Insights into the man…

Subjective, anecdotal and very personal. That is the feeling I walk away from after reading this book. A variety of people – from the lowly ‘summer lads’ to the higher echelons of White House staff, to the family that surrounded him – were asked to share their thoughts, stories and feelings about a number of topics relating to GHWB. Loyalty, leadership, family. What did the 41st US president really feel about these things? How did he live them as a father, grandfather, husband as well as a leader of a vast nation?

An easy read, each snippet provided personal, and professional, insight into GHWB’s life. It was hard to separate the two as political colleagues would often become friends and shared both the world stage as well as the behind the moments. They painted a picture of someone who felt deeply about his work, his family and his word. Uber-positive, for sure, these were people who respected, if not loved, him. Even those who wrangled with him, had nothing but good things to say here.

I understand these stories may often be at odds with the actions and words of who he was as a political figure. Repeatedly, those who shared talked about his wisdom, his caring and his commitment to his wife and his family. What I appreciated about this book was that very personal glimpse into the man himself, and the (often lasting) impression he made on others.

A thought-provoking read, it has challenged me to learn more - to bridge the gap between these decidedly positive views of George Herbert Walker Bush with other, equally steadfast, negative ones.

Enjoyed reading the stories from so many different people in this book about Bush!

I did feel the book was a little boring at times though.

A very good read on a very good human. A bit dry, but it had to be to tell the story. Very informative and thought provoking.

I've read other books that are a tribute to US President George Bush, but this one is different. This focus is on leadership, which is something we should all be thinking about now.
I love reading the anecdotes, stories and more.
Reading and paying attention is more important than ever. It's also a good book that will help the reader understand the same in themselves.

Thank you to Twelve Books and Net Galley for a digital ARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

#GeorgeBush #Character #Leadership

Character Matters is a tribute book to former US President George Bush, focusing on the importance of character in leadership. It features testimonials from friends, family, and colleagues, sharing stories and insights gleaned from their interactions with Bush. The book's release is timed for the 2024 US presidential election, aiming to remind readers of the significance of character in choosing a leader.