Eisenhower

A Life

De: Paul Johnson

Narrado por: Jonathan Davis

Acclaimed historian Paul Johnson’s lively, succinct biography of Dwight D. Eisenhower explores how his legacy endures today. In the rousing style he’s famous for, celebrated historian Paul Johnson offers a fascinating biography of Dwight D. Eisenhower, focusing particularly on his years as a five-star general and his two terms as president of the United States.

Johnson chronicles Ike’s modest childhood in Kansas, his college years at West Point, and his rapid ascent through the military ranks, culminating in his appointment as supreme commander of the Allied Forces in Europe during World War II. Johnson then paints a rich portrait of Ike’s presidency, exploring his volatile relationship with Vice President Nixon, his abhorrence of isolationism, and his position on the cold war, McCarthyism, and the civil rights movement.

Many elements of Eisenhower’s presidency speak to American politics today, including his ability to balance the budget, his skill in managing an oppositional Congress, and his warnings about the military-industrial complex. This brief yet comprehensive portrait will appeal to biography lovers as well as to enthusiasts of presidential history and military history alike.

©2014 Paul Johnson (P)2014 Recorded Books

Not Unforgettable.

I recently finished Eisenhower, A Life by Paul Johnson. Going into it, I didn’t know much about Eisenhower, and unfortunately, I can’t say I learned much more after finishing. Listening to the book on Audible made it challenging to stay engaged and retain information. While I now have a general sense of Eisenhower’s historical significance, this biography didn’t quite deliver the depth and insight I’ve come to expect from other works in the genre. Overall, a decent read but not particularly memorable.

Quick and to the point!

What made the experience of listening to Eisenhower the most enjoyable?

I like how it stays to the major points and doesn't wonder away from it.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Eisenhower

Have you listened to any of Jonathan Davis’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

Not sure if I have listened to him before.

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

No

Any additional comments?

It is a quick down and dirty biography that covers the majors aspects of his life without any extra frill. A good book if you want a solid outline of Eisenhower's life.

They Don't Make them Like this Anymore

Any additional comments?

This is a good book. It's narration is appropriate and the length was just long enough to accomplish what the author set out to do: give a brief biographical sketch of the man who led the Allies to victory on D-Day and went on to become President of the United States. I did not know much about Eisenhower prior to my listening to this 4.5 hour book. The author, Paul Johnson, is an excellent historian, and I respect his work because he tends to be conservative, which I think is a good quality when reading and studying history. Listen to this if you want to know more about the man who set the tone for America in the 1950's and coined the term "Military-Industrial Complex." You'll be glad you did!

Insightful

Decent story of Ike’s full life. Easy and interesting 4 hour listen. If you have an afternoon it’s a good listen.

Biased

Book lacks details. Very high level. If you are looking for an unbiased biography, look elsewhere.