Review by Booklist Review
In possibly his final book, U.S. Senator McCain, with his longtime staff member and coauthor Salter, writes about his amazing life in public service. He recalls significant events, particularly from his 2008 presidential campaign to the Arab Spring, and profiles some of the incredible people he has encountered. Part memoir, part geopolitical analysis, part demonstration of McCain's belief in American ideals and values, this is a moving testament from a dedicated statesman. His stories of traveling overseas to visit war zones and unstable countries paint a comprehensive narrative of hopeful striving for freedom by oppressed peoples and the tyrants who abuse them. Likewise, stories of cooperation among lawmakers who disagree exemplify McCain's hope for a healthier polity at home, if we are willing to work for it. He also warns of the challenges America faces from abroad and on the domestic front if we are to maintain leadership in the wider world. This book is more than the musings of a politician at the sunset of his career. Though occasionally partisan in tone, it stresses bedrock American principles that transcend the party line. McCain may be the last of his kind, and his words and wisdom deserve our attention. This book will appeal to all reasonable, patriotic Americans, young and old, Republican and Democrat alike. A welcome and timely addition to all nonfiction collections.--James Pekoll Copyright 2018 Booklist
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
In his moving final memoir, written as he battles terminal brain cancer, Arizona senator McCain reflects on his career. Topics include his 2008 presidential campaign, key points in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, legislative battles around healthcare and immigration reform, today's fractious political climate, and American values. Known for his leadership on foreign policy issues, McCain shares his views on a range of geopolitical topics, including Vladimir Putin ("the clear and present danger... a murderer and a thug"), the Arab Spring, and President Obama's handling of the chemical weapons attacks in Syria ("a shockingly bad mistake"). Despite flashes of the "straight talk" for which McCain has become known, this book meanders into navel-gazing detail and sometimes skirts meaningful examination. McCain lists President Trump's moral and political failings, but hedges: "I don't know what to make of Trump's convictions," he writes, and "it's hard to know what to expect" from him. McCain is at his best when arguing that America is exceptional because of its "founding conviction" that all people deserve equal rights and because of "our conduct in the world"-the book's most powerful chapter is devoted to rejecting torture. Rather than a response to extraordinary times, this fine memoir reads more like a requiem of a long, patriotic life. (May) © Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.
