Johanna

Fantastic narration and character development. Some parts were a bit slow, however - you definitely feel like you are part of the Kitchen House and sad that it ends so soon.

I have heard about this book for several years and just got the chance to read it. Amazing, tangible, real life examples from Lincoln on how to lead in the face of adversity. Loved it.

I've seen Richard Clarke on various news shows, commentaries but until I saw him last week on HBO's Real Time with Bill Maher, didn't think to get one of his books.

I will be honest, I am interested in but not at all savvy when it comes to the inner workings and history of how our government, different administrations have engaged and acted in the Middle East or tackled terrorism. Especially, the long history the U.S. has in these efforts throughout the last 20 years. Nor did I get involved, i.e., peace sign in my front yard, when things were not what they seemed in Iraq.

Ignoring the political rhetoric and just being a sister emotionally involved as her younger brother served two tours in Iraq. . . visiting him at Walter Reed after a traumatic brain injury. . I really appreciate Richard Clarke's clear method of breaking down his own experience and facts without much hyperbole or opinion. . . .

I enjoyed this book immensely and would highly recommend it to anyone who loves transparency and logic.