Helen Thomas, who covered the administrations of ten presidents in a career spanning nearly sixty years, teams up with veteran journalist Craig Crawford to provide a witty, history-rich examination of what it takes to be a good president and lead our nation. With sharp observations and dozens of examples, Thomas and Crawford outline the qualities, attitudes, and political and personal choices that make for the most successful leaders . . . and the least. Calvin Coolidge, who hired the first professional speechwriter in the White House, illuminates the importance of choosing words wisely. William Howard Taft, notorious for being so fat he broke his White House bathtub, shows how not to cultivate a strong public image. John F. Kennedy, who could handle the press corps and their questions with aplomb, demonstrates how to establish a rapport with the press and open oneself up to the public. Ronald Reagan, who acknowledged the Iran- Contra affair in a television address, illustrates how telling hard truths can earn forgiveness and even public trust.

Part history lesson, part guide to the presidency, this entertaining and exceedingly edifying read highlights what presidents should aspire to and what every citizen should expect and demand from our leaders.