. Bush shows his pride of simply being Mr. Bush.

Harriet Klausner

Thank you, Mr. Bush
George Bush does not intend to write his memoirs. He feels that his wife's book BARBARA BUSH: A MEMOIR and the book he wrote with Brent Scowcroft A WORLD TRANSFORMED told the story of his family life and his public one. But then his editor suggested that what was missing was "a personal book, a book giving a deeper insight into what his own heartbeat is, what his values are and what has motivated him in life." She suggested he publish a book of the letters he wrote during his life, along with journal entries. It was a brilliant idea!

At no time is this book boring. It starts when he was a young man writing letters home to his mother and father while training to fight in World War II. To me, his letters and journal entries sounded just like my dad's. He used the word "swell" a lot, talked about the girl back home and his feelings on the situation he found himself in. There was pride of country and the longing to be able to come back home and continue a normal life.

The book continues with letters written during the early years of his marriage, the loss of their daughter and eventually getting into politics. One chapter deals with their stay in China where he was an ambassador. He writes of how it felt to be so far from home, but eager to learn everything about the country they were in and also to be a good representative of the country they came from.

The chapters continue with his time as Director of the CIA, vice president, president and then back home to a life with his family in Texas.

The letters are very diversified. They are to his mother and father, his wife, his children, grandchildren, friends, but also to other leaders, both home and abroad. Some are written with a sense of humor, a lot of them with love, some to people who had written him critical letters, and some in times of events that were deeply troubling to him.

George Bush is a thoroughly decent man who loves his country, his family and his life. That comes through in the book. At some parts, I laughed out loud, at others a tear came to my eye but mostly I felt happy that he allowed these letters and thoughts to be printed.

as a bush fan...
.... you may want to look for another book. this one is full of "corrections" of what the actual man himself said. parts about family money made off the holocaust have been edited out, unfortunately. specifically in some letters addressed to leslie baukerberg (his life-long accountant) and tina goethe (his admitted former girlfriend) who both had invested in a brilliant stock some of that same money that granted him the ability to pay off campgain debts! as a fan of bush sr's work in the white house i was shocked to see these glaring omissions from letters i had previously read via the internet. perhaps the best book for this subject is the less-heavily-edited "sons of tommorrows sunshine" compiled by son jeb bush and the late author benjamin kowlestein will guide you more in the history of this man and his family.

The letters I REALLY wanted to see...
...were the ones he wrote to Jennifer Fitzgerald. But, for some reason he didn't include them. Unfortunately, the letters he DID include, to Barbara, etc... are clearly contrived and illustrate how gullible those around him are. George HW Bush's top three priorities in his life has been $, $ and even more $.

Also missing were the letters he wrote to the families of the crewmen he abandoned when he jumped from his lightly-damaged plane during WW2. Perhaps he never wrote them?

sappy self-aggrandizement
Horrible book from a terrible man! Why not step outside for a breath of fresh air, instead of subjecting yourself with your nose in this one. And if outside reading it, go inside and do something around the house more productive and gratifying, than reading a self-absored moribund tome to a corrupt, misguided, old man. ... Read more

Book Description

Much is known about Franklin Roosevelt and Winston Churchill's close relationship: they had similar backgrounds, education, and tastes, and shared world enemies. What David Stafford adds is an exploration of the touchstone of their mutual trust: an extraordinary and far-reaching sharing of military intelligence and a fascination for clandestine operations. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

The secrets behind the secrets
I really enjoyed this book, not because I enjoy reading about FDR all that much, but because it gives so much new information about how he prosecuted the war -- and because it does the same for Churchill, one of my most favorite flawed heroes. The author makes many points about what each knew, but would not tell the other, how at times both men knew that the other knew, but withheld, information, etc., and how they played their parts (and one another) in the delicate diplomatic dance in light of these things.

While admiring much about FDR's service to America and the world in WW2, I have a general antipathy to FDR's character and the way he did some things; but I do give him credit for having known how to move the American people by degrees, almost imperceptibly when that was necessary, into position to crush the Nazis, and this book reveals more about how he accomplished this. His foresight, diplomacy, and preparations surely shortened the war and saved untold lives. Having Churchill woven in as an equal on the world stage and in relation to FDR gave it a very savory counterpoise.

Very interesting
In the beginning of the war, Roosevelt sensed that Churchill even before he became Prime Minister would be important to the war effort. As time went on these men united by a fear of Hitler these men became friends as well as comrades in arms. This book explores there relationship though a rather unique perspective their intelligence departments. It explores how they got their intelligence and what they did with the knowledge that they gained from it. Despite their friendship the used it to advance the agenda of what they wanted for their own countries. At times their intelligence departments actually came into conflict as they both had different hopes and ambitions. As the war progressed these difference became more important.

I found the book very easy to read. Full of information that although I am a WW2 fanatic I have never seen before. I can recommend this book if you want to learn about the relationship of between these two men.

Enjoyable account
An enjoyable account of the circumstances that brought the two men together, and the relationship that they forged.

