Leadership

Lessons from the Presidents for Turbulent Times

By: Doris Kearns Goodwin

Narrated by: Doris Kearns Goodwin, Richard Thomas, Jay O. Sanders, David Morse

Length: 18 hrs and 4 mins

Publisher's Summary

Penguin presents the audiobook edition of Leadership written and read by Doris Kearns Goodwin, with additional narration from Beau Bridges, David Morse, Jay O. Sanders and Richard Thomas. 

Are leaders born or made? Where does ambition come from? How does adversity affect the growth of leadership? Does the leader make the times or do the times make the leader? 

In Leadership, Goodwin draws upon four of the presidents she has studied - Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin D. Roosevelt and Lyndon B. Johnson - to show how they first recognised leadership qualities within themselves and were recognised as leaders by others. By looking back to their first entry into public life, when their paths were filled with confusion, hope and fear, we can share their struggles and follow their development into leaders. 

Leadership tells the story of how they all collided with dramatic reversals that disrupted their lives and threatened to forever shatter their ambitions. Nonetheless, they all emerged fitted to confront the contours and dilemmas of their times. 

No common pattern describes the trajectory of leadership. Although set apart in background, abilities and temperament, they shared a fierce ambition, a hunger to succeed beyond expectations. All four, at their best, were guided by a sense of moral purpose that led them at moments of great challenge to summon their talents to enlarge the opportunities and lives of others.

This seminal work provides a road map for aspiring and established leaders. In today's polarised world, these stories of authentic leadership in times of fracture and fear take on a singular urgency.

©2018 Doris Kearns Goodwin (P)2018 Penguin Audio

Critic Reviews

"Well-researched and well-written... Superb." (Professor Andrew Roberts, author of Churchill: Walking with Destiny)

 "A marvelous banquet with four great presidents who provide lessons for all. Pull up a chair." (Warren Buffett)

Remarkable story of people who shaped the History'

What a story! LBJs story is very touching and shows how human he is. However most sparkling character is Theodore Roosevelt. What an energetic soul!

Doris is one of the best living story teller, love how your masterly unfold these four men! American history is very fortunate to have you!

An excellent study

This is a wonderfully detailed examination of some great leaders in US history. Kearns’ study of the presidents is underpinned by her experience in the Johnson White House. This background gives her the ability to understand and explain the dilemmas and challenges faced by the four presidents in their early careers, before their election victories, and in office. I enjoyed this so much that I am going to buy a physical copy to keep as a reference.

Wonderful wonderful wonderful !!

Well researched and highly informative account for the leading presidential historian of our time. Compares and contrasts the lives and actions of four leading US presidents - two Republican and two Democrat. Would definitely recommend to anyone who is interested in leadership and high achievement.

Wow, emotional and powerful

Doris Kearns Goodwin has an excellent way with words. The third part of Abraham Lincoln's story made me cry with happiness and awe. Inspiring and illuminating book, recommended for all.

Smart and insightful

This book is essential in understanding what makes a true leader through the stories of great men and women who cared deeply about the people.