My American Journey

Publisher's Summary

Colin Powell is the embodiment of the American dream. He was born in Harlem to immigrant parents from Jamaica. He knew the rough life of the streets. He overcame a barely average start at school. Then he joined the Army. The rest is history - including Vietnam, the Pentagon, Panama, and Desert Storm - but a history that until now has been known only on the surface. Here, for the first time, Colin Powell himself tells us how it happened, in a memoir distinguished by a heartfelt love of country and family, warm good humor, and a soldier's directness.

My American Journey is the powerful story of a life well lived and well told. It is also a view from the mountaintop of the political landscape of America. At a time when Americans feel disenchanted with their leaders, General Powell's passionate views on family, personal responsibility, and, in his own words, "the greatness of America and the opportunities it offers" inspire hope and present a blueprint for the future. An utterly absorbing account, it is history with a vision.

©2006 Colin Powell (P)2006 Random House, Inc.

Critic Reviews

"Eloquent." (Los Angeles Times Book Review)
"A great American success story...an endearing and well-written book." (The New York Times Book Review)
"The stirring, only-in-America story of one determined man's journey from the South Bronx to directing the mightiest of military forces....Fascinating." (The Washington Post Book World) "Profound and moving....Must reading for anyone who wants to reaffirm his faith in the promise of America." (The Wall Street Journal)
"A book that is much like its subject: articulate, confident, impressive, but unpretentious and witty....Whether you are a political junkie, a military buff, or just interested in a good story, My American Journey is a book well worth reading." (San Diego Union Tribune)
"Colin Powell's candid, introspective autobiography is a joy for all with an appetite for well-written political and social commentary." (The Detroit News)

Impressive

Enjoyed hearing Colin Powell himself tell his life story. He told it like it was - no fluff.

3 of 3 people found this review helpful

Deeply moved and inspired

This book has moved me and inspired me to do even more with what I have as a Citizen and Soldier. Colin Powell is the embodiment of an epic American tale, and a life transformed by God.

Executive Leadership Mentor Group

His story was well told and vivid. Even though I was not in the military his life and leadership lessons made an great impact with me, i definitely learned from him. i like the story on Humane Leadership values, when he lost his weapon. how many leaders have made a mistake.

Great Autobiography

Nicely done - brief, to-the-point and I believe a quite honest history of a leader who was in the right place at the right time. I took part in Desert Shield - Desert Storm, and I still believe - and more so now - that proper calls and sound leadership decisions were made. I look forward to following the General for some time in the future!

5 Stars 4 a 4 Star

This book was both inspiring and insightful! Thanks General for your sacrifice, service, and sharing your success.

great book

Excellent so many events I can relate and admire the book its truly good and inspiring

Nice, quick read if you're interested in Colin.

There were things I wanted to know about Colin as a man who is black in America, high ranking in the military and associated with the Republican party. I have a greater understanding of who he is. It's probably as in depth as any speech he would given to a lecture hall full of students so it's nice and it does the job if you're interested in who he is, it opens your eyes to how he came to love the military, the media's effect on perception of military engagements and what exactly it is that this guy does as he scales the ladder of the military career. It also mentions his view on running for President. I won't spoiler alert that. But you could also skip this read. By no means is this a must read.

A true leader

Would you consider the audio edition of My American Journey to be better than the print version?

Did not read the print version.

What other book might you compare My American Journey to and why?

This was an Autobiography. I have read several other autobiographies and enjoyed them all.

What does Colin Powell bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

You fell you are hearing a live lecture of a great man.

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

Yes

A great story

If you could sum up My American Journey in three words, what would they be?

Interesting, engaging, revealing

What does Colin Powell bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Hearing Colin Powell's voice makes the story more personal

If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

Growing up in America: how the boy next door ended up advising Presidents of the United States

I injoyed the book However

What did you love best about My American Journey?

The book was very informational however i wasnt that gripping.

If you’ve listened to books by Colin Powell before, how does this one compare?

I haven't but i will

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

I haven't but i will

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

no never the end i only read the book to get to the end

Any additional comments?

if you are researching his life this is the book for you with out a doubt however if your look for action turn to "Act of Valor Or Seal Team Six "because this book isn't for you

Over all i still found in enjoyment in the book

Beautiful story!

beautiful story about the life of a man who.never thought he was good at anything,but ended up becoming what everyone would love to be, an accomplished person !