His Very Best

Jimmy Carter, a Life

760 pages

English language

Published Nov. 14, 2020 by Simon & Schuster, Limited.

ISBN:
978-1-5011-2548-5
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3 stars (2 reviews)

5 editions

Carter was way ahead of his time... we need his character in leaders now more than ever

5 stars

This was an interesting and enjoyable book. I was a child when Carter was president. I remember hearing about most of the big world events covered in this book but as a child did not pay much attention: civil rights issues, bussing, stagflation, the energy crisis, panama canal treaty, camp david, the Iranian revolution and hostage crisis, the Reagan Carter election. This book gaves incredible details of what was going on behind the scenes. Carter had exceptional character - and that probably was his undoing as he made enemies from other politicians (even in his own party) by avoiding the typical game of trading favors. As biography it was a great story of a kid growing up in rural georgia, to the Naval academy, to the governor and Presidency, and then years of incredible work. Carter refused to make easy money by doing speeches and appearances for pay.

Great Book …

Review of 'His Very Best' on 'Goodreads'

1 star

1-. What book did the rest of y'all read? I want my time back! I was super-psyched leading up to publication, and even more so after reading the prologue. I get not wanting to sugarcoat a historical figure's failings, but this goes above and beyond. In fact, I'd say there was more painting Carter as petty, vengeful, and overly demanding than there was describing his significant political successes (and failures) and humanitarian work (which is truly given short-shrift). That is, the 800 pages seem skewed toward Carter's personality and demeanor.

So, how about this? "Author's note: Jimmy Carter has always been a two-faced, racist, petty, vengeful, demanding so-and-so." Then, see if this puppy couldn't get cut down to around 200 pages. Better yet, just fill however many pages are actually necessary to describe the substance of Carter's political and humanitarian work, without making him sound like the devil incarnate.