Often political friendships form out of necessity and mutual self interest. And that is obvious in this case.

But the fact that the two most remarkable and influential men (in a positive sense) were to forge such an important relationship makes for great reading. ... Read more

Book Description

A bestselling historian examines the life of a Founding Father

Explore Madison's rise to prominence in the colonies through his role in the creation if the Articles of Confederation and the first Constitutional Congress.Madison oversaw the first foreign war under the constitution, and had to confront issues such as public morale, internal security, relations with Congress, and the independence of the military.Wills also traces Madison's later life, during which he enjoyed greater popularity than while in office.
... Read more

Reviews (12)

Insights into the Madison presidency
Although it is nominally a biography of James Madison, this brief book is actually an examination of Madison's presidency. Wills explores the seeming contradictions between the brilliant Madison responsible for the Constitution and Bill of Rights and the less-than-impressive president.

Wills shows that there is less of a contradiction than there seems to be. The flaws that hurt Madison as a president were actually around much earlier, especially his inability to function well as an executive. Madison was much more a behind-the-scenes person, quite adept in committees or legislative situations, but not as able outside them.

As a biography, this book is rather short and sparse, but by focusing on one portion of Madison's life - the portion which he does not receive great acclaim for - Wills is still able to provide a lot of detail as he analyzes and explains the fourth presidency.

Madison Did Well In Spite of Himself
The first two or three chapters of this book were tough-going. The writing was choppy because the author kept jumping from his own narrative to lengthy quotes from Madison. But persistence paid off. It may not be the definitive biography of James Madison, but it's a good read.

The book is short and focuses on Madison's presidency, with some background on his accomplishments before becoming president. The story that Garry Wills tells is that James Madison enjoyed a moderately successful presidency in spite of himself. While he was a brilliant and effective member of the legislature, he really didn't have what it takes to be a good president. He was too much of an ideologue and not enough of a pragmatic. One of his big mistakes was the embargo. Both before and during his presidency he believed England was more reliant on trade with the U.S. that the the other way around.

The passages about early naval battles in the War of 1812 were fun: the fledgling United States whipping the most powerful navy in the world. Of course, Madison thought the war could easily be won on land and didn't even think we should have a navy. Nor did he think we should have a federal bank, until he ran out of money to carry on the war. The idea that he was ruining the U.S. economy with his embargo probably never occurred to him.

But the book has a happy ending. The War of 1812 ended without destroying the U.S. Additionally, during Madison's presidency the extreme polarization between the Federalists and the Republicans was tempered quite a bit-more people recognized the need for a stronger federal government. All in all, the United States of America was in a better place at the end of Madison's 8 years as president.

Good overview of a disappointing presidency
To me, the "American Presidents" series is one of the more unusual ongoing publication projects. Endeavoring to provide accounts of the people who have occupied the presidency and their terms in office, they have selected a first-class group of writers and historians (such as Sean Wilentz, William Leuchtenburg, and Douglas Brinkley) but often paired them up with subjects a little outside their normal focus - having Robert Remini, the foremost biographer of Andrew Jackson, write on John Quincy Adams instead, for example.

This volume is no different. Garry Wills is one of my favorite writers, the author of many thought-provoking books on subjects as diverse as Saint Augustine, the Gettysburg Address, and John Wayne. While he has written on the era before - his book on the Declaration of Independence is one of the best studies of it available - he has not previously focused on Madison in his publications. Nevertheless, this book is a good introduction to the man. While ostensibly focused on the presidency, Wills does incorporate much about Madison's pre-presidential career, especially in terms of how it shaped a presidency that by common consensus most historians regard as disappointing compared to his pervious accomplishments.

What makes this volume interesting to read, though, is Wills' own analysis. He never shies away from outlining his opinion, and he backs it up with persuasive (though not always convincing) arguments. His examination of Madison's foreign policy in the context of the Jeffersonian tradition is particularly good and alone worth the effort of reading the book. Though there are better books to turn to for a more comprehensive overview of Madison's career (such as Ralph Ketcham's biography), this is an excellent starting point in seeking to understand one of the most important of our Founding Fathers.

Well worth a read
Garry Wills has done a solid job with this entry in the American Presidents series. He focuses on one simple question: Why was Madison not a great president? Wills, after detailing Madison's pre-presidential achievements, examines his two terms in office with an eye toward certain types of mistakes that Madison made again and again. His research is outstanding; his writing solid.

Concise summary
Garry Willis provides a short, but concise summary of the administration of James Madison. He gives an overview of problems that plagued James Madison as president. Even though Madison was extremely effective at the several Constitutional conventions he attended and was an excellent legislator, being the executive proved to be a more difficult task than Madison could effectively handle.

The one shortcoming, was that at the end of book Willis notes that the Madison presidency experienced a surge in popularity without really delving into the reasons as to why this occured. This surge according to Willis prevents historians from rating Madison a failed president or for that matter an average president. There are some implications as to why this occured, but a more direct address of the issue would have been beneficial. All in all, however, Willis' accounting of the Madison presidency is a good overview into the administration of this president. ... Read more