Known and Unknown

A Memoir

By: Donald Rumsfeld

Narrated by: Donald Rumsfeld

Length: 30 hrs and 10 mins

Publisher's summary

A powerful memoir from the late former US Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld.

With the same directness that defined his career in public service, Rumsfeld's memoir is filled with previously undisclosed details and insights about the Bush administration, 9/11, and the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. It also features Rumsfeld's unique and often surprising observations on eight decades of history.

Rumsfeld addresses the challenges and controversies of his illustrious career, from the unseating of the entrenched House Republican leader in 1965, to helping the Ford administration steer the country away from Watergate and Vietnam, to the war in Iraq, to confronting abuse at Abu Ghraib. Along the way, he offers his plainspoken, first-hand views, and often humorous and surprising anecdotes about some of the world's best-known figures, ranging from Elvis Presley to George W. Bush.

Both a fascinating narrative and an unprecedented glimpse into history, Known and Unknown captures the legacy of one of the most influential men in public service.

©2011 Donald Rumsfeld (P)2011 Penguin Audio

Fascinating career

Don Rumsfeld has lived an amazing life and has been linked w/ hundreds of the finest & brightest Americans & world leaders of the past 50 years. This is the '"other side" of the story. I'm confident that no matter how critical U may have been of his ethos or actions, you'll feel as tho, U understand him better and you'll have a more fuller understanding of the "hows & whys" behind so much of the pivotal moments for this world & our countrry

Wonderful Insight into Current US Politics

First of all, great that Donald Rumsfeld read the book - it's like he is talking to you at home. Reveals some of the true traits of the characters in the Government beyond their television personas and highlights the real issues and options facing the Administration. Amazing story also of how a boy with such a wonderful and strong family background persevered and succeeded as a Navy Officer and then onto the Department of Defense and eventually the White House. A compelling story at every level!

Well done and enlightening.

A fascinating look at a long and distinguished political and business career. I was impressed to learn so much concerning the background of decisions and major events of the the last few decades. I came away with an increased appreciation for the complexity of decisions after 9-11 and for Mr. Rumsfeld's significant role. I also came away realizing what useless and simplistic sound bites the typical news program provides.
Tip of the hat that Mr. Rumsfeld narrated the entire book himself. I enjoyed the book very much.

Bill

What made the experience of listening to Known and Unknown the most enjoyable?

Best I've heard, bought CDs for my Sister

What was one of the most memorable moments of Known and Unknown?

speaking quality was excellent

What about Donald Rumsfeld’s performance did you like?

Everthing

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

yes but was 28 hours

An Unknown Perspective

An interesting glimpse into the life of a powerful figure during a trying time for our nation. I was a part of DoD during the Rumsfeld years (much lower on the totem pole) so had some understanding of Rumsfeld's background. This memoir filled in the gaps. Though he spends a good amount of time pointing fingers at other agencies and organizations, I enjoyed the frank commentary on the major events of his tenure as Secretary of Defense and also earlier in his political career. Whether you agree with his decisions or not, it's hard to come away from the book without appreciating his public service. Narrating himself was a huge plus. I wish more autobiographies were read by their authors. It was a nice touch that only added to the enjoyment.

Masterfully captures a rare tour de force

Rumsfeld’s career is virtually unparalleled, especially in today’s soundbyte-, 140-character-driven Washington. His unique access to pivotal moments in history — from Watergate to the Iraq War — offer a behind-the-scenes look into the personalities of so many consequential figures.

Eager to rebut criticisms, Rumsfeld retains the knife fighter mentality that made him so effective, and polarizing, in D.C. At times, however, Rumsfeld’s legendary impassivity, his refusal to show vulnerability, prevented his guard from coming down and outlining his true feelings on some of his hardest battles, leaving the reader wanting.

Nevertheless, this work effortlessly puts “Rumsfeld’s Rules” into action and explains the life and legacy of one of the most revered figures in modern American politics. In the end, he leaves the reader with a call to action, and a noble attempt to impart his belief in the country he desiccated his life’s work to.

A great read.

Known and Unknown

I have never been a fan of Rumsfeld but this is an excellent book that covers a great deal of our history for the last several decades. You get no sense that he is rewriting history to make himself and the Bush administration look better but you realize if they could have been this open at the time, they would not have lost support like they did. Sadly the necessities of war often do not allow that openness when it is needed.

No ax grinding or score settling. Just what appears to be a very honest assessment of the history he was part of.

Rumsfeld is an excellent narrator on this. He does a better job than some of the professionals on other books I have listened to.

A great story and a history lesson to boot

I have really enjoyed listening to Known and Unknown. Didn't really know what to expect because Rumsfeld has been so demonized by the media, but Rumsfeld opens up and gives us a view into his life. He talks about the admirable traits and the warts that our leaders have.

I learned, therefore, I liked.

I certainly am glad that I listened to this because I would not have gotten through reading the words. It was interesting, more in some parts. Ultimately, too many international relations-type issues for me. My respect for this man has increased.

Well Done Mr. Secretary

What made the experience of listening to Known and Unknown the most enjoyable?

His personal perspective in his own voiceI enjoyed his account of his grow

What did you like best about this story?

I enjoyed his account of his growing up years, giving us enough information to observe the development of his character without self aggrandizement. I experienced the same years and his account of familiar events gave me a better perspective since he viewed them close up.

What about Donald Rumsfeld’s performance did you like?

His voice. It is well known, so his experiences must be heard in that public voice. Also his "matter-of-fact" tone.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

No. It was a personal history, not meant to move, but to inform.

Any additional comments?

No. I did not always agree with the policies he espoused, but overall he was a good public servant.