Destiny and Power: The American Odyssey of George Herbert Walker Bush

It was most interesting seeing all the politicians of the time (from Kennedy through Rumsfeld, and Regan) through his perceptions.

No. Too long.

I'm not American, and don't have a political leaning toward either party. I thought the book a touching and humanizing read on GHWB and his family. He is an old style gentleman, and this comes through clearly. He had little stomach for the polarized nature of his party and most particularly for the far right. He seemed disappointed in a swing to the far right by Dick Cheney (who had served as GHWB's own secretary of defense - something I had forgotten). He also felt that as VP under GWB, Cheney was given too much power and autonomy. GHWB was loyal, dedicated, and tried to do what was right for his country and president(s), but he certainly made mistakes and missteps and I don't think this was glossed over. He is just a genuinely nice man. It was a very interesting read.

A courageous and confident man who has willingly opened up his core self to examination in a brave, unvarnished & unique way into the real man, his values, beliefs, and actions.

George H. W. Bush is one of the few presidents that did not write his autobiography after leaving office. Jon Meacham has produced the “official biography” on H.W. Bush. I have read a number of Meacham’s books including “American Lion” which won the 2009 Pulitzer Prize.

Meacham did extensive research for the book and was allowed access to Bush’s diaries and numerous interviews with family and friends. Needless to say he also had access to the presidential papers and other archive materials.

Bush 41 comes across as an ambitious and emotional man, which is different from the aloof and polished figure we normally see. Meacham also reveals him to be a witty observer of other people’s quirks. Bush 41 was raised in privilege but did service to the country in World War II and as an elected official. The book covers his life from birth to the current date. I found the last quarter of the book the most interesting.

The book is well written and meticulously researched. Meacham comes off neutral and lacking ideological fervor that allows him to paint a picture of Bush that is new. The book does have an affectionate feel for Bush, but Meacham has a judicious balanced approach to the material. The book also provides quite a bit of new information that makes the book well worth the read.

The book is long at 800 pages or 25 hours. Paul Michael does a good job narrating the book.

I did not vote for President George Herbert Walker Bush. I did have the pleasure of meeting him years ago. President Bush is as he appears. Kind, caring, sensitive and just plain old nice! He has integrity, honors his word and above all, he is a gentleman.

Held my attention the whole way through. Gave me a new appreciation for a president i already respected a lot. Came across like a real hagiography though.

Love the character theme the author chose and that he doesn't shy away from strengths and failures

George H.W. Bush

The way he describes his post presidential life.

President Bush has lived an amazing life spanning World War II, the Gulf War and the fall of communism. Through it all he has been a steady presence when it was needed. There are too few like him.

cannot say

The reminder of things that have been forgotten

an American voice

A time when when one could love a Republican president

all democrats and many republicans should listen to this book to remind themselves of a time when politics did not descend to comments on an opponents bathroom breaks

I loved this book and the performance. The one criticism I would level is that the author is a definite Bush apologist. Sometimes that helps you better understand Bush, but sometimes it's a little pandering. Overall it's one of my favorite books I've read this year.

I love all Meachum books. This one covers the life of an incredible individual who is part of an incredible family. Put your politics aside and get ready to learn how fortunate our country was to have him serve. I had reservations about him and the job he did. Those reservations are no more.