book was in better condition than I expected and reading it now vs at 16 gave me a better understanding in our country's attitude. I know book was written by another but where our country's thoughts were then are still the same. I would definitely recommend my age group to read it again.
DaveH
Feb 25, 2009
A Great book by Ted Sorensen
John Kennedy did not write this book. It was written, for the most part by Ted Sorenesen - a few other people had a hand in it as well. Joe Kennedy engineered the Pulitzer win so it would help his son's career.
I only point this out because, had this been a less popular president (eg Nixon) this fact would most likely be prominently displayed on newer editions of the book.
Is it a worthwhile read? It can be plodding. I only have it in my collection because I specialize in Kennedy Johnson and Nixon.
Ron Townsend
Mar 18, 2008
grace under pressure
This book was as hard to read at age 10 as at age 60. When I finished it recently I picked up Sartre's lecture on existentialism as humanism and breezed through it. I don't know why political writings can be so convoluted. I guess politicians want to write for politicians. The only political writing I ever understood was that of Thomas Paine and I found myself again reading harder books after reading his. The point of Kennedy's book was to show that each of the eight men he profiled made a choice even though that would end their careers or hamper them in the future. Sartre would have considered their decisions existential.
Wolfman
Apr 26, 2007
True Grace Under Pressure
JFK truly deserved the Pulitzer Prize for his excellent account of extremely courageous, past U.S. Senators, who under extreme pressure from their own party, friends and constituents, decided to follow their individual conscience and abide by their principles rather than being swayed by partisan or regional political considerations, or because of selfish or vindictive reasons. Men of real integrity, these Senators chose to sacrifice everything that they have, including their career, their livelihood and personal reputation to follow and uphold the principle of fairness, justice and liberty. Every politician and every person in public office (national, state and local) should read this book for guidance in discharging his/her duties and responsibilities as public servants
