On Power

By: Robert A. Caro

Narrated by: Robert A. Caro

Length: 1 hr and 42 mins

Publisher's summary

From two-time Pulitzer Prize winner and two-time National Book Award winner Robert A. Caro: a short, penetrating reflection on the evolution and workings of political power - for good and for ill.

In On Power, an Audible exclusive, the legendary historian Robert A. Caro reflects on what drew him as a young journalist to study political power and what his half century of reporting on New York City urban planner Robert Moses and President Lyndon Johnson has taught him about the inner workings of government and democracy.

Adapted by the author from two recent speeches and filled with thoughtful lessons and personal moments, On Power goes behind the scenes in the author's decades-long quest to understand how power works, often in ways he could have never imagined.

Listening to On Power, narrated with emotion and humor by Caro in his unmistakable New York accent, is like having a private audience with the author often hailed as our greatest living historian. Longtime fans of Caro's books, as well as those seeking a more personal introduction to his life and work, will be treated to his trademark wit and revelatory insight.

But more than anything, On Power is a timely reminder for those who want to better understand how power and government work.

In Caro's words: "Why political power? Because it shapes all of our lives. It shapes your life in ways that you might never think about. Every time a young man goes to college on a federal education bill passed by Lyndon Johnson, that's political power. And so is a young man dying in Vietnam. Every time an elderly person is able to afford an MRI, that's Medicare. That's political power. It affects your life in all sorts of ways. My books are an attempt to explain this power.... Because the more America understands about political power, the better informed our votes will be, and then, hopefully, the better our democracy should be."

©2017 Robert A. Caro, Inc. (P)2017 Audible, Inc.

Must listen for any Caro fan

I love Robert Caro's books. Normally I'd encourage people to READ The Power Broker and the Johnson series, but this is a must LISTEN. Caro's old school New York accent really makes this piece of work come alive. Also , this is a great option for the person who doesn't want to invest the time in the Power Broker or Johnson series, but wants a very quick glance at what the writer was attempting to do with those books.

Moving

The stories of the lives of the poor that Caro took the time to track down are poignant. This man exudes humanity and compassion. His telling of his life story moved me deeply.

Cool after reading his Books

You Understand more about how and why he wrote his other books on lBJ and New York power broker

How the 99% can understand the 1%

Stop whining and get informed so you can do something about it. Only when motives are clear can political action be effective.

Good to remember

It’s good to know that we once had a president who could get something positive done. But these two stories are kind of a”warts and all”. Two men who had impressive records but did not always use their power for good results. Well worth a listen.

worth listening to. sound and editing mistakes.

if you read the series, and the power broker, this is an interesting author insight. doesn't sound like anyone listened to it before publishing it though. audio levels carry and there are repeated sentences.

Good short story

This is basically a short summary of work/life and other than monotone performance is unique insight into true power.

Entrancing

Always good in interviews, Robert Caro is in fine form reminiscing about his two amazing biographical works. A wonderful 105 minutes.

History lovers unite!

So informative. I’ve heard the name of Robert Moses before; but never new the story behind the msn. And the absolute power he wielded in NY. Amazing.
Live history and this book does not disappoint
Plus, the author narrated his book. Always an A+ in my book!

A Powerful Writer and Storyteller

This Author writes in a simple clear way that allows your mind to absorb the unbelievable, complex truths his research has discovered. This book makes me want to read more of Robert Caro’s work. He shows you the real Power that hides in the shadows of history. Great book!