The Art of Power

My Story as America's First Woman Speaker of the House

By: Nancy Pelosi

Narrated by: Nancy Pelosi

The most powerful woman in American political history tells the story of her transformation from housewife to House Speaker—how she became a master legislator, a key partner to presidents, and the most visible leader of the Trump resistance

At age forty-six, Nancy Pelosi, mother of five, asked her youngest daughter if she should run for Congress. Alexandra Pelosi answered: “Mother, get a life!” And so Nancy did, and what a life it has been.

In The Art of Power, Pelosi describes for the first time what it takes to make history—not only as the first woman to ascend to the most powerful legislative role in our nation, but to pass laws that would save lives and livelihoods, from the emergency rescue of the economy in 2008 to the transformation of health care. She describes the perseverance, persuasion, and respect for her members that it took to succeed, but also the joy of seeing America and the world change for the better.

Among the best-prepared and hardest working Speakers in history, Pelosi worked to find common ground, or stand her ground, with presidents from Bush to Biden.

Pelosi took positions that established her as a prophetic voice on the major moral issues of the day, warning early about the dangers of the Iraq War and of the Chinese government’s long record of misbehavior. This moral courage prepared her for the arrival of Trump, with whom she famously tangled, becoming a red-coated symbol of resistance to his tumultuous presidency. Pelosi gives us her personal account of January 6th, and her determined efforts to get the National Guard to the Capitol. Nearly two years later, violence and fury would erupt inside Pelosi’s own home when an intruder, demanding to see the Speaker, viciously attacked her beloved husband, Paul. Here, Pelosi shares that horrifying day and the traumatic aftermath for her and her family.

The woman who has been lauded by her opposition as the “most powerful Speaker” ever shows us why she is not afraid of a good fight. The Art of Power is about the fighting spirit that has always animated her, and the historic legacy that spirit has produced.

Critic reviews

"Listeners hear Nancy Pelosi describe herself as a dedicated patriot with an unwavering code of ethics demonstrated by years of focus on the American people, especially their children, and a fierce protection of the Constitution. As described in her own words, Pelosi’s tenacity spans decades of maneuvering through political ups and downs, especially as the first Lady Speaker of the House. Her political savvy shines through, and the listener cannot help but be inspired by her ability to strategize her way through complicated issues, bills, political quagmires, international and domestic intelligence, and dealing with those across the aisle and in the Executive Office. This is a remarkable historical account of an authentic politician who is dedicated to her country and its people."

I'll have to wait for vol 2.

It should be two or three times as long. I'm sure there are plenty more stories to tell.

Outstanding

Fascinating, important information that was news to me. This is an important roadmap for what a Congresswoman can be.

Great lessons in leadership

Loved this book. Speaker Pelosi has been a courageous and persistent warrior. I think as a female leader she has been held to a double standard. But she fights “for the children”. As she says in the final chapter “I have won nearly all the legislative battles I started.” She knows how to build consensus, does her homework, and is undeterred by those who throw hate. Especially good narrator!!!

For the Children

The Honorable Nancy Pelosi, America’s First Woman Speak of the House gives a behind the scenes look into her most consequential work as the leader of the people’s house. It’s in this book that you hear about the values that inspired her leadership and determination that merited her elevation into the history books as one the most effective Speakers in American history.

the behind the scene truths

I am so fortunate for Mrs. paloski to have shared her story with us . I have learned so much from listening to her experiences. she is a great woman and we all are privileged that she shared her divinity with us all. God bless her and her family.